Risk factors associated with cognitive performance and cognitive impairment in older adults with type 1 diabetes: Data from the Wireless Innovation for Seniors with Diabetes Mellitus (WISDM) study

BACKGROUND

Adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are considered at increased risk for cognitive impairment and accelerated brain aging. However, longitudinal data on cognitive impairment and dementia in this population are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors associated with cognitive performance and cognitive impairment in a longitudinal sample of older adults with T1D.

METHODS

We analyzed data collected as part of the Wireless Innovation for Seniors with Diabetes Mellitus (WISDM) Study, in which 22 endocrinology practices participated. Randomized participants with T1D ≥60 years of age who completed at least one cognitive assessment were included in this study (n = 203). Cognitive impairment was classified using published recommendations.

RESULTS

Older age, male sex, non-private health insurance, worse daily functioning, diagnosis of neuropathy, and longer duration of diabetes were associated with worse cognitive performance, but not cognitive impairment. 49 % and 39 % of the sample met criteria for cognitive impairment at baseline and 52 weeks respectively. Of the participants that had data at both time points, 10 % were normal at baseline and impaired at 52 weeks and 22 % of participants (44 % of those classified with cognitive impairment at baseline) reverted to normal over 52 weeks.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that several demographic and clinical characteristics are associated with worse cognitive performance in older adults with T1D, but there were no associations between these characteristics and cognitive impairment defined by NIH Toolbox cognitive impairment criteria. Caution is warranted when assessing cognition in older adults with T1D, as a large percentage of those identified as having cognitive impairment at baseline reverted to normal after 52 weeks. There is need for future studies on the interrelationship of cognition and aging to better understand the effects of T1D on cognitive health, to improve clinical monitoring and help mitigate the risk of dementia in this population.

Cardiovascular and renal outcomes with varying degrees of kidney disease in high-risk people with type 2 diabetes: An epidemiological analysis of data from the AMPLITUDE-O trial

AIMS

To estimate the incidence of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) and a composite kidney outcome across estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) levels, and to determine whether efpeglenatide's effect varies with these indices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AMPLITUDE-O trial data were used to estimate the relationship of eGFR, UACR, and Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) category to the hazard of MACE and the kidney composite. Interactions on these outcomes between eGFR and the UACR, and between each of these variables and efpeglenatide were also assessed.

RESULTS

Baseline eGFR and UACR were available for 3983 participants (mean age 64.5 years). During a median follow-up of 1.8 years, the hazards of MACE and the kidney composite for the lowest versus highest eGFR third were 1.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2, 2.2) and 2.3 (95% CI 1.9, 2.8), respectively. The hazards for the highest versus the lowest UACR third were 2.3 (95% CI 1.8, 3.1) and 18.0 (95% CI 12.7, 25.5), respectively, and for the high- versus low-risk KDIGO categories the hazards were 2.4 (95% CI 1.8, 3.1) and 16.0 (95% CI 11.6, 22.0), respectively. eGFR and UACR were independent determinants of both outcomes, but negatively interacted with each other for the kidney outcome. Efpeglenatide's effect on both outcomes did not vary with any kidney disease measure (all interaction p values ≥0.26).

CONCLUSIONS

In high-risk people with diabetes, eGFR, UACR, and KDIGO category have different relationships to incident cardiovascular and kidney outcomes. The beneficial effect of efpeglenatide on these outcomes is independent of kidney-related risk category.

Dynamic associations between glucose and ecological momentary cognition in Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic condition characterized by glucose fluctuations. Laboratory studies suggest that cognition is reduced when glucose is very low (hypoglycemia) and very high (hyperglycemia). Until recently, technological limitations prevented researchers from understanding how naturally-occurring glucose fluctuations impact cognitive fluctuations. This study leveraged advances in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and cognitive ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to characterize dynamic, within-person associations between glucose and cognition in naturalistic environments. Using CGM and EMA, we obtained intensive longitudinal measurements of glucose and cognition (processing speed, sustained attention) in 200 adults with T1D. First, we used hierarchical Bayesian modeling to estimate dynamic, within-person associations between glucose and cognition. Consistent with laboratory studies, we hypothesized that cognitive performance would be reduced at low and high glucose, reflecting cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations. Second, we used data-driven lasso regression to identify clinical characteristics that predicted individual differences in cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations. Large glucose fluctuations were associated with slower and less accurate processing speed, although slight glucose elevations (relative to person-level means) were associated with faster processing speed. Glucose fluctuations were not related to sustained attention. Seven clinical characteristics predicted individual differences in cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations: age, time in hypoglycemia, lifetime severe hypoglycemic events, microvascular complications, glucose variability, fatigue, and neck circumference. Results establish the impact of glucose on processing speed in naturalistic environments, suggest that minimizing glucose fluctuations is important for optimizing processing speed, and identify several clinical characteristics that may exacerbate cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations.

Chapter 1: The Burden of Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) affects an estimated 6 million American adults, and the prevalence continues to increase, driven in part by the aging of the population and by increases in the prevalence of diabetes. In recent decades, improvements in the survival of patients with HF have resulted in a growing number of individuals living longer with HF. HF and its comorbidities are associated with substantial impairments in physical functioning, emotional well-being, and quality of life, and also with markedly increased rates of morbidity and mortality. As a result, the management of patients with HF has a substantial economic impact on the health care system, with most costs arising from hospitalization. Clinicians have an important role in helping to reduce the burden of HF through timely diagnosis of HF as well as increasing access to effective treatments to minimize symptoms, delay progression, and reduce hospital admissions. Prevention and early diagnosis of HF will play a fundamental role in efforts to reduce the large and growing burden of HF. Recent advances in pharmacotherapies for HF have the potential to radically change the management of HF, offering the possibility of improved survival and quality of life for patients.

New-Onset Diabetes After COVID-19

There is evidence suggesting that infection with SARS-CoV-2 can lead to several long-term sequelae including diabetes. This mini-review examines the rapidly evolving and conflicting literature on new-onset diabetes after COVID-19, which we term NODAC. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, and medRxiv from inception until December 1, 2022, using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and free text words including "COVID-19," "SARS-CoV-2," "diabetes," "hyperglycemia," "insulin resistance," and "pancreatic β-cell." We also supplemented searches by examining reference lists from retrieved articles. Current evidence suggests that COVID-19 increases the risk of developing diabetes, but the attributable risk is uncertain because of limitations of study designs and the evolving nature of the pandemic, including new variants, widespread population exposure to the virus, diagnostic options for COVID-19, and vaccination status. The etiology of diabetes after COVID-19 is likely multifactorial and includes factors associated with host characteristics (eg, age), social determinants of health (eg, deprivation index), and pandemic-related effects both at the personal (eg, psychosocial stress) and the societal-community level (eg, containment measures). COVID-19 may have direct and indirect effects on pancreatic β-cell function and insulin sensitivity related to the acute infection and its treatment (eg, glucocorticoids); autoimmunity; persistent viral residency in multiple organs including adipose tissue; endothelial dysfunction; and hyperinflammatory state. While our understanding of NODAC continues to evolve, consideration should be given for diabetes to be classified as a post-COVID syndrome, in addition to traditional classifications of diabetes (eg, type 1 or type 2), so that the pathophysiology, natural history, and optimal management can be studied.

A causal roadmap for generating high-quality real-world evidence

Increasing emphasis on the use of real-world evidence (RWE) to support clinical policy and regulatory decision-making has led to a proliferation of guidance, advice, and frameworks from regulatory agencies, academia, professional societies, and industry. A broad spectrum of studies use real-world data (RWD) to produce RWE, ranging from randomized trials with outcomes assessed using RWD to fully observational studies. Yet, many proposals for generating RWE lack sufficient detail, and many analyses of RWD suffer from implausible assumptions, other methodological flaws, or inappropriate interpretations. The Causal Roadmap is an explicit, itemized, iterative process that guides investigators to prespecify study design and analysis plans; it addresses a wide range of guidance within a single framework. By supporting the transparent evaluation of causal assumptions and facilitating objective comparisons of design and analysis choices based on prespecified criteria, the Roadmap can help investigators to evaluate the quality of evidence that a given study is likely to produce, specify a study to generate high-quality RWE, and communicate effectively with regulatory agencies and other stakeholders. This paper aims to disseminate and extend the Causal Roadmap framework for use by clinical and translational researchers; three companion papers demonstrate applications of the Causal Roadmap for specific use cases.

Glycemic and metabolic sub-classification of prediabetes and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in the D2d cohort

Objectives

Prediabetes represents a spectrum of metabolic abnormalities, including insulin resistance and secretory impairment, that carries increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. It is unclear whether specific glycemic and metabolic sub-classifications are associated with CVD risk. This cross-sectional analysis of 3946 participants from the Vitamin D and Type 2 Diabetes (D2d) study cohort aimed to determine the associations between various baseline CVD risk factors, glycemic sub-classifications of prediabetes (FPG, 2hPG, and HbA1c), and measures of insulin sensitivity and secretion from an OGTT.

Methods

The metabolic syndrome and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores were determined for tertiles of insulin sensitivity (HOMA2S) and insulinogenic index (IGI). Unadjusted analyses showed elevated CVD risk factors in the lowest tertile for both IGI and HOMA2S.

