Time in Range in Relation to All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study

Extended-Release Versus Immediate-Release Triamcinolone Acetonide in Patients Who Have Knee Osteoarthritis and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Intra-articular corticosteroid injections may cause hyperglycemia (glucose level >180 mg/dL). In a phase 2 study of 33 patients who had osteoarthritis of the knee and type 2 diabetes mellitus, triamcinolone acetonide extended-release (TA-ER) was associated with minimal glycemic control disruption compared with triamcinolone acetonide immediate-release (TA-IR). This post hoc analysis characterizes the clinical relevance of these results.

METHODS

Patients who had symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee for ≥6 months, type 2 diabetes mellitus for ≥1 year, and hemoglobin A1c ≥6.5 and ≤9.0% were randomized to receive an intra-articular injection of either TA-ER or TA-IR. Changes in continuous glucose monitor daily glucose level, percentage of time in or above the target glucose range (>70 to 180 mg/dL), time to glucose level 250 mg/dL and maximum glucose level >250 mg/dL, and glycemic variability were evaluated.

RESULTS

Across postinjection days 1 to 3, the TA-ER group (n = 18) had a lower median change from baseline in maximum glucose level (92.3 versus 169.1 mg/dL), a reduced percentage of time with a glucose level >250 mg/dL (12 versus 26%), a smaller proportion of patients who had a maximum glucose level >250 mg/dL (50 versus 93%), and a greater percentage of time in the target glucose range (62 versus 48%) versus the TA-IR group (n = 15). There was less glycemic variability and lower glucose spikes in the TA-ER versus TA-IR group. Median times to glucose level 250 mg/dL (44 versus 6 hours) and maximum glucose level (34 versus 13 hours) were significantly longer in the TA-ER versus TA-IR group.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of TA-ER was associated with a clinically meaningful reduction in hyperglycemia versus TA-IR.

Impact of Continuous Glucose Monitoring and its Glucometrics in Clinical Practice in Spain and Future Perspectives: A Narrative Review

INTRODUCTION

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices allow for 24-h real-time measurement of interstitial glucose levels and have changed the interaction between people with diabetes and their health care providers. The large amount of data generated by CGM can be analyzed and evaluated using a set of standardized parameters, collectively named glucometrics. This review aims to provide a summary of the existing evidence on the use of glucometrics data and its impact on clinical practice based on published studies involving adults and children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Spain.

METHODS

The PubMed and MEDES (Spanish Medical literature) databases were searched covering the years 2018-2022 and including clinical and observational studies, consensus guidelines, and meta-analyses on CGM and glucometrics conducted in Spain.

RESULTS

A total of 16 observational studies were found on the use of CGM in Spain, which have shown that cases of severe hypoglycemia in children with T1D were greatly reduced after the introduction of CGM, resulting in a significant reduction in costs. Real-world data from Spain shows that CGM is associated with improved glycemic markers (increased time in range, reduced time below and above range, and glycemic variability), and that there is a relationship between glycemic variability and hypoglycemia. Also, CGM and analysis of glucometrics proved highly useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. New glucometrics, such as the glycemic risk index, or new mathematical approaches to the analysis of CGM-derived glucose data, such as "glucodensities," could help patients to achieve better glycemic control in the future.

CONCLUSION

By using glucometrics in clinical practice, clinicians can better assess glycemic control and a patient's individual response to treatment.

Potential Benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Predicting Vascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes: A Rapid Review of Primary Research

(1) Background: Chronic hyperglycaemia is a cause of vascular damage and other adverse clinical outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Emerging evidence suggests a significant and independent role for glycaemic variability (GV) in contributing to those outcomes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides valuable insights into GV. Unlike in type 1 diabetes mellitus, the use of CGM-derived GV indices has not been widely adopted in the management of T2DM due to the limited evidence of their effectiveness in predicting clinical outcomes. This study aimed to explore the associations between GV metrics and short- or long-term vascular and clinical complications in T2DM. (2) Methods: A rapid literature review was conducted using the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and Scopus databases to seek high-level evidence. Lower-quality studies such as cross-sectional studies were excluded, but their content was reviewed. (3) Results: Six studies (five prospective cohort studies and one clinical trial) reported associations between GV indices (coefficient of variation (CV), standard deviation (SD), Mean Amplitude of Glycaemic Excursions (MAGE), Time in Range (TIR), Time Above Range (TAR), and Time Below Range (TBR)), and clinical complications. However, since most evidence came from moderate to low-quality studies, the results should be interpreted with caution. (4) Conclusions: Limited but significant evidence suggests that GV indices may predict clinical compilations in T2DM both in the short term and long term. There is a need for longitudinal studies in larger and more diverse populations, longer follow-ups, and the use of numerous CGM-derived GV indices while collecting information about all microvascular and macrovascular complications.

Glycemic Risk Index in a Cohort of Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Stratified by the Coefficient of Variation: A Real-Life Study

Objective: To analyze the Glycemic Risk Index (GRI) and assess their possible differences according to coefficient of variation (CV) in a cohort of real-life type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) patient users of intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM). Patients and Methods: In total, 447 adult users of isCGM with an adherence ≥70% were included in a cross-sectional study. GRI was calculated with its hypoglycemia (CHypo) and hyperglycemia (CHyper) components. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the factors associated with GRI. Results: Mean age was 44.6 years (standard deviation [SD] 13.7), 57.7% being male; age of DM onset was 24.5 years (SD 14.3) and time of evolution was 20.6 years (SD 12.3). In patients with CV >36% (52.8%) versus CV ≤36% (47.2%), differences were observed in relation to GRI (18.8% [SD 1.9]; P < 0.001), CHypo (2.9% [SD 0.3]; P < 0.001), CHyper (6.3% [SD 1.4]; P < 0.001), and all classical glucometric parameters except time above range level 1. The variables that were independently associated with GRI in patient with CV >36% were time in range (TIR) (β = -1.49; confidence interval [CI:] 95% -1.63 to -1.37; P < 0.001), glucose management indicator (GMI) (β = -7.22; CI: 95% -9.53 to -4.91; P < 0.001), and CV (β = 0.85; CI: 95% 0.69 to 1.02; P < 0.001). However, in patients with CV ≤36%, the variables were age (β = 0.15; CI: 95% 0.03 to 0.28; P = 0.019), age of onset (β = -0.15; CI: 95% -0.28 to -0.02; P = 0.023), TIR (β = -1.35; CI: 95% -1.46 to -1.23; P < 0.001), GMI (β = -6.67; CI: 95% -9.18 to -4.15; P < 0.001), and CV (β = 0.33; CI: 95% 0.11 to 0.56; P = 0.004). Conclusions: In this study, the factors independently associated with metabolic control according to GRI are modified by glycemic variability.

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring-guided glucose management in inpatients with diabetes receiving short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion: a randomized clinical trial

Background

The use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) technology remains largely investigational in the hospital setting. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rtCGM in inpatients with diabetes who were treated with short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII).

Methods

In this randomized, parallel controlled trial conducted on the endocrinology wards in a tertiary hospital located in Shanghai, adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who required short-term CSII during hospitalization were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either rtCGM-based glucose monitoring and management program or point-of-care (POC) standard of care (8 times/day) with blinded CGM. Primary outcome measure was the difference in the percentage of time within the target glucose range of 3.9-10 mmol/L (TIR, %). This study was registered at www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2300068933).

Findings

Among the 475 randomized participants (237 in the rtCGM group and 238 in the POC group), the mean age of was 60 ± 13 years, and the mean baseline glycated hemoglobin level was 9.4 ± 1.8%. The CGM-recorded mean TIR was 71.1 ± 15.8% in the rtCGM group and 62.9 ± 18.9% in the POC group, with a mean difference of 8.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.1-11.4%, P < 0.001). The mean time above range >10 mmol/L was significantly lower in the rtCGM group than in the POC group (28.3 ± 15.8% vs. 36.6 ± 19.0%, P < 0.001), whereas there was no significant between-group difference in the time below range <3.9 mmol/L (P = 0.11). Moreover, the time to reach target glucose was significantly shorter in the rtCGM group than in the POC group (2.0 [1.0-4.0] days vs. 4.0 [2.0-5.0] days, P < 0.001). There were no serious adverse events in both groups.

Interpretation

In patients with diabetes who received short-term CSII during hospitalization, the rtCGM program resulted in better glucose control than the POC standard of care, without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.

Funding

The Program of Shanghai Academic Research Leader (22XD1402300), Shanghai Oriental Talent Program (Youth Project) (No. NA), the Shanghai "Rising Stars of Medical Talent" Youth Development Program-Outstanding Youth Medical Talents (SHWSRS(2021)_099), and the Shanghai Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases (2022ZZ01002).