Results

After adjustment for age, gender, race, obesity, and smoking status, the association remained between HOMA2S and ASCVD score (r = -0.11, p< 0.001) but not for IGI. Those who met at least 2 diagnosic criteria for prediabetes had the largest proportion (> 40%) of participants with high ASCVD risk score >20. A higher percentage of individuals that met all 3 criteria for prediabetes had metabolic syndrome and ASCVD risk score >20 (87.2% and 15.3%, respectively) than those who only met 1 prediabetes criterion (51.6% and 7.1%, respectively).

Conclusions

In conclusion, multiple metabolic (HOMA2S, IGI) and glycemic criteria of prediabetes (FPG, 2hPG, & HbA1c) are needed to fully recognize the elevated CVD risk profile that can manifest in prediabetes.

The rationale, design and baseline data of FLOW, a kidney outcomes trial with once-weekly semaglutide in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) improve glycaemic control and lower body weight in people with T2D, and some reduce the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events in those with high CV risk. GLP-1RAs might also have kidney-protective effects. We report the design and baseline data for FLOW (NCT03819153), a trial investigating the effects of semaglutide, a once-weekly (OW) GLP-1RA, on kidney outcomes in participants with CKD and T2D.

METHODS

FLOW is a randomised, double-blind, parallel-group, multinational, phase 3b trial. Participants with T2D, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥50‒≤75 ml/min/1.73 m2 and urine albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) >300‒<5000 mg/g or eGFR ≥25‒<50 ml/min/1.73 m2 and UACR >100‒<5000 mg/g were randomised 1:1 to OW semaglutide 1.0 mg or matched placebo, with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade (unless not tolerated/contraindicated). The composite primary endpoint is time to first kidney failure (persistent eGFR <15 ml/min/1.73 m2 or initiation of chronic kidney replacement therapy), persistent ≥50% reduction in eGFR or death from kidney or CV causes.

RESULTS

Enrolled participants (N = 3534) had a baseline mean age of 66.6 years [standard deviation (SD) 9.0], haemoglobin A1c of 7.8% (SD 1.3), diabetes duration of 17.4 years (SD 9.3), eGFR of 47.0 ml/min/1.73 m2 (SD 15.2) and median UACR of 568 mg/g (range 2‒11 852). According to Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes guidelines categorisation, 68.2% were at very high risk for CKD progression.

CONCLUSION

FLOW will evaluate the effect of semaglutide on kidney outcomes in participants with CKD and T2D, and is expected to be completed in late 2024.

Effect of vitamin D on regression to normal glucose regulation and individual glycemic measures: A secondary analysis among participants adherent to the trial protocol in the randomized clinical trial vitamin D and type 2 diabetes (D2d) study

AIMS

To examine the effect of vitamin D on regression to normal glucose regulation (NGR) and individual glycemic measures in the D2d study.

METHODS

In per-protocol analyses, we examined time to new-onset diabetes; time to new-onset NGR defined as first occurrence of: 2-or-3 glycemic criteria in the normal range (NGR-1) or fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 2-hour post-load-glucose (2hPG) in the normal range (NGR-2); proportion meeting NGR at the last study visit; and change in FPG, 2hPG, and HbA1c.

RESULTS

Among 2423 participants, hazard ratio [HR] for diabetes was 0.84 [95%CI, 0.71, 0.99]). HR (95%CI) was 1.16 (0.99, 1.36) for new-onset NGR-1 and 1.06 (0.87, 1.30) for NGR-2. At the last visit, NGR-1 occurred in 12.4% vs. 9.5% participants in the vitamin D vs. placebo group (rate ratio for vitamin D 1.31 [1.02, 1.70]); whereas, NGR-2 occurred in 8.7% vs. 6.0% (rate ratio for vitamin D 1.45 [1.05, 2.00]). During follow-up, FPG, HbA1c, and 2hPG increased in both groups. Mean difference in FPG favored vitamin D (-0.80 mg/dL; 95%CI, -1.26, -0.33).

CONCLUSIONS

In secondary analyses among participants adherent to the trial protocol, vitamin D lowered risk of developing diabetes and increased likelihood of NGR at the end of the study.

Exploring the Relationship Between Efpeglenatide Dose and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes: Insights From the AMPLITUDE-O Trial

BACKGROUND

In the AMPLITUDE-O (Effect of Efpeglenatide on Cardiovascular Outcomes) cardiovascular outcomes trial, adding either 4 mg or 6 mg weekly of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist efpeglenatide to usual care reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in people with type 2 diabetes at high cardiovascular risk. Whether these benefits are dose related remains uncertain.

METHODS

Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to placebo, 4 mg or 6 mg of efpeglenatide. The effect of 6 mg versus placebo and of 4 mg versus placebo on MACE (a nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or death from cardiovascular or unknown causes) and on all the secondary composite cardiovascular and kidney outcomes was assessed. A dose-response relationship was assessed using the χ² statistic for trend.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 1.8 years, MACE occurred in 125 (9.2%) participants assigned to placebo, 84 (6.2%) participants assigned to 6 mg of efpeglenatide (hazard ratio [HR], 0.65 [95% CI, 0.5-0.86]; P=0.0027), and 105 (7.7%) assigned to 4 mg of efpeglenatide (HR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.63-1.06]; P=0.14). Participants receiving high-dose efpeglenatide also experienced fewer secondary outcomes, including the composite of MACE, coronary revascularization, or hospitalization for unstable angina (HR, 0.73 for 6 mg, P=0.011; HR, 0.85 for 4 mg, P=0.17), a kidney composite outcome comprising sustained new macroalbuminuria, a ≥40% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate or renal failure (HR, 0.63 for 6 mg, P<0.0001; HR, 0.73 for 4 mg, P=0.0009), MACE or any death (HR, 0.67 for 6 mg, P=0.0021; HR, 0.81 for 4 mg, P=0.08), a kidney function outcome comprising a sustained ≥40% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate, renal failure, or death (HR, 0.61 for 6 mg, P=0.0072; HR, 0.97 for 4 mg, P=0.83), and the composite of MACE, any death, heart failure hospitalization, or the kidney function outcome (HR, 0.63 for 6 mg, P=0.0002; HR, 0.81 for 4 mg, P=0.067). A clear dose-response was noted for all primary and secondary outcomes (all P for trend <0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

The graded salutary relationship between efpeglenatide dose and cardiovascular outcomes suggests that titrating efpeglenatide and potentially other glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists to high doses may maximize their cardiovascular and renal benefits.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT03496298.

"Nothing is linear": Characterizing the determinants and dynamics of CGM use in older adults with type 1 diabetes

AIMS

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can reduce hypoglycemia in older adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D). We aimed to characterize factors that influence effective use in this age group.

METHODS

Older adults with type T1D (age ≥ 65) and their caregivers participated in one of a series of parallel group model building workshops, a participatory approach to system dynamics involving drawing and scripted group activities. Data were synthesized in a qualitative model of the hypothesized system of factors producing distinct patterns of CGM use in older adults. The model was validated through virtual follow-up interviews.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 33 participants (four patient-caregiver dyads, mean age 73.8 ± 4.4 years [range 66-85 years]; 16 % non-CGM users, 79 % pump users). The system model delineates drivers of CGM uptake, drivers of ongoing CGM use, and feedback loops that either reinforce or counteract future CGM use. Participants emphasized the importance of different sets of feedback loops at different points in the duration of CGM use.

CONCLUSIONS

The holistic system model underscores that factors and feedback loops driving effective CGM use in older adults are both individualized and dynamic (e.g., changing over time), suggesting opportunities for staged and tailored age-specific education and support.

More hypoglycemia not associated with increasing estimated adiposity in youth with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Despite the widespread clinical perception that hypoglycemia may drive weight gain in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D), there is an absence of published evidence supporting this hypothesis.

METHODS

We estimated the body fat percentage (eBFP) of 211 youth (HbA1c 8.0-13.0%, age 13-16) at baseline, 6, and 18 months of the Flexible Lifestyles Empowering Change trial using validated equations. Group-based trajectory modeling assigned adolescents to sex-specific eBFP groups. Using baseline 7-day blinded continuous glucose monitoring data, "more" vs. "less" percent time spent in hypoglycemia was defined by cut-points using sample median split and clinical guidelines. Adjusted logistic regression estimated the odds of membership in an increasing eBFP group comparing youth with more vs. less baseline hypoglycemia.

RESULTS

More time spent in clinical hypoglycemia (defined by median split) was associated with 0.29 the odds of increasing eBFP in females (95% CI: 0.12, 0.69; p = 0.005), and 0.33 the odds of stable/increasing eBFP in males (95% CI: 0.14, 0.78; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoglycemia may not be a major driver of weight gain in US youth with T1D and HbA1c ≥8.0. Further studies in different sub-groups are needed to clarify for whom hypoglycemia may drive weight gain and focus future etiological studies and interventions.

IMPACT

We contribute epidemiological evidence that hypoglycemia may not be a major driver of weight gain in US youth with type 1 diabetes and HbA1c ≥8.0% and highlight the need for studies to prospectively test this hypothesis rooted in clinical perception. Future research should examine the relationship between hypoglycemia and adiposity together with psychosocial, behavioral, and other clinical factors among sub-groups of youth with type 1 diabetes (i.e., who meet glycemic targets or experience a frequency/severity of hypoglycemia above a threshold) to further clarify for whom hypoglycemia may drive weight gain and progress etiological understanding of and interventions for healthy weight maintenance.