Continuous glucose monitoring for the routine care of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Although continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are now considered the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus, the uptake among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been slower and is focused on those receiving intensive insulin therapy. However, increasing evidence now supports the inclusion of CGM in the routine care of people with T2DM who are on basal insulin-only regimens or are managed with other medications. Expanding CGM to these groups could minimize hypoglycaemia while allowing efficient adaptation and escalation of therapies. Increasing evidence from randomized controlled trials and observational studies indicates that CGM is of clinical value in people with T2DM on non-intensive treatment regimens. If further studies confirm this finding, CGM could soon become a part of routine care for T2DM. In this Perspective we explore the potential benefits of widening the application of CGM in T2DM, along with the challenges that must be overcome for the evidence-based benefits of this technology to be delivered for all people with T2DM.

Associations between time in range and insulin secretory capacity in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes

Impaired insulin secretory capacity is associated with high glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, there are no existing reports on the association between insulin secretory capacity and time in range (TIR). This retrospective study involved 330 T2DM admitted for diabetes education who underwent intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) and had their fasting serum C-peptide immunoreactivity (S-CPR) measured within 5 days of admission. The baseline characteristics were as follows: age, 60.2 years; glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), 9.2%; S-CPR, 2.2 ng/mL; S-CPR index (S-CPR [ng/mL]/fasting plasma glucose [mg/dL] × 100), 1.6; and TIR, 60.3%. TIR correlated significantly with the S-CPR index, which was confirmed by multivariate analysis that included various factors such as HbA1c. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that 1.88 was the optimal S-CPR index level to predict TIR ≥ 70%. In addition to HbA1c and biguanide use, the S-CPR index was a significant factor associated with TIR > 70%. S-CPR index values of ≥ 1.88 also correlated significantly with TIR > 70%. In conclusion, insulin secretory capacity is associated with TIR in Japanese T2DM, suggesting that the S-CPR index might be a potentially useful biomarker insulin secretory capacity, in association with TIR.Trial registration UMIN0000254333.

Associations Between HbA1c and Glucose Time in Range Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Type 1 Diabetes: Cross-Sectional Population-Based Study

INTRODUCTION

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) introduces novel indicators of glycemic control.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study, based on the Swedish National Diabetes Register, examines 27,980 adults with type 1 diabetes. It explores the relationships between HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) and various CGM-derived metrics, including TIR (time in range, representing the percentage of time within the range of 4-10 mmol/l for 2 weeks), TAR (time above range), TBR (time below range), mean glucose, standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation (CV). Pearson correlation coefficients and linear regression models were utilized for estimation.

RESULTS

The analysis included 46% women, 30% on insulin pump, 7% with previous coronary heart disease and 64% with retinopathy. Mean ± SD values were age 48 ± 18 years, diabetes duration 25 ± 16 years, HbA1c 58.8 ± 12.8 mmol/mol, TIR 58.8 ± 19.0%, TAR 36.3 ± 20.0%, TBR 4.7 ± 5.4%, mean sensor glucose 9.2 ± 2.0 mmol/l, SD 3.3 ± 1.0 mmol/l, and CV 36 ± 7%. The overall association between HbA1c and TIR was - 0.71 (Pearson's r), with R2 0.51 in crude linear regression and 0.57 in an adjusted model. R2 values between HbA1c and CGM mean glucose were 0.605 (unadjusted) 0.619 (adjusted) and TAR (unadjusted 0.554 and fully adjusted 0.568, respectively), while fully adjusted R2 values were 0.458, 0.175 and 0.101 between HbA1c and CGM SD, CGM CV and TBR, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This descriptive study demonstrates that the degree of association between HbA1c and new and readily available CGM-derived metrics, i.e., time in range (TIR), time above range (TAR), and CGM mean glucose, is robust in assessing the management of individuals with type 1 diabetes in clinical settings. Metrics from CGM that pertain to variability and hypoglycemia exhibit only weak correlations with HbA1c.

Research progress on the association between glycemic variability index derived from CGM and cardiovascular disease complications

Currently, glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) has been widely used to assess the glycemic control of patients with diabetes. However, HbA1c has certain limitations in describing both short-term and long-term glycemic control. To more accurately evaluate the glycemic control of diabetes patients, the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology has emerged. CGM technology can provide robust data on short-term glycemic control and introduce new monitoring parameters such as time in range, time above range, and time below range as indicators of glycemic fluctuation. These indicators are used to describe the changes in glycemic control after interventions in clinical research or treatment modifications in diabetes patient care. Recent studies both domestically and internationally have shown that these indicators are not only associated with microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus but also closely related to cardiovascular disease complications and prognosis. Therefore, this article aims to comprehensively review the association between CGM-based glycemic parameters and cardiovascular disease complications by analyzing a large number of domestic and international literature. The purpose is to provide scientific evidence and guidance for the standardized application of these indicators in clinical practice, in order to better evaluate the glycemic control of diabetes patients and prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular disease complications. This research will contribute to improving the quality of life for diabetes patients and provide important references for clinical decision-making.

Increased glycemic variability results in abnormal differentiation of T cell subpopulation in type 2 diabetes patients

AIMS

We aimed to investigate the association between glycemic variability (GV) and the abnormal differentiation of T-cell subpopulations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

In total, 108 hospitalized patients with T2DM were enrolled and divided into two subgroups (normal glycemic excursion (NGE) and high glycemic excursion (HGE)) according to their mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE) level. The MAGE was evaluated via continuous glucose monitoring for 72 h consecutively. Flow cytometry was used to determine the proportions of T cell subpopulations.

RESULTS

The T helper (Th) 1 cell/Th2 cell ratio was significantly higher, and the proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) was significantly lower in the NGE group than in the HGE group (all P < 0.05). After fully adjusting for confounders, the MAGE was positively associated with the Th1 cell/Th2 cell ratio (β = 0.370; P = 0.009) and negatively associated with the proportion of Tregs (β = -0.554; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The MAGE was an independent risk factor for abnormally high Th1 cell/Th2 cell ratio and proportion of Tregs. Abnormal differentiation of T cell subpopulations induced by GV may impair β-cell function, aggravate insulin resistance, and contribute to the development of diabetic complications.

Chinese Guidelines for Medical Nutrition Therapy for Patients with Diabetes (2022 Edition)

Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is the foundation of the comprehensive treatment of patients with diabetes. In 2010, the Chinese Clinical Nutritionist Center of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association developed the first Chinese guideline on MNT for patients with diabetes, and it was updated in 2015. Since then, new evidence has emerged in the field of MNT and metabolic therapy in patients with diabetes. The Nutrition and Metabolic Management Branch of the China International Exchange and Promotive Association for Medical and Health Care organized a team of experts from related institutions, including the Clinical Nutrition Branch of the Chinese Nutrition Society, Chinese Diabetes Society, Chinese Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutri-tion, and Chinese Clinical Nutritionist Center of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association. Their task was to develop the Chinese Guidelines of Medical Nutrition Therapy in Diabetes (2022 Edition) in accordance with the requirements of the Guidelines for the Formulation/Revision of Clinical Guidelines in China (2022 Edition) by combining the questions raised and evidence gathered in clinical practices in China, to guide and standardize the clinical MNT.

The complexity of glucose time series is associated with short- and long-term mortality in critically ill adults: a multi-center, prospective, observational study

BACKGROUND

The wealth of data taken from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) remains to be fully used. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between a promising new CGM metric, complexity of glucose time series index (CGI), and mortality in critically ill patients.

METHODS

A total of 293 patients admitted to mixed medical/surgical intensive care units from 5 medical centers in Shanghai were prospectively included between May 2020 and November 2021. CGI was assessed using intermittently scanned CGM, with a median monitoring period of 12.0 days. Outcome measures included short- and long-term mortality.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 1.7 years, a total of 139 (47.4%) deaths were identified, of which 73 (24.9%) occurred within the first 30 days after ICU admission, and 103 (35.2%) within 90 days. The multivariable-adjusted HRs for 30-day mortality across ascending tertiles of CGI were 1.00 (reference), 0.68 (95% CI 0.38-1.22) and 0.36 (95% CI 0.19-0.70), respectively. For per 1-SD increase in CGI, the risk of 30-day mortality was decreased by 51% (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.35-0.69). Further adjustment for HbA1c, mean glucose during hospitalization and glucose variability partially attenuated these associations, although the link between CGI and 30-day mortality remained significant (per 1-SD increase: HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.40-0.83). Similar results were observed when 90-day mortality was considered as the outcome. Furthermore, CGI was also significantly and independently associated with long-term mortality (per 1-SD increase: HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.61-0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

In critically ill patients, CGI is significantly associated with short- and long-term mortality.

Association of Aldosterone, Renin, and Aldosterone to Renin Ratio with Metabolic Profile in Primary Aldosteronism

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the glycometabolism, fat mass, and lean mass in primary aldosteronism (PA) during disease progression.

Patients and Methods

Patients diagnosed with PA and healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. A flash glucose monitoring system (FGMS) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) were used to measure glucose variability and glucose target rate along with fat mass and lean mass. Comparative analysis of FGMS- or DEXA-derived parameters along with correlation analyses between these parameters and PA progression were performed.

Results

Increased glucose variability and poor glucose target rate, along with an increased proportion of truncal fat mass, and decreased proportion of appendicular lean mass, were identified in PA group compared to those in HCs. Plasma aldosterone concentration was positively correlated with glucose variability and poor glucose target rate. Plasma renin concentration was positively correlated with the proportion of truncal fat mass and lean mass, and negatively correlated with the proportion of appendicular fat mass. Aldosterone-to-renin ratio was negatively correlated with the proportion of truncal fat mass and lean mass, and positively correlated with the proportion of appendicular fat mass.

Conclusion

Patients with PA presented significant differences in glycometabolism, fat mass, and lean mass compared with HCs, and these alterations correlated with PA progression.

Correlation Between Blood Urea Nitrogen and Short- and Long-Term Glycemic Variability in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Were hospitalized:A Retrospective Study

Objective

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by insulin resistance and progressively impaired insulin secretion resulting in dynamic fluctuations in glucose levels.High blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels have been linked to decreased insulin sensitivity, suppressed insulin synthesis and increased risk of incident diabetes mellitus in humans as well as insulin use in patients with T2DM.This study characterize the association between BUN levels and short-term and long-term glycemic variability(GV) in the elderly patients with T2DM who were hospitalized.

Methods

A total of 927 elderly patients with T2DM were included in the study. The short-term GV was quantified using parameters such as standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), time in range (TIR), and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), based on multi-point fingertip blood glucose monitoring. The long-term GV was quantified using parameters such as SD, CV, variation independent of the mean (VIM), and average successive variability (ARV), based on fasting blood glucose(FPG). The relationship between BUN levels and short-term and long-term GV in elderly T2DM who were hospitalized was explored using methods such as Spearman correlation coefficient, linear regression analysis, logistic regression analysis, and interaction tests.

Results

In elderly patients with T2DM were hospitalized, there is a significant correlation between BUN levels and both short-term and long-term GV. BUN is negatively correlated with the GV parameter TIR (r=-0.12, P=0.000), and positively correlated with SD (r=0.12, P=0.000), CV (r=0.07, P=0.026), MAGE (r=0.11, P=0.001), FPG-SD (r=0.08, P=0.013), and FPG-CV (r=0.08, P=0.014).Furthermore, the association remains consistent across different age, gender, BMI, and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) subgroups (P interaction > 0.05).

Conclusion

In elderly patients with T2DM were hospitalized, BUN levels were positively associated with GV.Therefore, monitoring BUN levels were beneficial in assessing the degree of GV.

Association between glycemia risk index and arterial stiffness in type 2 diabetes

AIM

This study aims to investigate the association of glycemia risk index (GRI), a novel composite metric derived from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), with arterial stiffness in patients with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 342 adults with type 2 diabetes were enrolled between April and June 2023 from 11 communities in Shanghai, China. Medical examinations, including measurements of anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, and venous blood samples were conducted. Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) was examined to evaluate arterial stiffness. All the participants underwent a 14 day CGM recording and GRI was calculated from the CGM data.

RESULTS

The mean age was 70.3 ± 6.8 years, and 162 (47.4%) were male. Participants with a higher baPWV had significantly higher levels of GRI and hyperglycemia component (both P for trend < 0.05). Linear regression revealed the significant positive linear associations of the GRI with baPWV in unadjusted or adjusted models (All P < 0.05). In the multivariable logistic analysis, each increase in the GRI quartile was associated with a 1.30-fold (95% CI 1.01-1.68, P for trend < 0.05) higher prevalence of increased arterial stiffness after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, diabetes duration, current smoking status, blood pressure, and lipid profile. Subgroup analyses showed that the association between the GRI quartiles and increased arterial stiffness was stronger among participants with a diabetes duration ≥15 years (P for interaction = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

Glycemia risk index assessed by continuous glucose monitoring is associated with increased arterial stiffness in type 2 diabetes.

Higher Derived Time in Range With IDegLira Versus Insulin Glargine U100 in People With Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Derived time in range (dTIR), calculated from self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG-dTIR) profiles, has demonstrated correlation with risk of cardiovascular and microvascular complications. This post hoc analysis of the DUAL V and DUAL VIII trials aimed to compare dTIR with an insulin degludec/liraglutide fixed-ratio combination (IDegLira) versus insulin glargine 100 units/mL (glargine U100) in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine-point SMBG profiles were taken more than 24 hours at baseline and end of trial (EOT: 26 weeks [DUAL V] and 104 weeks [DUAL VIII]) and used to derive the percentage of readings within target range (70-180 mg/dL). Estimated treatment differences (ETDs, IDegLira-glargine U100) were analyzed using analysis of covariance, with treatment as fixed effects and baseline response as a covariate.

RESULTS

ETDs for change from baseline to EOT in dTIR were significantly greater with IDegLira versus glargine U100 in DUAL V (4.18%, P = .027) and DUAL VIII (5.17%, P = .001). The proportions of people achieving ≥70% dTIR at EOT with IDegLira and glargine U100, respectively, were 62% and 60% in DUAL V (P = .7541), and 50% and 26% in DUAL VIII (P < .0001). The proportion achieving a ≥5% increase in dTIR from baseline to EOT with IDegLira and glargine U100 was 63% in both groups in DUAL V (P = .9043), and 44% and 25%, respectively, in DUAL VIII (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

IDegLira was associated with significantly greater increases in dTIR versus basal insulin alone in people with T2D.

TRIAL ID(S)

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01952145 (DUAL V); ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02501161 (DUAL VIII).

Comparison of 10 × 1-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus 4 × 4-minute HIIT on glucose control and variability in females with type 2 diabetes

Two high-intensity interval training (HIIT) regimens are often used in research and clinical settings. Yet, there has been no direct comparison to determine if one can improve glucose control and variability to a greater extent in individuals living with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Fourteen older females with T2D participated in a semi-randomized control trial where HIIT10 (10 × 1-min intervals at 90% heart rate max; HRmax) and HIIT4 (4 × 4-min intervals at 90% of HRmax) were compared to a control condition (CON; no exercise). Continuous glucose monitoring was used to assess glucose control and variability over 24 h after each condition. Both HIIT10 (-2.1 ± 1.1 mmol/L) and HIIT4 (-2.1 ± 1.3 mmol/L) acutely lowered glucose compared to CON (-0.7 ± 0.8 mmol/L; p = 0.001), with no difference between exercise conditions. This glucose-lowering effect did not persist over the 24-h post-exercise period, as both mean glucose (p = 0.751) and glucose variability (p = 0.168) were not significantly different among conditions. However, exploratory analyses focusing on individuals with less optimal glucose control (above median 24-h mean glucose in the CON condition; n = 7) revealed that 24-h mean glucose (7.4 [7.14-8.92] vs. 8.4 [7.5-9.9] mmol/L; p = 0.048), glucose variability (p = 0.010), and peak glucose (p = 0.048) were lower following HIIT10 compared to CON, while HIIT4 reduced time spent in moderate hyperglycemia compared to CON (p = 0.023). Both HIIT10 and HIIT4 acutely lower glycemia, but the effect does not persist over 24 h. However, in individuals with worse glucose control, HIIT10 may improve mean 24-h glucose and glycemic variability, while HIIT4 may reduce time spent in moderate hyperglycemia.

Comparative effects of fixed-dose mitiglinide/voglibose combination and glimepiride on vascular endothelial function and glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of mitiglinide/voglibose with those of glimepiride on glycemic variability and vascular endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was a multicenter, open-label, randomized, crossover study. Hospitalized patients received either mitiglinide/voglibose (three times daily administration of 10 mg mitiglinide and 0.2 mg voglibose) or glimepiride (once-daily 2 mg) in random order, each for 5 days. The reactive hyperemia index (RHI) and the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE) were measured as co-primary endpoints using reactive hyperemia peripheral arterial tonometry and continuous glucose monitoring.

RESULTS

The analysis included 30 patients (15 in each group). The RHI was 1.670 ± 0.369 during treatment with mitiglinide/voglibose and 1.716 ± 0.492 during treatment with glimepiride, with no significant difference between the two. MAGE was significantly lower in the mitiglinide/voglibose group (47.6 ± 18.5 mg/dL) than in the glimepiride group (100.6 ± 32.2 mg/dL). Although the mean blood glucose levels over the entire 24 h period were comparable between the two groups, the use of mitiglinide/voglibose was associated with a lower standard deviation of mean glucose, coefficient of variation, and mean postprandial glucose excursion compared with glimepiride. The time below range (<70 mg/dL) and the time above range (>180, >200, and 250 mg/dL) were lower in the mitiglinide/voglibose group, while the time in range (70-180 mg/dL) was higher.