Safety and tolerability of semaglutide across the SUSTAIN and PIONEER phase IIIa clinical trial programmes

AIM

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists improve glycaemic control: some are now available as oral and subcutaneous formulations, and some have indications for reducing cardiovascular risk. The expanded scope for these therapies warrants comprehensive safety evaluations. We report the safety/tolerability of subcutaneous and oral semaglutide from the SUSTAIN and PIONEER clinical trial programmes, respectively.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adverse events (AEs) from 16 randomized placebo- or active-controlled phase IIIa trials in patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 11 159) including once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide (n = 3150; SUSTAIN trials) or once-daily oral semaglutide (n = 4116; PIONEER trials) were analysed. Data pools were analysed for each programme, with separate analyses of cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs; n = 6480).

RESULTS

In the phase IIIa pools, gastrointestinal disorders were reported in 41.9%/39.1% of patients with subcutaneous/oral semaglutide, respectively (most prevalent during initiation/escalation) versus 22.0%/24.8% with comparators. Rates of kidney disorders, acute pancreatitis, malignant neoplasms, hypoglycaemia, diabetic retinopathy, heart failure and other cardiovascular events were similar for semaglutide versus comparators. Cholelithiasis incidence was higher with subcutaneous and oral semaglutide versus placebo. Diabetic retinopathy incidence was higher with subcutaneous semaglutide versus placebo in SUSTAIN 6. Small pulse rate increases occurred with both formulations; there was no increased rate of arrhythmias. Fatal AE incidence was similar between semaglutide and comparators. Versus placebo, CVOTs showed a reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events with subcutaneous semaglutide and non-inferiority criteria were met with oral semaglutide.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common AEs with semaglutide were gastrointestinal disorders, which decreased with continued therapy. These comprehensive safety/tolerability data may better inform patient selection and guidance in care.

A comparative Proteomics Analysis Identified Differentially Expressed Proteins in Pancreatic Cancer-Associated Stellate Cell Small Extracellular Vesicles

Human pancreatic stellate cells (HPSCs) are an essential stromal component and mediators of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are membrane-enclosed nanoparticles involved in cell-to-cell communications and are released from stromal cells within PDAC. A detailed comparison of sEVs from normal pancreatic stellate cells (HPaStec) and from PDAC-associated stellate cells (HPSCs) remains a gap in our current knowledge regarding stellate cells and PDAC. We hypothesized there would be differences in sEVs secretion and protein expression that might contribute to PDAC biology. To test this hypothesis, we isolated sEVs using ultracentrifugation followed by characterization by electron microscopy and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis. We report here our initial observations. First, HPSC cells derived from PDAC tumors secrete a higher volume of sEVs when compared to normal pancreatic stellate cells (HPaStec). Although our data revealed that both normal and tumor-derived sEVs demonstrated no significant biological effect on cancer cells, we observed efficient uptake of sEVs by both normal and cancer epithelial cells. Additionally, intact membrane-associated proteins on sEVs were essential for efficient uptake. We then compared sEV proteins isolated from HPSCs and HPaStecs cells using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Most of the 1481 protein groups identified were shared with the exosome database, ExoCarta. Eighty-seven protein groups were differentially expressed (selected by 2-fold difference and adjusted p value ≤0.05) between HPSC and HPaStec sEVs. Of note, HPSC sEVs contained dramatically more CSE1L (chromosome segregation 1-like protein), a described marker of poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer. Based on our results, we have demonstrated unique populations of sEVs originating from stromal cells with PDAC and suggest that these are significant to cancer biology. Further studies should be undertaken to gain a deeper understanding that could drive novel therapy.

Baseline cardiovascular risk in subjects with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease from the FLOW trial

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes (T2D) have a high risk of progression to kidney failure as well as cardiovascular (CV) events. It is established that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) improve glycaemic control and reduce body weight. Some CV outcomes trials have shown that GLP-1RAs reduce CV risk in people with T2D at high CV risk; for example, the SUSTAIN 6 trial demonstrated that the GLP-1RA semaglutide significantly lowered the rate of major CV events (CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke) versus placebo. Some trials have also indicated that GLP-1RAs reduce albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline. Based on these previous results indicating potential kidney-protective effects, the FLOW trial (NCT03819153) is evaluating once-weekly, subcutaneous semaglutide 1.0 mg versus placebo on kidney- and CV-related outcomes in participants with T2D. We describe the baseline characteristics and the calculated CV risk of this patient population using the atherosclerotic CV disease (ASCVD) and second manifestations of arterial disease (SMART) risk calculators.

Methods

FLOW is an ongoing, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group, event-driven, phase 3b trial, with participants randomised 1:1 to semaglutide or placebo, each in addition to standard of care. Recruitment is complete and 3,535 participants with T2D, an eGFR ≥25–≤75 mL/min/1.73 m2, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio ≥100–≤5,000 mg/g have been enrolled. The primary endpoint is time to first occurrence of a kidney composite that includes ≥50% persistent eGFR reduction, kidney failure (persistent eGFR &lt;15 mL/min/1.73 m2 or initiation of chronic dialysis or kidney transplantation), and kidney-related death, or CV death. Key secondary outcomes include time to first occurrence of CV death, myocardial infarction or stroke.

Results

The baseline clinical characteristics and demographics are shown (Table 1). Median age was 68 years, 30% were female, mean diabetes duration was 17 years, and 98% had a history of hypertension. Overall, 52% of participants had a previous CV event. The calculated 10-year risk for ASCVD events in those without prior ASCVD was 31% in males and 18% in females, and in those with previous CV events was 37–56% in males and 35–53% in females depending on the type of CV disease reported in the calculator (Table 2).

Conclusions

The FLOW trial has completed enrolment. Based on the ASCVD and SMART risk calculators, the enrolled population has a substantial risk for adverse CV outcomes. Event ascertainment is ongoing, and the FLOW trial will provide evidence for the potential of semaglutide to improve kidney and CV outcomes in the T2D population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Novo Nordisk

The effect of vitamin D supplementation on cardiovascular risk in patients with prediabetes: A secondary analysis of the D2d study

AIMS

Low blood 25(OH)D level is associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Additionally, individuals with prediabetes are at higher risk for CVD than individuals with normoglycemia. We investigated the effects of vitamin D supplementation on CVD outcomes in the vitamin D and type 2 diabetes (D2d) study, a large trial among adults with prediabetes.

METHODS

2423 participants were randomized to 4000 IU/day of vitamin D₃ or placebo and followed for median 3.0 years for new-onset diabetes. In pre-specified secondary analyses, we examined the effect of vitamin D supplementation on composite Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE); expanded MACE (MACE + revascularization); atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) risk score; and individual CVD risk factors (blood pressure, lipids, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein). Cox models compared hazard ratios (HR) between the two groups on MACE and expanded MACE.

RESULTS

Mean age was 60 years, 45 % were women, 13 % had history of CVD. Twenty-one participants assigned to vitamin D and 12 participants assigned to placebo met the MACE outcome (HR 1.81, 95%CI 0.89 to 3.69). There were 27 expanded MACE outcomes in each group (HR 1.02, 95%CI, 0.59 to 1.76). There were no significant differences between vitamin D and placebo in individual CVD risk factors, but change in ASCVD risk score favored the vitamin D group (-0.45 %, 95%CI -0.75 to -0.15).

CONCLUSIONS

In people with prediabetes not selected for vitamin D insufficiency and with intermediate CVD risk, vitamin D supplementation did not decrease MACE but had a small favorable effect on ASCVD risk score.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

D2d ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01942694, prospectively registered September 16, 2013.

The Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Association With Glycemia and Adiposity in Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: The ACT1ON Ancillary Gut Microbiome Pilot Study

Objectives

Co-managing glycemia and adiposity is the cornerstone of cardiometabolic risk reduction among people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) but targets are often not met. The gut microbiota and microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SFCA) influence glycemia and adiposity but have not been sufficiently investigated in longstanding T1D. We hypothesized that an increased abundance of SCFA-producing gut microbes, fecal SCFA, and gut microbial diversity were associated with improved glycemia but increased adiposity among young adults with longstanding T1D.

Methods

Participants provided stool samples at up to four time points. 16S rRNA gene sequencing determined the abundance of SCFA-producing gut microbes. Gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry determined total and specific SCFA (acetate, butyrate, and propionate). Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (% body fat or lean mass) and anthropometrics (body mass index [BMI]) measured adiposity. Continuous glucose monitoring (time in range [70–180 mg/dl], above range [>180 mg/dl], and below range [54–69 mg/dl]) and hemoglobin A1c assessed glycemia. Adjusted and Bonferroni-corrected generalized estimating equations modeled the associations of SCFA-producing gut microbes, fecal SCFA, and gut microbial diversity with glycemia and adiposity. COVID-19 interrupted data collection, so models were repeated with restriction to pre-COVID visits.

Results

Data were available for up to 45 participants at 101 visits, including 40 participants at 54 visits pre-COVID. The abundance of Eubacterium hallii was associated inversely with BMI (all data). Pre-COVID, increased fecal propionate was associated with increased time above range and reduced time in target and below range; and the increased abundance of four SCFA-producing intestinal microbes (Ruminococcus gnavus, Ruminococcus 2, Eubacterium ventriosum, and Lachnospira) was associated with reduced adiposity (% body fat or BMI), of which two microbes were also associated with increased % lean mass.