CONCLUSIONS

In our short-duration randomized crossover study, although not impacting vascular endothelial function, mitiglinide/voglibose demonstrated potential benefits in reducing glycemic variability, postprandial hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Machine Learning and Deep Learning Models for Nocturnal High- and Low-Glucose Prediction in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Glucose management at night is a major challenge for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), especially for those managed with multiple daily injections (MDIs). In this study, we developed machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models to predict nocturnal glucose within the target range (3.9-10 mmol/L), above the target range, and below the target range in subjects with T1D managed with MDIs. The models were trained and tested on continuous glucose monitoring data obtained from 380 subjects with T1D. Two DL algorithms-multi-layer perceptron (MLP) and a convolutional neural network (CNN)-as well as two classic ML algorithms, random forest (RF) and gradient boosting trees (GBTs), were applied. The resulting models based on the DL and ML algorithms demonstrated high and similar accuracy in predicting target glucose (F1 metric: 96-98%) and above-target glucose (F1: 93-97%) within a 30 min prediction horizon. Model performance was poorer when predicting low glucose (F1: 80-86%). MLP provided the highest accuracy in low-glucose prediction. The results indicate that both DL (MLP, CNN) and ML (RF, GBTs) algorithms operating CGM data can be used for the simultaneous prediction of nocturnal glucose values within the target, above-target, and below-target ranges in people with T1D managed with MDIs.

CVOT Summit Report 2023: new cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic outcomes

The 9th Cardiovascular Outcome Trial (CVOT) Summit: Congress on Cardiovascular, Kidney, and Metabolic Outcomes was held virtually on November 30-December 1, 2023. This reference congress served as a platform for in-depth discussions and exchange on recently completed outcomes trials including dapagliflozin (DAPA-MI), semaglutide (SELECT and STEP-HFpEF) and bempedoic acid (CLEAR Outcomes), and the advances they represent in reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), improving metabolic outcomes, and treating obesity-related heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). A broad audience of endocrinologists, diabetologists, cardiologists, nephrologists and primary care physicians participated in online discussions on guideline updates for the management of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in diabetes, heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD); advances in the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its comorbidities; advances in the management of CKD with SGLT2 inhibitors and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (nsMRAs); and advances in the treatment of obesity with GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists. The association of diabetes and obesity with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH; metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, MASH) and cancer and possible treatments for these complications were also explored. It is generally assumed that treatment of chronic diseases is equally effective for all patients. However, as discussed at the Summit, this assumption may not be true. Therefore, it is important to enroll patients from diverse racial and ethnic groups in clinical trials and to analyze patient-reported outcomes to assess treatment efficacy, and to develop innovative approaches to tailor medications to those who benefit most with minimal side effects. Other keys to a successful management of diabetes and comorbidities, including dementia, entail the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology and the implementation of appropriate patient-physician communication strategies. The 10th Cardiovascular Outcome Trial Summit will be held virtually on December 5-6, 2024 ( http://www.cvot.org ).

Determination of Time in Range Associated With HbA1c ≤7% in a Prospective Cohort of Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Three Months

INTRODUCTION

Finding a goal of time in range (%TIR) that defines good glycemic control is necessary. Previous retrospective studies suggest good concordance between HbA1c ≤7% with a TIR >70%; however, the studies that included the largest number of patients used blood glucose measurement data with a follow-up time of less than 90 days. This study defined the TIR value that best discriminates HbA1c ≤7%.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study of diagnostic tests based on a cohort of patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) treated with a hybrid closed loop (HCL) followed for three months. The ability of %TIR to distinguish patients with HbA1c ≤7% was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. We determined the %TIR cutoff point with the best operating characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 118 patients were included (58.1% women, 47% overweight or obese, and 33% with high glycemic variability). A moderate negative correlation (R = -.54, P < .001) was found between %TIR and HbA1c. The discrimination ability was moderate, with an area under the curve of 0.7485 (95% confidence interval = 0.6608-0.8363). The cutoff point that best predicted HbA1c ≤7% was %TIR ≥75.5 (sensitivity 70%, specificity 67%). The findings were similar among those with a coefficient of variation (CV%) ≥36%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that the %TIR adequately identifies patients with HbA1c ≤7%. A target of TIR ≥75%, rather than the currently recommended TIR ≥70%, may be a more suitable value for optimal glycemic control.

Is It Time to Move Beyond TIR to TITR? Real-World Data from Over 20,000 Users of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

The growing use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been supported by expert consensus and clinical guidelines on glycemic management in diabetes with time in range (TIR 70-180 mg/dL) representing a key CGM-derived glucose metric. Time in tight range (TITR) has also been proposed for clinical use, spanning largely normal glucose levels of 70-140 mg/dL. However, keeping such narrow glucose ranges can be challenging, and understanding the factors modulating TITR can help achieve these tight glycemic targets. Our real-life study aimed to evaluate the relationship between average glucose (AG) and TIR/TITR in a large cohort (n = 22,006) of CGM users, divided into four groups: self-identified as having type 1 diabetes (T1D) treated with insulin using multiple daily injections (MDI) or pumps; type 2 diabetes (T2D) on MDI or insulin pumps; T2D on basal insulin only; and T2D not on insulin treatment. The T2D groups, regardless of treatment type, displayed the highest TIR and TITR values, associated with lowest glycemic variability measured as glucose coefficient of variation (CV; 23-30%). The T1D group showed the lowest TIR and TITR, associated with the highest CVs (36-38%). Overall, higher CV was associated with lower TIR and TITR for AG values below 180 and 140 mg/dL, respectively, with the reverse holding true for AG values above these thresholds. The discordance between AG and TIR/TITR was less pronounced in T2D compared with T1D, attributed to lower CV in the former group. It was also observed that TITR has advantages over TIR for assessing glycemia status and progress toward more stringent A1C, particularly when approaching normal glucose levels. The data detail how CV affects the AG relationship with TIR/TITR, which has implications for CGM interpretation. In many instances TITR, rather than TIR, may be preferable to employ once AG falls below 140 mg/dL and near-normal glucose levels are required clinically.

You may delay, but time will not. Beta cells lost are never found again: a case for timely initiation of basal insulin in type 2 diabetes

Since its first use just over a century ago, insulin treatment has evolved dramatically, such that the molecules are physiologic in nature, and treatment can now closely resemble the natural hormone response over 24 hours. Newer, longer-acting basal insulin analogs have provided insulin therapies with improved characteristics and, therefore, ease of use, and can readily be incorporated as part of routine treatment for type 2 diabetes (T2D), but evidence suggests that insulin remains underused in people with T2D. We review the barriers to initiation of basal insulin and the education needed to address these barriers, and we provide practical pointers, supported by evidence, for primary care physicians and advanced practice providers to facilitate timely initiation of basal insulin in the people with T2D who will benefit from such treatment.

Association between perioperative glucose profiles assessed by the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system and prognosis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI): protocol for a cohort study

INTRODUCTION

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) presents a serious cardiovascular condition requiring prompt intervention. Dysglycaemia has been identified as a significant risk factor impacting STEMI prognosis. However, limited research has focused on comprehensively examining the association between glucose dynamics during the perioperative period and patient outcomes. This study aims to address this gap by leveraging continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology to gain real-time insights into glucose fluctuations and their potential impact on STEMI prognosis.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a multicentre, prospective, 3-year follow-up cohort study. Between May 2023 and May 2024, 550 eligible STEM patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention are expected to be recruited. Using the CGM system, continuous glucose levels will be collected throughout the perioperative phase. Key clinical parameters, including cardiac biomarkers, angiographic findings and major adverse cardiovascular events, will be assessed in relation to glucose profile.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China and will be conducted in accordance with the moral, ethical and scientific principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants before any study-related procedures are implemented. Study results will be disseminated through conferences and peer-reviewed scientific journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR2300069662.

Risk factors and the CCTA application in patients with vulnerable coronary plaque in type 2 diabetes: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors for vulnerable coronary plaques (VCPs), which are associated with adverse cardiovascular events, and to determine the value of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and VCPs.

METHODS

Ninety-eight T2DM patients who underwent CCTA and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) were retrospectively included and analyzed. The patients were grouped and analyzed according to the presence or absence of VCPs.

RESULTS

Among the patients with T2DM, time in range [TIR {the percentage of time blood glucose levels were in the target range}] (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.89-0.96; P < 0.001) and the high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) concentration (OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.09-0.63; P = 0.04) were correlated with a lower risk of VCP, but the triglycerides (TG) concentration was correlated with a higher risk of VCP (OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.01-3.18; P = 0.045). The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) of TIR, and HDL-C and TG concentrations were 0.76, 0.73, and 0.65, respectively. The combined predicted AUC of TIR, and HDL-C and TG concentrations was 0.83 (P < 0.05). The CCTA sensitivity, specificity, false-negative, and false-positive values for the diagnosis of VCP were 95.74%, 94.12%, 4.26%, and 5.88%, respectively. The identification of VCP by CCTA was positively correlated with IVUS (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

The TIR and HDL-C concentration are related with lower risk of VCP and the TG concentration was related with higher risk of VCP in patients with T2DM. In clinical practice, TIR, HDL-C and TG need special attention in patients with T2DM. The ability of CCTA to identify VCP is highly related to IVUS findings.

Guideline for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly in China (2024 Edition)

With the deepening of aging in China, the prevalence of diabetes in older people has increased noticeably, and standardized diabetes management is critical for improving clinical outcomes of diabetes in older people. In 2021, the National Center of Gerontology, Chinese Society of Geriatrics, and Diabetes Professional Committee of Chinese Aging Well Association organized experts to write the first guideline for diabetes diagnosis and treatment in older people in China, the Guideline for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly in China (2021 Edition). The guideline emphasizes that older patients with diabetes are a highly heterogeneous group requiring comprehensive assessment and stratified and individualized management strategies. The guideline proposes simple treatments and de-intensified treatment strategies for older patients with diabetes. This edition of the guideline provides clinicians with practical and operable clinical guidance, thus greatly contributing to the comprehensive and full-cycle standardized management of older patients with diabetes in China and promoting the extensive development of clinical and basic research on diabetes in older people and related fields. In the past 3 years, evidence-based medicine for older patients with diabetes and related fields has further advanced, and new treatment concepts, drugs, and technologies have been developed. The guideline editorial committee promptly updated the first edition of the guideline and compiled the Guideline for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly in China (2024 Edition). More precise management paths for older patients with diabetes are proposed, for achieving continued standardization of the management of older Chinese patients with diabetes and improving their clinical outcomes.

Metabolomics analysis of serum and urine in type 1 diabetes patients with different time in range derived from continuous glucose monitoring

BACKGROUND

Time in range (TIR), as an important glycemic variability (GV) index, is clearly associated with disease complications in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Metabolic dysregulation is also involved in the risks of T1D complications. However, the relationship between metabolites and TIR remains poorly understood. We used metabolomics to investigate metabolic profile changes in T1D patients with different TIR.

METHODS

This study included 85 T1D patients and 81 healthy controls. GV indices, including TIR, were collected from continuous glucose monitoring system. The patients were compared within two subgroups: TIR-L (TIR < 50%, n = 21) and TIR-H (TIR > 70%, n = 14). To screen for differentially abundant metabolites and metabolic pathways, serum and urine samples were obtained for untargeted metabolomics by ultra-performance liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry. Correlation analysis was conducted with GV metrics and screened biomarkers.

RESULTS

Metabolites were significantly altered in T1D and subgroups. Compared with healthy controls, T1D patients had higher serum levels of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan, 5-methoxyindoleacetate, 4-(2-aminophenyl)-2,4-dioxobutanoate, and 4-pyridoxic acid and higher urine levels of thromboxane B3 but lower urine levels of hypoxanthine. Compared with TIR-H group, The TIR-L subgroup had lower serum levels of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan and mevalonolactone and lower urine levels of thromboxane B3 and phenylbutyrylglutamine. Dysregulation of pathways, such as tryptophan, vitamin B6 and purine metabolism, may be involved in the mechanism of diabetic complications related to glycemic homeostasis. Mevalonolactone, hypoxanthine and phenylbutyrylglutamine showed close correlation with TIR.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified altered metabolic profiles in T1D individuals with different TIR. These findings provide new insights and merit further exploration of the underlying molecular pathways relating to diabetic complications.

Evaluation of association between time in range, a continuous glucose monitoring metric, and cardiac autonomic neuropathy in type 2 diabetes patients

Introduction

Time in range (TIR), a metric of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides better information regarding the individual's glycemic variability than a static measure like glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). TIR is emerging as an independent risk factor for diabetic complications, both microvascular and macrovascular complications independent of HbA1c. Hence, this study evaluates the association between TIR and cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) in type 2 diabetic patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 42 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were enrolled in this study and underwent a 3-day CGM using the "FreeStyle Libre Pro Flash Glucose Monitoring System Sensor" along with tests for CAN within the 3 days of attaching the CGM.

Results

Out of 42 patients, 36 patients (85.7%) were diagnosed with CAN (early CAN 57.1% and definite CAN 28.6%) and the mean TIR was 64.4% ±23.5%. Out of those with TIR <70%, 42.9% were affected with definite CAN compared to only 14.3% among those with TIR >70%. Patients with more severe CAN were found to have a lower TIR (P = 0.115).

Conclusion

The study found a high prevalence of cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) of around 85.7% in type 2 diabetes patients. Lower TIR values were associated with a higher incidence of definite CAN (42.9% vs. 14.3% in TIR <70% vs. >70% groups). The findings suggest TIR is inversely associated with the presence and severity of cardiac autonomic neuropathy in type 2 diabetic patients and also a potential link between TIR and CAN severity.

Effects of continuous glucose monitoring on glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) versus self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in maintaining glycaemic control among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023387583). PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and OVID databases were searched from 1 January 2000 until 31 December 2022 for randomized controlled trials comparing CGM with SMBG in glycaemic control among the outpatients with T2DM. The primary endpoint was glycated haemoglobin, while the secondary endpoints included time in range, time below range and time above range. Both traditional and network meta-analyses were conducted to explore the efficacy of CGM on glycaemic control in T2DM.

RESULTS

Eleven high-quality studies, involving 1425 individuals with T2DM, were identified. Traditional meta-analysis revealed that CGM exhibited a significantly decreased [mean difference (MD): -0.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-0.45, -0.18)], time above range [MD: -9.06%, 95% CI (-16.00, -2.11)], time below range [MD: -0.30%, 95% CI (-0.49, -0.12)] and a significantly increased time in range [MD: 8.49%, 95% CI (3.96, 13.02)] compared with SMBG. The network meta-analysis showed that real-time CGM can improve the glycaemic control of patients with T2DM to the most extent.

CONCLUSIONS

CGM could provide T2DM with greater benefits in glycaemic management compared with SMBG, particularly in patients using real-time CGM. These findings provide an updated perspective on previous research and offer guidance for CGM use in T2DM.

Glycemic variability: Measurement, target, impact on complications of diabetes and does it really matter?

Over the past two decades, there has been continuous advancement in the accuracy and complexity of continuous glucose monitoring devices. Continuous glucose monitoring provides valuable insights into blood glucose dynamics, and can record glucose fluctuations accurately and completely. Glycemic variability (GV) is a straightforward measure of the extent to which a patient's blood glucose levels fluctuate between high peaks and low nadirs. Many studies have investigated the relationship between GV and complications, primarily in the context of type 2 diabetes. Nevertheless, the exact contribution of GV to the development of diabetes complications remains unclear. In this literature review, we aimed to summarize the existing evidence regarding the measurement, target level, pathophysiological mechanisms relating GV and tissue damage, and population-based studies of GV and diabetes complications. Additionally, we introduce novel methods for measuring GV, and discuss several unresolved issues of GV. In the future, more longitudinal studies and trials are required to confirm the exact role of GV in the development of diabetes complications.

Correlation between time on target and glycated hemoglobin in people with diabetes mellitus: systematic review

to analyze the correlation between time on target and glycated hemoglobin in people living with diabetes mellitus and carrying out continuous blood glucose monitoring or self-monitoring of capillary blood glucose.

systematic review of etiology and risk based on JBI guidelines and reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses, covering six databases and grey literature. The sample included 16 studies and methodological quality was assessed using JBI tools. Protocol registered in the Open Science Framework, available at https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/NKMZB.

time on target (70-180 mg/dl) showed a negative correlation with glycated hemoglobin, while time above target (>180 mg/dl) showed a positive correlation. Correlation coefficients ranged between -0.310 and -0.869 for time on target, and between 0.66 and 0.934 for time above target. A study was carried out on a population that performed self-monitoring.

there is a statistically significant correlation between time on target and time above target with glycated hemoglobin. The higher the proportion in the adequate glycemic range, the closer to or less than 7% the glycated hemoglobin will be. More studies are needed to evaluate this metric with data from self-monitoring of blood glucose.