Conclusions

Unexpectedly, fecal propionate was associated with detriment to glycemia, while several SCFA-producing gut microbes were associated with benefit to adiposity. Future mechanistic studies may determine whether these associations have causal linkages in T1D.

Funding Sources

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Associations of Diet With the Intestinal Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids Among Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: The ACT1ON Ancillary Gut Microbiome Pilot Study

Objectives

Diet, a key component of type 1 diabetes (T1D) management, modulates the intestinal microbiota and its metabolically active byproducts, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), via fermentation of dietary carbohydrates such as fiber. The relationships among diet, the intestinal microbiota, and SCFA have been studied proximal to T1D onset, but remain largely unexplored in longstanding T1D. We hypothesized that increased carbohydrate intake, including fiber, was associated with increased SCFA-producing microbes, fecal SCFA, and gut microbial diversity among adults with longstanding T1D and overweight or obesity.

Methods

Participants provided stool samples at up to four time points. Trained interviewers collected 24-hour dietary recalls. 16S rRNA gene sequencing determined the abundance of SCFA-producing intestinal microbes. Gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry computed total and specific fecal SCFA (acetate, butyrate, and propionate) levels. Adjusted and Bonferroni-corrected generalized estimating equations modeled the associations of dietary fiber and carbohydrate with the abundance of SCFA-producing microbes, fecal SCFA, and gut microbial diversity. Data collection was interrupted by COVID-19; therefore, analyses were repeated with restriction to pre-COVID visits.

Results

Data were available for 44 participants at 99 visits, including 42 participants with 57 visits pre-COVID. Intake of soluble fiber (all data) and available carbohydrates (pre-COVID) were inversely associated with the genus Bacteroides and Eubacterium alistipes. Pre-COVID, total and soluble fiber and available carbohydrates were positively associated with total SCFA and acetate levels, and available carbohydrates were positively associated with the genus Roseburia and Eubacterium ventriosum.

Conclusions

In our sample of young adults with longstanding T1D, increased carbohydrate intake, including fiber, was associated with both reduced and increased SCFA-producing microbes but increased total fecal SCFA and acetate, which might influence lipid metabolism and weight. Mechanistic studies may examine how a diet designed to modulate the SCFA-producing capacity of the intestinal microbiota influences metabolism and energy balance in the metabolically unique setting of T1D.

Funding Sources

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Benefit of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Reducing Hypoglycemia Is Sustained Through 12 Months of Use Among Older Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Objective: To evaluate glycemic outcomes in the Wireless Innovation for Seniors with Diabetes Mellitus (WISDM) randomized clinical trial (RCT) participants during an observational extension phase. Research Design and Methods: WISDM RCT was a 26-week RCT comparing continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with blood glucose monitoring (BGM) in 203 adults aged ≥60 years with type 1 diabetes. Of the 198 participants who completed the RCT, 100 (98%) CGM group participants continued CGM (CGM-CGM cohort) and 94 (98%) BGM group participants initiated CGM (BGM-CGM cohort) for an additional 26 weeks. Results: CGM was used a median of >90% of the time at 52 weeks in both cohorts. In the CGM-CGM cohort, median time <70 mg/dL decreased from 5.0% at baseline to 2.6% at 26 weeks and remained stable with a median of 2.8% at 52 weeks (P < 0.001 baseline to 52 weeks). Participants spent more time in range 70-180 mg/dL (TIR) (mean 56% vs. 64%; P < 0.001) and had lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (mean 7.6% [59 mmol/mol] vs. 7.4% [57 mmol/mol]; P = 0.01) from baseline to 52 weeks. In BGM-CGM, from 26 to 52 weeks median time <70 mg/dL decreased from 3.9% to 1.9% (P < 0.001), TIR increased from 56% to 60% (P = 0.006) and HbA1c decreased from 7.5% (58 mmol/mol) to 7.3% (57 mmol/mol) (P = 0.025). In BGM-CGM, a severe hypoglycemic event was reported for nine participants while using BGM during the RCT and for two participants during the extension phase with CGM (P = 0.02). Conclusions: CGM use reduced hypoglycemia without increasing hyperglycemia in older adults with type 1 diabetes. These data provide further evidence for fully integrating CGM into clinical practice. Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03240432).

FC 123: Baseline Characteristics of the Flow Trial Population: Kidney Outcomes Trial With Once-Weekly Semaglutide in People With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in type 2 diabetes (T2D) is the most common cause of kidney failure. Despite treatment advances, there is still a large unmet need to prevent CKD progression, which can increase the risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease and kidney failure. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have beneficial effects on glycaemic control and body weight. Some agents have also shown CV benefit and can be used in people with T2D regardless of CKD status (except in end-stage renal disease). CV outcomes trials have suggested that GLP-1RAs may have kidney-protective effects, reducing albuminuria and preserving estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). FLOW (NCT03819153) is a dedicated kidney outcomes trial designed to evaluate the effect of the once-weekly (OW) GLP-1RA semaglutide on major kidney outcomes in subjects with T2D and CKD; we report the blinded baseline characteristics of the FLOW trial population.

METHOD

FLOW is an ongoing randomized, double-blinded, multinational, phase 3b trial in which 3535 subjects with T2D with an eGFR ≥25–≤75 mL/min/1.73 m², and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) &gt;100 to &lt;5000 mg/g were randomly assigned 1:1 to OW semaglutide 1.0 mg or placebo, as add-on to standard-of-care (including maximum labelled/tolerated renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors). The primary endpoint is the time to first occurrence of kidney failure (as measured by persistent eGFR &lt;15 mL/min/1.73 m² or initiation of chronic dialysis or kidney transplantation); ≥50% persistent eGFR reduction compared with baseline; and kidney or CV death.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics from FLOW are shown in the Table 1. Overall, mean eGFR at baseline was 47.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 with 79.6% of subjects having an eGFR of &lt;60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Median UACR at baseline was 567 mg/g, and 68.5% of subjects had macroalbuminuria (≥300 mg/g). According to Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes categories, 24.8% of subjects were classified as high risk and 68.2% of subjects were classified as very high risk for CKD progression (Figure 1).

CONCLUSION

The FLOW trial will evaluate the efficacy and safety of semaglutide on kidney outcomes in subjects with T2D and high risk of kidney disease progression, a group for which additional therapies are urgently required.

An Indirect Treatment Comparison of Semaglutide 2.0 mg vs Dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg Using Multilevel Network Meta-regression

AIMS

Currently, no head-to-head data are available comparing semaglutide 2.0 mg with dulaglutide 3.0 mg or 4.5 mg. We conducted an indirect treatment comparison (ITC) of their effects on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multilevel network meta-regression was conducted, based on a connected evidence network of published results from the A Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Dulaglutide (LY2189265) in Participants With Type 2 Diabetes 11 trial and individual patient data from the A Research Study to Compare Two Doses of Semaglutide Taken Once Weekly in People With Type 2 Diabetes (SUSTAIN) and SUSTAIN 7 trials.

RESULTS

Semaglutide 2.0 mg significantly reduced HbA1c vs dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg, with estimated treatment differences (ETDs) of -0.44% points (95% credible interval [CrI], -0.68 to -0.19) and -0.28% points (95% CrI, -0.52 to -0.03), respectively. Semaglutide 2.0 mg also significantly reduced body weight vs dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg with ETDs of -3.29 kg (95% CrI, -4.62 to -1.96) and -2.57 kg (95% CrI, -3.90 to -1.24), respectively. Odds of achieving HbA1c < 7.0% were significantly greater for semaglutide 2.0 vs dulaglutide 3.0 mg (odds ratio [OR]: 2.23 [95% CrI, 1.15-3.90]), whereas this did not reach significance for semaglutide 2.0 mg vs dulaglutide 4.5 mg (OR: 1.58 [95% CrI, 0.82-2.78]). Sensitivity analyses supported the main analysis findings.

CONCLUSIONS

This ITC demonstrated significantly greater reductions from baseline in HbA1c and body weight with semaglutide 2.0 mg vs dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg. The findings of this study provide important comparative effectiveness information until randomized head-to-head studies become available.