Application of glycemic qualification rate based on fingerstick glucose monitoring in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To explore the appropriate application of glycemic qualification rate (GQR) calculated by fingerstick blood glucose (BG) monitoring for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) by analyzing the relationship between BG control and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

Fingerstick Blood Glucose data during the second and third trimester of singleton pregnant women diagnosed with GDM were collected. GQR which is defined as the percentage of fingerstick BG values reaching the targets of BG control in a period of time was calculated. Patients were divided into three groups according to tertiles (tertile 1, GQR <56.25%; tertile 2, GQR 56.25-75%; and tertile 3, GQR ≥75%). Pregnant outcomes were compared among the three groups. Univariate analysis and logistic regression were performed to analyze the potential relationship between GQR and pregnancy outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated to determine the cutoff values. We also explored that whether twice or three times monitoring per day would be adequate for GQR calculation, so we brought in two or three glucose measuring times per day to explore the relationship between new GQR and adverse outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 311 patients diagnosed with GDM were analyzed. In univariate analysis, the incidences of cesarean section of tertile 1-3 groups were 61.4%, 58.7%, and 44.9%, respectively (p < .05). The incidences of neonatal hypoglycemia of tertiles 1-3 groups were 19.8%, 18.6%, and 8.7% (p < .05). The difference of composite outcomes was statistically significant (p = .001). After adjustment, the patients with worse BG control (lower GQR) had higher risk of cesarean section (tertile 1 - aOR = 2.029, 1.128-3.648), neonatal hypoglycemia (tertile 1: aOR = 2.498, 1.082-5.766) as well as composite outcomes. The ROC curve of GQR indicated the predictive value for neonatal hypoglycemia (area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.612 (0.532-0.692)) and neonatal composite outcomes (AUC 0.593 (0.528-0.657)) with optimal cutoff values of 81.1% and 73.5%, respectively. We also explored that whether twice or three times monitoring per day would be adequate for GQR calculation. The result showed that GQR only calculated by FBG + 2hPG after lunch (2h AL) per day also had well relationship with cesarean section (tertile 1: OR = 2.412, 1.322-4.398), neonatal hypoglycemia (tertile 1: aOR = 4.497, 1.607-12.586), and neonatal composite outcomes (tertile 1: aOR = 1.959, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.114-3.444, p = .020).

CONCLUSIONS

The GQR calculated by the easily applicable fingerstick BG is related to occurrence of cesarean section and neonatal hypoglycemia in GDM women. GQR ≥ 80% is recommended for better pregnancy outcomes. As for the number of points monitoring per day, GQR calculated by FBG + 2h AL was an optimal option for better pregnancy outcomes if mothers needed to simplify the process of monitoring.

Continuous glucose monitoring-derived time in range and CV are associated with altered tissue characteristics of the carotid artery wall in people with type 2 diabetes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Previous studies have suggested that glucose variability may accelerate atherosclerosis progression in people with type 2 diabetes. Current guidelines recommend assessing glycaemic control using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), which provides a comprehensive glycaemic profile to supplement HbA1c measurement. However, the association between CGM-derived metrics and atherosclerosis progression is not entirely clear.

METHODS

This exploratory study used baseline data and data obtained after 104 weeks from an ongoing prospective, multicentre, observational study. Six hundred study participants with type 2 diabetes and no apparent history of symptomatic cardiovascular disease underwent CGM and ultrasonographic atherosclerosis measurements of the carotid arteries, including the intima-media thickness (IMT) and grey-scale median (GSM), at baseline and 104 weeks. Non-invasive ultrasonic tissue characterisation of the carotid artery wall or plaque using the GSM reflects vascular composition. Multivariate regression models were used to analyse the association between CGM-derived indices, mainly time in range (TIR) and CV, and changes in carotid atherosclerosis index values.

RESULTS

Over the 104-week study period, there were modest increases in mean IMT (from 0.759±0.153 to 0.773±0.152 mm, p<0.001) and thickened-lesion GSM (from 43.5±19.5 to 53.9±23.5 units, p<0.001), but no significant changes in common carotid artery maximum-IMT (from 1.109±0.442 to 1.116±0.469 mm, p=0.453) or mean GSM (from 48.7±19.3 to 49.8±20.8 units, p=0.092). In a linear regression model with adjustment for possible atherosclerotic risk factors, including HbA1c, TIR and CV at baseline were significantly associated with the annual change in mean GSM (regression coefficient per 10% increase in TIR 0.52; 95% CI 0.06, 0.98; Hochberg-adjusted p value 0.038; regression coefficient per 1% increase in CV -0.12; 95% CI -0.22, -0.02; Hochberg-adjusted p value 0.038). TIR and CV at baseline were also significantly associated with the annual change in thickened-lesion GSM (regression coefficient per 10% increase in TIR 0.95; 95% CI 0.12, 1.79; Hochberg-adjusted p value 0.038; regression coefficient per 1% increase in CV -0.19; 95% CI -0.36, -0.01; Hochberg-adjusted p value 0.038). Participants who achieved target CGM-derived metrics at baseline, as proposed by an international consensus, showed significant annual changes in mean GSM compared with those who did not (0.94±6.88 vs -0.21±6.19 units/year, p=0.007).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

TIR and CV were significantly associated with changes in the tissue characteristics of the carotid artery wall.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry, number UMIN000032325.

Association of cumulative blood glucose load with cardiovascular risk and all-cause mortality

BACKGROUND

Incorporation both the magnitude and duration of exposure to elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG) into a single risk parameter (cumulative FBG load) for future diseases is intuitively appealing, although a data-based demonstration of the utility of this metric is not available. This study aimed to investigate the associations with cumulative FBG load with the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and all-cause mortality in the general population.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included 41,728 participants who were free of CVD and underwent four health examinations from 2006 to 2012. Cumulative FBG load during 2006-2012 was calculated as the area under curve for FBG values ≥ 5.6 mmol/L divided by the total area curve. We also compared the predicting value cumulative FBG load with other FBG metrics.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 6.75 years, we identified 2323 cases of CVD and 1724 cases of all-cause mortality. Per 1-standard deviation increase in cumulative FBG load was associated with a 16 % higher risk of CVD (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.16; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.13-1.20) and 20 % higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.20; 95 % CI, 1.16-1.25). For the prediction of cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality, cumulative FBG load outperformed FBG time-in-target, visit-to-visit FBG variability, and mean FBG in terms of C-statistics and reclassification indexes.

CONCLUSIONS

Cumulative FBG load may provide a better prediction of cardiovascular outcomes compared with other FBG metrics in the general population. These findings emphasized the important role of cumulative FBG load in assessing cardiovascular and mortality risk.

Digital health application integrating wearable data and behavioral patterns improves metabolic health

The effectiveness of lifestyle interventions in reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity for preventing Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) has been previously demonstrated. The use of modern technologies can potentially further improve the success of these interventions, promote metabolic health, and prevent T2D at scale. To test this concept, we built a remote program that uses continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and wearables to make lifestyle recommendations that improve health. We enrolled 2,217 participants with varying degrees of glucose levels (normal range, and prediabetes and T2D ranges), using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) over 28 days to capture glucose patterns. Participants logged food intake, physical activity, and body weight via a smartphone app that integrated wearables data and provided daily insights, including overlaying glucose patterns with activity and food intake, macronutrient breakdown, glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and activity measures. The app furthermore provided personalized recommendations based on users' preferences, goals, and observed glycemic patterns. Users could interact with the app for an additional 2 months without CGM. Here we report significant improvements in hyperglycemia, glucose variability, and hypoglycemia, particularly in those who were not diabetic at baseline. Body weight decreased in all groups, especially those who were overweight or obese. Healthy eating habits improved significantly, with reduced daily caloric intake and carbohydrate-to-calorie ratio and increased intake of protein, fiber, and healthy fats relative to calories. These findings suggest that lifestyle recommendations, in addition to behavior logging and CGM data integration within a mobile app, can enhance the metabolic health of both nondiabetic and T2D individuals, leading to healthier lifestyle choices. This technology can be a valuable tool for T2D prevention and treatment.

Glycemic control, HbA1c variability, and major cardiovascular adverse outcomes in type 2 diabetes patients with elevated cardiovascular risk: insights from the ACCORD study

BACKGROUND

Although recent guidelines advocate for HbA1c target individualization, a comprehensive criterion for patient categorization remains absent. This study aimed to categorize HbA1c variability levels and explore the relationship between glycemic control, cardiovascular outcomes, and mortality across different degrees of variability.

METHODS

Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes study data were used. HbA1c variability was measured using the HbA1c variability score (HVS) and standard deviation (SD). K-means and K-medians clustering were used to combine the HVS and SD.

RESULTS

K-means clustering was the most stable algorithm with the lowest clustering similarities. In the low variability group, intensive glucose-lowering treatment significantly reduced the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes (HR: 0·78 [95% CI: 0·63, 0·97]) without increasing mortality risk (HR: 1·07 [0.81, 1·42]); the risk of adverse cardiovascular events (HR: 1·33 [1·14, 1·56]) and all-cause mortality (HR: 1·23 [1·01,1·51]) increased with increasing mean HbA1c. In the high variability group, treatment increased the risk of cardiovascular events (HR: 2.00 [1·54, 2·60]) and mortality (HR: 2·20 [1·66, 2·92]); a higher mean HbA1c (7·86%, [7·66%, 8·06%]) had the lowest mortality risk, when the mean HbA1c was < 7·86%, a higher mean HbA1c was associated with a lower mortality risk (HR: 0·63 [0·42, 0·95]). In the medium variability group, a mean HbA1c around 7·5% was associated with the lowest risk.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c variability can guide glycemic control targets for patients with type 2 diabetes. For patients with low variability, the lower the HbA1c, the lower the risk. For those with medium variability, controlling HbA1c at 7·5% provides the maximum benefit. For patients with high variability, a mean HbA1c of around 7·8% presents the lowest risk of all-cause mortality, a lower HbA1c did not provide cardiovascular benefits but instead increased the mortality risk. Further studies, especially those with patients that reflect the general population with type 2 diabetes undergoing the latest therapeutic approaches, are essential to validate the conclusions of this study.