Efpeglenatide and Clinical Outcomes with and without Concomitant Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter-2 Inhibition Use in Type 2 Diabetes: Exploratory Analysis of the AMPLITUDE-O Trial

Background: Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) both reduce cardiovascular (CV) events among patients with type 2 diabetes. However, no CV outcome trial has evaluated the long-term effects of their combined use. The AMPLITUDE-O trial reported that once weekly injections of the GLP-1 RA efpeglenatide (vs. placebo) reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE); MACE, coronary revascularization or unstable angina hospitalization (expanded MACE); a renal composite outcome; and MACE or death in people with type 2 diabetes and CV and/or renal disease. The trial uniquely stratified randomization by baseline or anticipated use of SGLT2 inhibitors and included the highest prevalence at baseline (N=618, 15.2%) of SGLT2 inhibitor use among GLP-1 RA CV outcome trials to date. Its results were analyzed to estimate the combined effect of SGLT2 inhibitors and efpeglenatide on clinical outcomes. Methods: Cardiovascular and renal outcomes were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for region, SGLT2 inhibitor randomization strata, and the SGLT2 inhibitor-by-treatment interaction. Continuous variables were analyzed using a mixed-effects models for repeated measures that also included an interaction term. Results: The effect (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]) of efpeglenatide versus placebo in the absence and presence of baseline SGLT2 inhibitors, respectively, on MACE (0.74 [0.58- 0.94] and 0.70 [0.37- 1.30]), expanded MACE (0.77 [0.62- 0.96] and 0.87 [0.51- 1.48]), renal composite (0.70 [0.59- 0.83] and 0.52 [0.33- 0.83]), and MACE or death (0.74 [0.59- 0.93] and 0.65 [0.36- 1.19]) did not differ by baseline SGLT2 inhibitor use (P for all interactions >0.2). Efpeglenatide's reduction of blood pressure, body weight, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and urinary albumin:creatinine ratio also appeared to be independent of concurrent SGLT2 inhibitor use (all interaction P ≥0.08). Finally, adverse events did not differ by baseline SGLT2 inhibitor use. Conclusions: The efficacy and safety of efpeglenatide appear independent of concurrent SGLT2 inhibitor use. These data support combined SGLT2 inhibitor and GLP-1 RA therapy in type 2 diabetes.

Ertugliflozin and Slope of Chronic eGFR: Prespecified Analyses from the Randomized VERTIS CV Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

A reduction in the rate of eGFR decline, with preservation of ≥0.75 ml/min per 1.73 m² per year, has been proposed as a surrogate for kidney disease progression. We report results from prespecified analyses assessing effects of ertugliflozin versus placebo on eGFR slope from the eValuation of ERTugliflozin effIcacy and Safety CardioVascular outcomes (VERTIS CV) trial (NCT01986881).

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease were randomized to placebo, ertugliflozin 5 mg, and ertugliflozin 15 mg (1:1:1). The analyses compared the effect of ertugliflozin (pooled doses, n=5499) versus placebo (n=2747) on eGFR slope per week and per year by random coefficient models. Study periods (weeks 0-6 and weeks 6-52) and total and chronic slopes (week 0 or week 6 to weeks 104, 156, 208, and 260) were modeled separately and by baseline kidney status.

RESULTS

In the overall population, for weeks 0-6, the least squares mean eGFR slopes (ml/min per 1.73 m² per week [95% confidence interval (95% CI)]) were -0.07 (-0.16 to 0.03) and -0.54 (-0.61 to -0.48) for the placebo and ertugliflozin groups, respectively; the difference was -0.47 (-0.59 to -0.36). During weeks 6-52, least squares mean eGFR slopes (ml/min per 1.73 m² per year [95% CI]) were -0.12 (-0.70 to 0.46) and 1.62 (1.21 to 2.02) for the placebo and ertugliflozin groups, respectively; the difference was 1.74 (1.03 to 2.45). For weeks 6-156, least squares mean eGFR slopes (ml/min per 1.73 m² per year [95% CI]) were -1.51 (-1.70 to -1.32) and -0.32 (-0.45 to -0.19) for the placebo and ertugliflozin groups, respectively; the difference was 1.19 (0.95 to 1.42). During weeks 0-156, the placebo-adjusted difference in least squares mean slope was 1.06 (0.85 to 1.27). These findings were consistent by baseline kidney status.

CONCLUSIONS

Ertugliflozin has a favorable placebo-adjusted eGFR slope >0.75 ml/min per 1.73 m² per year, documenting the kidney function preservation underlying the clinical benefits of ertugliflozin on kidney disease progression in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NAME AND REGISTRATION NUMBER

US National Library of Medicine, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01986881. Date of trial registration: November 13, 2013.

Cardiovascular and Renal Outcomes with Efpeglenatide in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Four glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists that are structurally similar to human GLP-1 have been shown to reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events among persons with type 2 diabetes. The effect of an exendin-based GLP-1 receptor agonist, efpeglenatide, on cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes who are also at high risk for adverse cardiovascular events is uncertain.

METHODS

In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted at 344 sites across 28 countries, we evaluated efpeglenatide in participants with type 2 diabetes and either a history of cardiovascular disease or current kidney disease (defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 25.0 to 59.9 ml per minute per 1.73 m² of body-surface area) plus at least one other cardiovascular risk factor. Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive weekly subcutaneous injections of efpeglenatide at a dose of 4 or 6 mg or placebo. Randomization was stratified according to use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. The primary outcome was the first major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE; a composite of nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or death from cardiovascular or undetermined causes).

RESULTS

A total of 4076 participants were enrolled; 2717 were assigned to receive efpeglenatide and 1359 to receive placebo. During a median follow-up of 1.81 years, an incident MACE occurred in 189 participants (7.0%) assigned to receive efpeglenatide (3.9 events per 100 person-years) and 125 participants (9.2%) assigned to receive placebo (5.3 events per 100 person-years) (hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58 to 0.92; P<0.001 for noninferiority; P = 0.007 for superiority). A composite renal outcome event (a decrease in kidney function or macroalbuminuria) occurred in 353 participants (13.0%) assigned to receive efpeglenatide and in 250 participants (18.4%) assigned to receive placebo (hazard ratio, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.79; P<0.001). Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, or bloating occurred more frequently with efpeglenatide than with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

In this trial involving participants with type 2 diabetes who had either a history of cardiovascular disease or current kidney disease plus at least one other cardiovascular risk factor, the risk of cardiovascular events was lower among those who received weekly subcutaneous injections of efpeglenatide at a dose of 4 or 6 mg than among those who received placebo. (Funded by Sanofi; AMPLITUDE-O ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03496298.).

Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Kidney Function in Adults with Prediabetes: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) concentration has been associated with higher levels of proteinuria and lower levels of eGFR in observational studies. In the Vitamin D and Type 2 Diabetes (D2d) study, we investigated the effect of vitamin D supplementation on kidney outcomes in a population with prediabetes.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Overweight/obese adults with high risk for type 2 diabetes (defined by meeting two of three glycemic criteria for prediabetes) were randomized to vitamin D₃ 4000 IU per day versus placebo. Median duration of treatment was 2.9 years (interquartile range 2.0-3.5 years). Kidney outcomes included (1) worsening in Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO ) risk score (low, moderate, high, very high) on two consecutive follow-up visits after the baseline visit and (2) mean changes in eGFR and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR).

RESULTS

Among 2166 participants (mean age 60 years, body mass index 32 kg/m², serum 25(OH)D 28 ng/ml, eGFR 87 ml/min per 1.73 m², UACR 11 mg/g, 79% with hypertension), 10% had moderate, high, or very high KDIGO risk score. Over a median follow-up of 2.9 years, there were 28 cases of KDIGO worsening in the vitamin D group and 30 in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.89; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.52 to 1.52]). Mean difference in eGFR from baseline was -1.0 ml/min per 1.73 m² (95% CI, -1.3 to -0.7) in the vitamin D group and -0.1 ml/min per 1.73 m² (95% CI, -0.4 to 0.2) in the placebo group; between-group difference was -1.0 ml/min per 1.73 m² (95% CI, -1.4 to -0.6). Mean difference in UACR was 2.7 mg/g (95% CI, 1.2 to 4.3) in the vitamin D group and 2.0 (95% CI, 0.5 to 3.6) in the placebo group; between-group difference was 0.7 mg/g (95% CI, -1.5 to 2.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Among persons with prediabetes, who were not preselected on the basis of serum 25(OH)D concentration, vitamin D supplementation did not affect progression of KDIGO risk scores and did not have a meaningful effect on change in UACR or eGFR.

Prototype of an evidence-based tool to aid individualized treatment for type 2 diabetes

Data-driven tools are needed to inform individualized treatment decisions for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). To show how treatment might be individualized, an interactive outline tool was developed to predict treatment outcomes. Individualized predictions were generated for change in HbA1c and body weight after initiation of newer antidiabetes drugs recommended by current guidelines. These predictions were based on data from randomized controlled trials of glucose-lowering drugs. The data included patient demographics and clinical characteristics (sex, age, body mass index, weight, diabetes duration, HbA1c level, current diabetes treatment and renal function). Predicted outcomes were determined using prespecified statistical models from original trial protocols and estimated coefficients for selected baseline characteristics. This prototype illustrates how evidence-based individualized treatment might be facilitated in the clinic for people with T2D. Further and ongoing development is required to improve the tool's prognostic value, including the addition of disease co-morbidities and patient-orientated outcomes. Patient engagement and data-sharing by sponsors of clinical trials, as well as real-world evidence, are needed to provide reliable predicted outcomes to inform shared patient-physician decision-making.

Kidney outcomes using a sustained ≥40% decline in eGFR: A meta-analysis of SGLT2 inhibitor trials

Background

A recent meta‐analysis of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor outcome trials reported that SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with reduction in the risk of adverse composite kidney outcomes, with moderate heterogeneity across the trials; however, the endpoints were defined differently across the trials.

Hypothesis

The apparent heterogeneity of the meta‐analysis of kidney composite outcomes of SGLT2 inhibitor trials will be substantially reduced by using a consistent assessment of sustained ≥40% decline in eGFR/chronic kidney dialysis/transplantation/renal death across trials.

Methods

We performed a meta‐analysis of kidney composite outcomes from the four SGLT2 cardiovascular outcome trial programs conducted in general type 2 diabetes mellitus populations, which included, as a surrogate of progression to kidney failure, a sustained ≥40% decline in eGFR along with kidney replacement therapy and kidney death. The trials assessed were VERTIS CV (NCT01986881), CANVAS Program (NCT01032629 and NCT01989754), DECLARE‐TIMI 58 (NCT01730534), and EMPA‐REG OUTCOME (NCT01131676).

Results

Data from the trials comprised 42 516 individual participants; overall, 998 composite kidney events occurred. SGLT2 inhibition was associated with a significant reduction in the kidney composite endpoint (HR 0.58 [95% CI 0.51–0.65]) and with a highly consistent effect across the trials (Q statistic p = .64; I² = 0.0%).

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis highlights the value of using similarly defined endpoints across trials and supports the finding of consistent protection against kidney disease progression with SGLT2 inhibitors as a class in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who either have established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or are at high cardiovascular risk with multiple cardiovascular risk factors.

Effects of ertugliflozin on kidney composite outcomes, renal function and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: an analysis from the randomised VERTIS CV trial

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

In previous work, we reported the HR for the risk (95% CI) of the secondary kidney composite endpoint (time to first event of doubling of serum creatinine from baseline, renal dialysis/transplant or renal death) with ertugliflozin compared with placebo as 0.81 (0.63, 1.04). The effect of ertugliflozin on exploratory kidney-related outcomes was evaluated using data from the eValuation of ERTugliflozin effIcacy and Safety CardioVascular outcomes (VERTIS CV) trial (NCT01986881).

METHODS

Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established atherosclerotic CVD were randomised to receive ertugliflozin 5 mg or 15 mg (observations from both doses were pooled), or matching placebo, added on to existing treatment. The kidney composite outcome in VERTIS CV (reported previously) was time to first event of doubling of serum creatinine from baseline, renal dialysis/transplant or renal death. The pre-specified exploratory composite outcome replaced doubling of serum creatinine with sustained 40% decrease from baseline in eGFR. In addition, the impact of ertugliflozin on urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) and eGFR over time was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 8246 individuals were randomised and followed for a mean of 3.5 years. The exploratory kidney composite outcome of sustained 40% reduction from baseline in eGFR, chronic kidney dialysis/transplant or renal death occurred at a lower event rate (events per 1000 person-years) in the ertugliflozin group than with the placebo group (6.0 vs 9.0); the HR (95% CI) was 0.66 (0.50, 0.88). At 60 months, in the ertugliflozin group, placebo-corrected changes from baseline (95% CIs) in UACR and eGFR were -16.2% (-23.9, -7.6) and 2.6 ml min-1 [1.73 m]-2 (1.5, 3.6), respectively. Ertugliflozin was associated with a consistent decrease in UACR and attenuation of eGFR decline across subgroups, with a suggested larger effect observed in the macroalbuminuria and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease (KDIGO CKD) high/very high-risk subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Among individuals with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic CVD, ertugliflozin reduced the risk for the pre-specified exploratory composite renal endpoint and was associated with preservation of eGFR and reduced UACR.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01986881.

Hypoglycemia and Glycemic Control in Older Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Baseline Results From the WISDM Study

BACKGROUND

Knowledge regarding the burden and predictors of hypoglycemia among older adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is limited.

METHODS

We analyzed baseline data from the Wireless Innovations for Seniors with Diabetes Mellitus (WISDM) study, which enrolled participants at 22 sites in the United States. Eligibility included clinical diagnosis of T1D, age ≥60 years, no real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) use in prior three months, and HbA1c <10.0%. Blinded CGM data from 203 participants with at least 240 hours were included in the analyses.

RESULTS

Median age of the cohort was 68 years (52% female, 93% non-Hispanic white, and 53% used insulin pumps). Mean HbA1c was 7.5%. Median time spent in the glucose range <70 mg/dL was 5.0% (72 min/day) and <54 mg/dL was 1.6% (24 min/day). Among all factors analyzed, only reduced hypoglycemia awareness was associated with greater time spent <54 mg/dL (median time of 2.7% vs 1.3% [39 vs 19 minutes per day] for reduced awareness vs aware/uncertain, respectively, P = .03). Participants spent a mean 56% of total time in target glucose range of 70-180 mg/dL and 37% of time above 180 mg/dL.

CONCLUSIONS

Over half of older T1D participants spent at least an hour a day with glucose levels <70 mg/dL. Those with reduced hypoglycemia awareness spent over twice as much time than those without in a serious hypoglycemia range (glucose levels <54 mg/dL). Interventions to reduce exposure to clinically significant hypoglycemia and increase time in range are urgently needed in this age group.

Changes in Albuminuria Predict Cardiovascular and Renal Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes: A Post Hoc Analysis of the LEADER Trial

OBJECTIVE

A post hoc analysis to investigate the association between 1-year changes in albuminuria and subsequent risk of cardiovascular and renal events.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

LEADER was a randomized trial of liraglutide up to 1.8 mg/day versus placebo added to standard care for 3.5-5 years in 9,340 participants with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk. We calculated change in urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) from baseline to 1 year in participants with >30% reduction (n = 2,928), 30-0% reduction (n = 1,218), or any increase in UACR (n = 4,124), irrespective of treatment. Using Cox regression, risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and a composite nephropathy outcome (from 1 year to end of trial in subgroups by baseline UACR [<30 mg/g, 30-300 mg/g, or ≥300 mg/g]) were assessed. The analysis was adjusted for treatment allocation alone as a fixed factor and for baseline variables associated with cardiovascular and renal outcomes.

RESULTS

For MACE, hazard ratios (HRs) for those with >30% and 30-0% UACR reduction were 0.82 (95% CI 0.71, 0.94; P = 0.006) and 0.99 (0.82, 1.19; P = 0.912), respectively, compared with any increase in UACR (reference). For the composite nephropathy outcome, respective HRs were 0.67 (0.49, 0.93; P = 0.02) and 0.97 (0.66, 1.43; P = 0.881). Results were independent of baseline UACR and consistent in both treatment groups. After adjustment, HRs were significant and consistent in >30% reduction subgroups with baseline micro- or macroalbuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

A reduction in albuminuria during the 1st year was associated with fewer cardiovascular and renal outcomes, independent of treatment. Albuminuria monitoring remains an important part of diabetes care, with great unused potential.

ICU outcomes and survival in patients with severe COVID-19 in the largest health care system in central Florida

Background

Observational studies have consistently described poor clinical outcomes and increased ICU mortality in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who require mechanical ventilation (MV). Our study describes the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to ICU in the largest health care system in the state of Florida, United States.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients admitted to ICU due to severe COVID-19 in AdventHealth health system in Orlando, Florida from March 11^th until May 18th, 2020. Patients were characterized based on demographics, baseline comorbidities, severity of illness, medical management including experimental therapies, laboratory markers and ventilator parameters. Major clinical outcomes analyzed at the end of the study period were: hospital and ICU length of stay, MV-related mortality and overall hospital mortality of ICU patients.

Results

Out of total of 1283 patients with COVID-19, 131 (10.2%) met criteria for ICU admission (median age: 61 years [interquartile range (IQR), 49.5–71.5]; 35.1% female). Common comorbidities were hypertension (84; 64.1%), and diabetes (54; 41.2%). Of the 131 ICU patients, 109 (83.2%) required MV and 9 (6.9%) received ECMO. Lower positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) were observed in survivors [9.2 (7.7–10.4)] vs non-survivors [10 (9.1–12.9] p = 0.004]. Compared to non-survivors, survivors had a longer MV length of stay (LOS) [14 (IQR 8–22) vs 8.5 (IQR 5–10.8) p< 0.001], Hospital LOS [21 (IQR 13–31) vs 10 (7–1) p< 0.001] and ICU LOS [14 (IQR 7–24) vs 9.5 (IQR 6–11), p < 0.001]. The overall hospital mortality and MV-related mortality were 19.8% and 23.8% respectively. After exclusion of hospitalized patients, the hospital and MV-related mortality rates were 21.6% and 26.5% respectively.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates an important improvement in mortality of patients with severe COVID-19 who required ICU admission and MV in comparison to previous observational reports and emphasizes the importance of standard of care measures in the management of COVID-19.

Association of SGLT2 Inhibitors With Cardiovascular and Kidney Outcomes in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Meta-analysis

Importance

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors favorably affect cardiovascular (CV) and kidney outcomes; however, the consistency of outcomes across the class remains uncertain.

Objective

To perform meta-analyses that assess the CV and kidney outcomes of all 4 available SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Data Sources

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed from January 1, 2015, to January 31, 2020.

Study Selection

One hundred forty-five records were initially identified; 137 were excluded because of study design or topic of interest. As a result, a total of 6 randomized, placebo-controlled CV and kidney outcomes trials of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes were identified, with contributory data from 9 publications. All analyses were conducted on the total patient population of these trials.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Standardized data search and abstraction were performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement. Data were analyzed using a fixed-effect model.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included time to the first event of (1) the composite of major adverse CV events of myocardial infarction, stroke, or CV death, and each component, (2) the composite of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) or CV death (HHF/CV death) and each component, and (3) kidney composite outcomes. For outcomes in the overall trial populations and in selected subgroups, hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were pooled and meta-analyzed across trials.