Association of prolactin with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among patients with type 2 diabetes: a real-world study

AIMS

The association between prolactin and mortality has been less studied, and findings were inconsistent among different populations. We aimed to investigate the association between serum prolactin (PRL) and mortality among patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 10 907 patients with at least 2 prolactin measurements within 2 years since their first inpatient diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Baseline and mean values of serum PRL were used as exposures. A multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the association between PRL and mortality. During a mean follow-up of 5.34 years, 863 patients died, of whom 274 were due to cardiovascular events. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) based on different levels of baseline PRL (<100, 100-199, 200-299, and ≥300 mIU/L) were 1.00, 1.10 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.90-1.36], 1.35 (95% CI 1.11-1.67), and 1.49 (95% CI 1.18-1.84) for all-cause mortality and 1.00, 1.24 (95% CI 0.86-1.81), 1.71 (95% CI 1.14-2.62), and 2.42 (95% CI 1.55-3.78) for cardiovascular mortality, respectively. Positive associations were also found when we used the mean values of PRL as the exposure. These associations were consistent among patients of different baseline characteristics. Further sensitivity analyses excluding patients with subclinical or clinical hypothyroidism at baseline and who died within the first 6 months since baseline demonstrated similar results.

CONCLUSIONS

A positive association between baseline PRL and mortality was observed among patients with type 2 diabetes. Prolactin may be considered a potential biomarker of mortality among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Glucose-lowering effects of semaglutide compared with dulaglutide using professional continuous glucose monitoring in outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a pilot study

Objective

Currently, the most frequently prescribed once weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) in Japan are dulaglutide (DG) and semaglutide (SG). However, little is known about the differences between these two compounds in clinical practice in Japan. This study compared the efficacy and safety of DG and SG using professional CGM in 12 patients attending our outpatient with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) while using GLP-1RA.

Methods

The study subjects were 12 T2DM patients with HbA1c ≥ 7.0% on treatment with 0.75 mg/week DG for at least 24 weeks. All patients wore the professional CGM twice, once while receiving DG and once when the SG dose was increased to 0.5 mg/week.

Results

Time in range was significantly better with SG than with DG, which was the main outcome measure. Regarding the secondary outcome measures, standard deviation of glucose, average sensor glucose, time above range, maximum sensor glucose, interquartile range, SD of glucose during the nocturnal period (0000-0559), and average nocturnal sensor glucose (0000-0559) were significantly better with SG than DG. In contrast, SG had no effect on the time below range and minimum sensor glucose compared to DG.

Conclusions

Switching from 0.75 mg DG to 0.5 mg SG in patients with T2DM improved glycemic variability, mean glycemic index, and daily variability without increasing the hypoglycemic index. The results suggest that switching to SG may be a useful option in patients experiencing inadequate glycemic control with DG.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13340-023-00640-2.

Glucose variability: a new risk factor for cardiovascular disease

AIMS AND DATA SYNTHESIS

Glucose variability (GV) is increasingly considered an additional index of glycemic control. Growing evidence indicates that GV is associated with diabetic vascular complications, thus being a relevant point to address in diabetes management. GV can be measured using various parameters, but to date, a gold standard has not been identified. This underscores the need for further studies in this field also to identify the optimal treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

We reviewed the definition of GV, the pathogenetic mechanisms of atherosclerosis, and its relationship with diabetic complications.

Comprehensive retinal vascular measurements: time in range is associated with peripheral retinal venular calibers in type 2 diabetes in China

AIM

Retinal vascular parameters are biomarkers of diabetic microangiopathy. We aimed to investigate the relationship between time in range (TIR) assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and retinal vascular parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes in China.

METHODS

The TIR assessed by CGM and retinal photographs were obtained at the same time from adults with type 2 diabetes who were recruited. Retinal vascular parameters were extracted from retinal photographs by a validated fully automated computer program, and TIR was defined as between 3.9-7.8 mmol/L over a 24-h period. The association between TIR and caliber of retinal vessels distributed in different zones were analyzed using multivariable linear regression analyses.

RESULTS

For retinal vascular parameters measurements, the peripheral arteriovenous and middle venular calibers widen with decreasing TIR quartiles (P < 0.05). Lower TIR was associated with wider peripheral venule after adjusting for potential confounders. Even after further correction for GV, there was still a significant correlation between TIR and peripheral vascular calibers (CV: β = - 0.015 [- 0.027, - 0.003], P = 0.013; MAGE: β = - 0.013 [- 0.025, - 0.001], P = 0.038) and SD: β = - 0.013 [- 0.026, - 0.001], P = 0.004). Similar findings were not found for the middle and central venular calibers or arterial calibers located in different zones.

CONCLUSIONS

The TIR was associated with adverse changes to peripheral retinal venules but not central and middle vessels in patients with type 2 diabetes, suggesting that peripheral retinal vascular calibers may be affected by glycemic fluctuations earlier.

Associations between metabolic score for visceral fat and the risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality among populations with different glucose tolerance statuses

AIMS

To investigate the associations between metabolic score for visceral fat (METS-VF) and clinical outcomes among populations with different glucose tolerance statuses.

METHODS

We analysed 6827 participants aged ≥ 40 years with different glucose tolerance statuses from a cohort study. The associations between METS-VF and cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and all-cause mortality were assessed using Cox regression, restricted cubic spline and receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

During a follow-up of 5.00 years, there were 338 CVD events and 307 subjects experienced all-cause death. The METS-VF quartile (Quartile 4 versus 1) was significantly related to CVD events [adjusted HRs and 95% CIs: 5.75 (2.67-12.42), 2.80 (1.76-4.48), and 3.31 (1.28-8.54) for subjects with normal glucose tolerance, prediabetes and diabetes, respectively] and all-cause mortality [adjusted HRs and 95% CIs: 2.80 (1.43-5.49), 4.15 (2.45-7.01), and 4.03 (1.72-9.42), respectively]. Restricted cubic spline suggested a dose-response association of METS-VF with the risk of CVD events and all-cause mortality. The area under curve for CVD events and all-cause mortality was higher for METS-VF than for the other obesity and IR indexes in subjects with different glucose tolerance statuses.

CONCLUSIONS

The METS-VF was associated with an increased risk of CVD events and all-cause mortality and could be used as a predictive index of the risk of CVD events and all-cause mortality among populations with different glucose tolerance statuses.

Spanish Consensus on the Use of Intermittently Scanned Continuous Glucose Monitoring in the Management of Patients With Insulin Therapy: The MONITOR Project

BACKGROUND

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems are increasingly being adopted as an alternative or adjunct to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) by patients receiving insulin therapy. However, the available evidence on the role of intermittently scanned CGM or flash CGM (isCGM) remains limited. This consensus aims to evaluate the degree of agreement among Spanish experts on the role of isCGM in the evaluation of glycemic variability, reduction of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and selection and adjustment of insulin therapy.

METHODS

Delphi methodology was used to achieve consensus in two survey rounds. A total of 431 Spanish endocrinologists participated in the first round of a 34-item questionnaire survey on isCGM and 427 participated in the second round. Any disagreement was resolved in round 2.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached for 32 statements, and four items were ultimately agreed upon SMBG after round 2. There was a high degree of consensus that isCGM helps to evaluate glycemic variability, improves HbA1c levels, and can guide therapeutic changes in type 1 diabetes patients. However, there was no consensus on the routine use of the interquartile range to evaluate glycemic variability or the selection of HbA1c as the main parameter for monitoring glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

Most Spanish experts believe that the isCGM system is appropriate for: (1) identifying glycemic variability and facilitating its management, (2) evaluating hyperglycemia as a complement of HbA1c levels, and (3) guiding therapeutic decisions on insulin selection and dosing. The isCGM system is a useful tool for patients and health care professionals to improve glycemic control in insulin-dependent diabetes.

Correlation Between Blood Glucose Indexes Generated by the Flash Glucose Monitoring System and Diabetic Vascular Complications

Objective

To discuss the relationship between time in range (TIR) which is deprived of the FGMS and the risk of diabetic vascular complications and to provide a theoretical foundation for the clinical application of TIR and other FGMS-deprived indexes.