Results

Data from 6 trials comprised 46 969 unique patients with type 2 diabetes, including 31 116 (66.2%) with atherosclerotic CV disease. The mean (SD) age of all trial participants was 63.7 (7.9) years; 30 939 (65.9%) were men, and 36 849 (78.5%) were White. The median number of participants per trial was 8246 (range, 4401-17 160). Overall, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a reduced risk of major adverse CV events (HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.85-0.95; Q statistic, P = .27), HHF/CV death (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.73-0.84; Q statistic, P = .09), and kidney outcomes (HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.56-0.70; Q statistic, P = .09), with no significant heterogeneity of associations with outcome. Associated risk reduction for HHF was consistent across the trials (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.61-0.76; I2 = 0.0%), whereas significant heterogeneity of associations with outcome was observed for CV death (HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.78-0.93; Q statistic, P = .02; I2 = 64.3%). The presence or absence of atherosclerotic CV disease did not modify the association with outcomes for major adverse CV events (HR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.84-0.95 and HR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.83-1.07, respectively; P = .63 for interaction), with similar absence of associations with outcome modification by prevalent atherosclerotic CV disease for HHF/CV death (P = .62 for interaction), HHF (P = .26 for interaction), or kidney outcomes (P = .73 for interaction).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this meta-analysis, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a reduced risk of major adverse CV events; in addition, results suggest significant heterogeneity in associations with CV death. The largest benefit across the class was for an associated reduction in risk for HHF and kidney outcomes, with benefits for HHF risk being the most consistent observation across the trials.

Design and baseline characteristics of the AMPLITUDE-O cardiovascular outcomes trial of efpeglenatide, a weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist

AIM

The effect of the weekly exendin-based glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist efpeglenatide on cardiovascular (CV) outcomes in high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

People with T2DM and glycated haemoglobin >7%, ≥18 years old with previous CV disease, or ≥50 years old with CKD [defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 25-59.9 mL/min/1.73 m² ], and one or more additional CV risk factors were recruited. Participants were randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio, stratified by current, intended or neither current nor intended use of a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor to receive weekly injections of efpeglenatide (4 mg or 6 mg) or masked placebo. The primary outcome is a major adverse CV event defined as non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke or CV death. Secondary outcomes include a composite kidney outcome (new onset macroalbuminuria with an increase from baseline of ≥30%, sustained 40% decrease in eGFR, renal replacement therapy, or sustained eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73 m² ). The trial will continue until ≥330 participants have had a major adverse CV event outcome and the sample size was based on accruing enough outcomes to detect non-inferiority of efpeglenatide versus placebo.

RESULTS

Recruitment of 4076 participants (33% women, mean age 64.5 years) occurred between 11 May 2018 and 25 April 2019 at 344 sites in 28 countries. Mean baseline glycated haemoglobin was 8.9% (1.5), 31.6% had an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m² , 89.5% had previous CV disease and 15.0% were on an SGLT2 inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the AMPLITUDE O trial will inform the use of exendin-based glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist to people with T2DM and high CV risk, with and without CKD, in the presence and absence of an SGLT2 inhibitor.

Dietary intake on days with and without hypoglycemia in youth with type 1 diabetes: The Flexible Lifestyle Empowering Change trial

OBJECTIVE

To address a common perception that hypoglycemia is associated with increased dietary intake, we examined calorie and carbohydrate consumption on days with and without hypoglycemia among adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Days (N = 274) with 24-hour dietary recalls and continuous glucose monitoring were available for 122 adolescents with T1D in the Flexible Lifestyle Empowering Change trial (age 13-16 years, diabetes duration >1 year, hemoglobin A1c 8%-13%). Days with no hypoglycemia, clinical hypoglycemia (54-69 mg/dL) or clinically serious hypoglycemia (<54 mg/dL) were further split into night (12-5:59 am) and day (6 am-11:59 pm). Mixed models tested whether intake of calories or carbohydrates was greater on days with than without hypoglycemia.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine percent, 23% and 18% of days had no hypoglycemia, clinical hypoglycemia and clinically serious hypoglycemia, respectively. Intake of calories and carbohydrates was not statistically significantly different on days with clinical hypoglycemia (57.2 kcal [95% CI -126.7, 241.5]; 12.6 g carbohydrate [95% CI -12.7, 38.0]) or clinically serious hypoglycemia (-74.0 kcal [95% CI -285.9, 137.9]; (-7.8 g carbohydrate [95% CI -36.8, 21.1]), compared to days without hypoglycemia. Differences by day and night were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Among adolescents with T1D, daily intake of calories and carbohydrates did not differ on days with and without hypoglycemia. It is possible that hypoglycemic episodes caused by undereating relative to insulin dosing, followed by overeating, leading to a net neutral difference. Given the post-hoc nature of these analyses, larger studies should be designed to prospectively test the hypoglycemia-diet relationship.

Efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in older patients with type 2 diabetes: A pooled analysis of phase III studies

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in older patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a post hoc analysis of patients with T2D aged less than 65 years and those aged 65 years or older who participated in randomized, double-blind, phase III studies of ertugliflozin. Efficacy was evaluated in a pooled analysis of three placebo-controlled studies (ertugliflozin monotherapy and add-on therapy). Safety was evaluated in a pooled analysis of seven placebo- and active-controlled studies (including those used for efficacy). Least-squares mean change from baseline was calculated for HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight (BW) and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Safety evaluation included overall and prespecified adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

In participants aged less than 65 years, the placebo-adjusted mean changes from baseline in HbA1c, BW and SBP with ertugliflozin 5 and 15 mg at week 26 were -0.9% and -1.0%, -1.9 and -1.8 kg, and -3.7 and -3.6 mmHg, respectively; in participants aged 65 years or older they were -0.6% and -0.8%, -1.9 and -2.2 kg, and -2.7 and -3.4 mmHg, respectively. The incidences of AEs, serious AEs, discontinuations and deaths in participants aged less than 65 years and those aged 65 years or older were generally similar across the treatment groups. In patients aged 65 years or older the incidences of volume depletion AEs and genital mycotic infection were higher with ertugliflozin than with non-ertugliflozin.

CONCLUSIONS

Ertugliflozin improved glycaemic control, BW and SBP in younger and older individuals with T2D and was generally well tolerated in both groups.

Cardiovascular Outcomes with Ertugliflozin in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

The cardiovascular effects of ertugliflozin, an inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2, have not been established.

METHODS

In a multicenter, double-blind trial, we randomly assigned patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease to receive 5 mg or 15 mg of ertugliflozin or placebo once daily. With the data from the two ertugliflozin dose groups pooled for analysis, the primary objective was to show the noninferiority of ertugliflozin to placebo with respect to the primary outcome, major adverse cardiovascular events (a composite of death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or nonfatal stroke). The noninferiority margin was 1.3 (upper boundary of a 95.6% confidence interval for the hazard ratio [ertugliflozin vs. placebo] for major adverse cardiovascular events). The first key secondary outcome was a composite of death from cardiovascular causes or hospitalization for heart failure.

RESULTS

A total of 8246 patients underwent randomization and were followed for a mean of 3.5 years. Among 8238 patients who received at least one dose of ertugliflozin or placebo, a major adverse cardiovascular event occurred in 653 of 5493 patients (11.9%) in the ertugliflozin group and in 327 of 2745 patients (11.9%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95.6% confidence interval [CI], 0.85 to 1.11; P<0.001 for noninferiority). Death from cardiovascular causes or hospitalization for heart failure occurred in 444 of 5499 patients (8.1%) in the ertugliflozin group and in 250 of 2747 patients (9.1%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.88; 95.8% CI, 0.75 to 1.03; P = 0.11 for superiority). The hazard ratio for death from cardiovascular causes was 0.92 (95.8% CI, 0.77 to 1.11), and the hazard ratio for death from renal causes, renal replacement therapy, or doubling of the serum creatinine level was 0.81 (95.8% CI, 0.63 to 1.04). Amputations were performed in 54 patients (2.0%) who received the 5-mg dose of ertugliflozin and in 57 patients (2.1%) who received the 15-mg dose, as compared with 45 patients (1.6%) who received placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, ertugliflozin was noninferior to placebo with respect to major adverse cardiovascular events. (Funded by Merck Sharp & Dohme and Pfizer; VERTIS CV ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01986881.).

Efficacy of Ertugliflozin on Heart Failure-Related Events in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Established Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: Results of the VERTIS CV Trial

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF). We assessed the effect of ertugliflozin on HHF and related outcomes.

Methods:

VERTIS CV (Evaluation of Ertugliflozin Efficacy and Safety Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial), a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, randomly assigned patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic cardiovascular (CV) disease to once-daily ertugliflozin 5 mg, 15 mg, or placebo. Prespecified secondary analyses compared ertugliflozin (pooled doses) versus placebo on time to first event of HHF and composite of HHF/CV death, overall and stratified by prespecified characteristics. Cox proportional hazards modeling was used with the Fine and Gray method to account for competing mortality risk, and Andersen-Gill modeling to analyze total (first+recurrent) HHF and total HHF/CV death events.