Methods

Patients with T2DM who wore the FGMS sensor continuously were enrolled. Relevant indexes such as TIR, time below range (TBR), time above range (TAR), a standard deviation of blood glucose (SDBG), coefficient of variation of blood glucose (CV), and mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE) generated by the FGMS were recorded, and the risk of diabetic vascular complications were followed up for one year. The TIR was measured by continuous glucose monitoring at baseline, and patients were grouped according to TIR every 20%. Finally, the Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the association of different levels of TIR with different rates of diabetic vascular complications.

Results

TIR was negatively correlated with HbA1C, CV, SDBG, and amplitude of glycemic excursion (MV), wherein, the lower the TIR, the higher the HbA1C, CV, SDBG, and MV. TIR in the diabetic microvascular complication was significantly lower than that in the non-microvascular complication group, and the difference was statistically significant. TIR <40% was identified as a risk factor for DN, DPN, and DR according to the risk assessment. The mean TAR in the DN group was significantly higher than that in the non-DN group. TAR, CV, SD, MAGE, and HbA1C in the DR group were significantly higher than those in the non-DR group. TAR, ABG, CV, SD, MAGE, and HbA1C in the DPN group were significantly higher than those in the non-DPN group.

Conclusion

The relationships between the TIR and the prevalence and risk of diabetic vascular complications and the HbA1C may be negative. Other CGM-deprived indexes such as CV and MV should be integrated into glycemic control and diabetes complication prediction.

Correlation Between Glycemic Variability and Diabetic Complications: A Narrative Review

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder with a complex etiology in which glycemic dynamics are disturbed and the body is unable to maintain the process of glucose homeostasis through the pancreas. Persistent symptoms of high blood glucose or low blood glucose may lead to diabetic complications, such as neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular diseases. Glycemic variability which can represent the presence of excessive glycemic excursions is an indicator for evaluating glucose homoeostasis. Limiting glycemic variability has gradually become an emerging therapeutic target in improve diabetes metabolism and prevent associated complications. This article reviews the progress of research on the various quantifiable parameters of glycemic variability and their relationships with vascular lesions and mechanisms.

Glucose metabolism profile recorded by flash glucose monitoring system in patients with hypopituitarism during prednisone replacement

BACKGROUND

Commonly used glucocorticoids replacement regimens in patients with hypopituitarism have difficulty mimicking physiological cortisol rhythms and are usually accompanied by risks of over-treatment, with adverse effects on glucose metabolism. Disorders associated with glucose metabolism are established risk factors of cardiovascular events, one of the life-threatening ramifications.

AIM

To investigate the glycometabolism profile in patients with hypopituitarism receiving prednisone (Pred) replacement, and to clarify the impacts of different Pred doses on glycometabolism and consequent adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

METHODS

Twenty patients with hypopituitarism receiving Pred replacement [patient group (PG)] and 20 normal controls (NCs) were recruited. A flash glucose monitoring system was used to record continuous glucose levels during the day, which provided information on glucose-target-rate, glucose variability (GV), period glucose level, and hypoglycemia occurrence at certain periods. Islet β-cell function was also assessed. Based on the administered Pred dose per day, the PG was then regrouped into Pred > 5 mg/d and Pred ≤ 5 mg/d subgroups. Comparative analysis was carried out between the PG and NCs.

RESULTS

Significantly altered glucose metabolism profiles were identified in the PG. This includes significant reductions in glucose-target-rate and nocturnal glucose level, along with elevations in GV, hypoglycemia occurrence and postprandial glucose level, when compared with those in NCs. Subgroup analysis indicated more significant glucose metabolism impairment in the Pred > 5 mg/d group, including significantly decreased glucose-target-rate and nocturnal glucose level, along with increased GV, hypoglycemia occurrence, and postprandial glucose level. With regard to islet β-cell function, PG showed significant difference in homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)-β compared with that of NCs; a notable difference in HOMA-β was identified in Pred > 5 mg/d group when compared with those of NCs; as for Pred ≤ 5 mg/d group, significant differences were found in HOMA-β, and fasting glucose/insulin ratio when compared with NCs.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that Pred replacement disrupted glycometabolic homeostasis in patients with hypopituitarism. A Pred dose of > 5 mg/d seemed to cause more adverse effects on glycometabolism than a dose of ≤ 5 mg/d. Comprehensive and accurate evaluation is necessary to consider a suitable Pred replacement regimen, wherein, flash glucose monitoring system is a kind of promising and reliable assessment device. The present data allows us to thoroughly examine our modern treatment standards, especially in difficult cases such as hormonal replacement mimicking delicate natural cycles, in conditions such as diabetes mellitus that are rapidly growing in worldwide prevalence.

Beyond A1C: exploring continuous glucose monitoring metrics in managing diabetes

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) has long been considered a cornerstone of diabetes mellitus (DM) management, as both an indicator of average glycemia and a predictor of long-term complications among people with DM. However, HbA1c is subject to non-glycemic influences which confound interpretation and as a measure of average glycemia does not provide information regarding glucose trends or about the occurrence of hypoglycemia and/or hyperglycemia episodes. As such, solitary use of HbA1c, without accompanying glucose data, does not confer actionable information that can be harnessed to guide targeted therapy in many patients with DM. While conventional capillary blood glucose monitoring (BGM) sheds light on momentary glucose levels, in practical use the inherent infrequency of measurement precludes elucidation of glycemic trends or reliable detection of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia episodes. In contrast, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data reveal glucose trends and potentially undetected hypo- and hyperglycemia patterns that can occur between discrete BGM measurements. The use of CGM has grown significantly over the past decades as an ever-expanding body of literature demonstrates a multitude of clinical benefits for people with DM. Continually improving CGM accuracy and ease of use have further fueled the widespread adoption of CGM. Furthermore, percent time in range correlates well with HbA1c, is accepted as a validated indicator of glycemia, and is associated with the risk of several DM complications. We explore the benefits and limitations of CGM use, the use of CGM in clinical practice, and the application of CGM to advanced diabetes technologies.

Time in Range Estimation in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes is Improved by Incorporating Fasting and Postprandial Glucose Levels

INTRODUCTION

Time in range (TIR) as assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) measures an individual's glucose fluctuations within set limits in a time period and is increasingly used together with HbA1c in patients with diabetes. HbA1c indicates the average glucose concentration but provides no information on glucose fluctuation. However, before CGM becomes available for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) worldwide, especially in developing nations, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) are still the common biomarkers used for monitoring diabetes conditions. We investigated the importance of FPG and PPG to glucose fluctuation in patients with T2D. We used machine learning to provide a new estimate of TIR based on the HbA1c, together with FPG and PPG.

METHODS

This study included 399 patients with T2D. (1) Univariate and (2) multivariate linear regression models and (3) random forest regression models were developed to predict the TIR. Subgroup analysis was performed in the newly diagnosed T2D population to explore and optimize the prediction model for patients with different disease history.

RESULTS

Regression analysis suggests that FPG was strongly linked to minimum glucose, while PPG was strongly correlated with maximum glucose. After FPG and PPG were incorporated into the multivariate linear regression model, the prediction performance of TIR was improved compared with the univariate correlation between HbA1c and TIR, and the correlation coefficient (95% CI) increased from 0.62 (0.59, 0.65) to 0.73 (0.72, 0.75) (p < 0.001). The random forest model significantly outperformed the linear model (p < 0.001) in predicting TIR through FPG, PPG and HbA1c, with a stronger correlation coefficient 0.79 (0.79, 0.80).

CONCLUSIONS

The results offered a comprehensive understanding of glucose fluctuations through FPG and PPG compared to HbA1c alone. Our novel TIR prediction model based on random forest regression with FPG, PPG, and HbA1c provides a better prediction performance than the univariate model with solely HbA1c. The results indicate a nonlinear relationship between TIR and glycaemic parameters. Our results suggest that machine learning may have the potential to be used in developing better models for understanding patients' disease status and providing necessary interventions for glycaemic control.

Dementia in Diabetes: The Role of Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, a common consequence of diabetes treatment, is associated with severe morbidity and mortality and has become a major barrier to intensifying antidiabetic therapy. Severe hypoglycemia, defined as abnormally low blood glucose requiring the assistance of another person, is associated with seizures and comas, but even mild hypoglycemia can cause troubling symptoms such as anxiety, palpitations, and confusion. Dementia generally refers to the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive functions, which can interfere with daily life, and there is growing evidence that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of both vascular and non-vascular dementia. Neuroglycopenia resulting from a hypoglycemic episode in diabetic patients can lead to the degeneration of brain cells, with a resultant cognitive decline, leading to dementia. In light of new evidence, a deeper understating of the relationship between hypoglycemia and dementia can help to inform and guide preventative strategies. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology of dementia among patients with diabetes, and the emerging mechanisms thought to underlie the association between hypoglycemia and dementia. Furthermore, we discuss the risks of various pharmacological therapies, emerging therapies to combat hypoglycemia-induced dementia, as well as risk minimization strategies.