Results:

A total of 8246 patients were randomly assigned to ertugliflozin (n=5499) or placebo (n=2747); n=1958 (23.7%) had a history of heart failure (HF) and n=5006 (60.7%) had pretrial ejection fraction (EF) available, including n=959 with EF ≤45%. Ertugliflozin did not significantly reduce first HHF/CV death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.88 [95% CI, 0.75–1.03]). Overall, ertugliflozin reduced risk for first HHF (HR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.54–0.90]; P=0.006). Previous HF did not modify this effect (HF: HR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.44–0.90]; no HF: HR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.54–1.15]; P interaction=0.40). In patients with HF, the risk reduction for first HHF was similar for those with reduced EF ≤45% versus preserved EF >45% or unknown. However, in the overall population, the risk reduction tended to be greater for those with EF ≤45% (HR, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.30–0.76]) versus EF >45% (HR, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.58–1.29]). Effect on risk for first HHF was consistent across most subgroups, but greater benefit of ertugliflozin was observed in 3 populations: baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL·min^–1·1.73 m^–2, albuminuria, and diuretic use (each P interaction <0.05). Ertugliflozin reduced total events of HHF (rate ratio, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.56–0.87]) and total HHF/CV death (rate ratio, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.72–0.96]).

Conclusions:

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, ertugliflozin reduced the risk for first and total HHF and total HHF/CV death, adding further support for the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in primary and secondary prevention of HHF.

Registration:

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01986881.

Diabetes in ageing: pathways for developing the evidence base for clinical guidance

Older adults with diabetes are heterogeneous in their medical, functional, and cognitive status, and require careful individualisation of their treatment regimens. However, in the absence of detailed information from clinical trials involving older people with varying characteristics, there is little evidence-based guidance, which is a notable limitation of current approaches to care. It is important to recognise that older people with diabetes might vary in their profiles according to age category, functional health, presence of frailty, and comorbidity profiles. In addition, all older adults with diabetes require an individualised approach to care, ranging from robust individuals to those residing in care homes with a short life expectancy, those requiring palliative care, or those requiring end-of-life management. In this Review, our multidisciplinary team of experts describes the current evidence in several important areas in geriatric diabetes, and outlines key research gaps and research questions in each of these areas with the aim to develop evidence-based recommendations to improve the outcomes of interest in older adults.

Efficacy, safety and cardiovascular outcomes of once-daily oral semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes: The PIONEER programme

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are recommended for glycaemic management in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Oral semaglutide, the first oral GLP-1RA, has recently been approved for clinical use, based on the results of the randomized, Phase 3a Peptide InnOvatioN for Early diabEtes tReatment (PIONEER) clinical trials. The PIONEER programme tested oral semaglutide in patients with T2D of duration ranging from 3.5 to 15 years, from monotherapy through to insulin add-on, in global populations and two trials dedicated to Japanese patients. Outcomes (glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c] and body weight reduction, plus other relevant efficacy and safety endpoints) were tested against both placebo and active standard-of-care medications. A separate trial evaluated the cardiovascular safety of oral semaglutide in patients with T2D at high cardiovascular risk. Over periods of treatment up to 78 weeks, oral semaglutide 7 and 14 mg once daily reduced HbA1c and body weight across the spectrum of T2D, and improved other diabetes-related endpoints, such as fasting plasma glucose. Oral semaglutide provided significantly better efficacy than placebo and commonly used glucose-lowering medications from the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (sitagliptin) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (empagliflozin) classes, as well as the subcutaneous GLP-1RAs liraglutide and dulaglutide. Oral semaglutide was well tolerated in line with the known safety profile of GLP-1RAs, with transient gastrointestinal events being the most common side effects reported. Cardiovascular safety was demonstrated for oral semaglutide in patients with cardiovascular disease or high cardiovascular risk. The results of the PIONEER programme suggest that oral semaglutide is efficacious and well tolerated for glycaemic control of T2D. The availability of oral semaglutide may help to broaden treatment choice and facilitate adoption of earlier GLP-1RA treatment in the paradigm of T2D management.

Machine Learning to Identify Predictors of Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes: An Analysis of Target HbA1c Reduction Using Empagliflozin/Linagliptin Data

INTRODUCTION

Outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) could be optimized by identifying which treatments are likely to produce the greatest improvements in glycemic control for each patient.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to identify patient characteristics associated with achieving and maintaining a target glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of ≤ 7% using machine learning methodology to analyze clinical trial data on combination therapy for T2DM. By applying a new machine learning methodology to an existing clinical dataset, the practical application of this approach was evaluated and the potential utility of this new approach to clinical decision making was assessed.

METHODS

Data were pooled from two phase III, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group studies of empagliflozin/linagliptin single-pill combination therapy versus each monotherapy in patients who were treatment-naïve or receiving background metformin. Descriptive analysis was used to assess univariate associations between HbA1c target categories and each baseline characteristic. After the descriptive analysis results, a machine learning analysis was performed (classification tree and random forest methods) to estimate and predict target categories based on patient characteristics at baseline, without a priori selection.

RESULTS

In the descriptive analysis, lower mean baseline HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) were both associated with achieving and maintaining the HbA1c target. The machine learning analysis also identified HbA1c and FPG as the strongest predictors of attaining glycemic control. In contrast, covariates including body weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, or other variables did not contribute to the outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Using both traditional and novel data analysis methodologies, this study identified baseline glycemic status as the strongest predictor of target glycemic control attainment. Machine learning algorithms provide an hypothesis-free, unbiased methodology, which can greatly enhance the search for predictors of therapeutic success in T2DM. The approach used in the present analysis provides an example of how a machine learning algorithm can be applied to a clinical dataset and used to develop predictions that can facilitate clinical decision making.

Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: Findings from Prospective Real-life T1D Exchange Registry

CONTEXT

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of mortality in adults with type 1 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

We prospectively evaluated CVD risk factors in a large, contemporary cohort of adults with type 1 diabetes living in the United States.

DESIGN

Observational study of CVD and CVD risk factors over a median of 5.3 years.

SETTING

The T1D Exchange clinic network.

PATIENTS

Adults (age ≥ 18 years) with type 1 diabetes and without known CVD diagnosed before or at enrollment.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Associations between CVD risk factors and incident CVD were assessed by multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

The study included 8,727 participants (53% female, 88% non-Hispanic white, median age 33 years [interquartile ratio {IQR} = 21, 48], type 1 diabetes duration 16 years [IQR = 9, 26]). At enrollment, median HbA1c was 7.6% (66 mmol/mol) (IQR = 6.9 [52], 8.6 [70]), 33% used a statin, and 37% used blood pressure medication. Over a mean follow-up of 4.6 years, 325 (3.7%) participants developed incident CVD. Ischemic heart disease was the most common CVD event. Increasing age, body mass index, HbA1c, presence of hypertension and dyslipidemia, increasing duration of diabetes, and diabetic nephropathy were associated with increased risk for CVD. There were no significant gender differences in CVD risk.

CONCLUSION

HbA1c, hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetic nephropathy are important risk factors for CVD in adults with type 1 diabetes. A longer follow-up is likely required to assess the impact of other traditional CVD risk factors on incident CVD in the current era.

The Contemporary Prevalence of Diabetic Neuropathy in Type 1 Diabetes: Findings From the T1D Exchange

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the contemporary prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in participants with type 1 diabetes in the T1D Exchange Clinic Registry throughout the U.S.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

DPN was assessed with the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument Questionnaire (MNSIQ) in adults with ≥5 years of type 1 diabetes duration. A score of ≥4 defined DPN. Associations of demographic, clinical, and laboratory factors with DPN were assessed.

RESULTS

Among 5,936 T1D Exchange participants (mean ± SD age 39 ± 18 years, median type 1 diabetes duration 18 years [interquartile range 11, 31], 55% female, 88% non-Hispanic white, mean glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] 8.1 ± 1.6% [65.3 ± 17.5 mmol/mol]), DPN prevalence was 11%. Compared with those without DPN, DPN participants were older, had higher HbA1c, had longer duration of diabetes, were more likely to be female, and were less likely to have a college education and private insurance (all P < 0.001). DPN participants also were more likely to have cardiovascular disease (CVD) (P < 0.001), worse CVD risk factors of smoking (P = 0.008), hypertriglyceridemia (P = 0.002), higher BMI (P = 0.009), retinopathy (P = 0.004), reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (P = 0.02), and Charcot neuroarthropathy (P = 0.002). There were no differences in insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor use, although DPN participants were more likely to have had severe hypoglycemia (P = 0.04) and/or diabetic ketoacidosis (P < 0.001) in the past 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of DPN in this national cohort with type 1 diabetes is lower than in prior published reports but is reflective of current clinical care practices. These data also highlight that nonglycemic risk factors, such as CVD risk factors, severe hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and lower socioeconomic status, may also play a role in DPN development.

Reproducibility of a prediabetes classification in a contemporary population

Aims

To assess whether meeting both fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c criteria for prediabetes in people at high risk indicates with near certainty the presence of dysglycemia on repeat testing.

Methods

Observational study using data from Vitamin D and Type 2 Diabetes (D2d) study. HbA1c, FPG were measured at screening visit 1; FPG, HbA1c and 2 h plasma glucose (2hPG) measured at screening visit 2 (a median of 21 days later); participants classified as having normal glucose regulation (all 3 tests in normal range), prediabetes or diabetes (at least 1 of 3 tests in diabetes range). A predictive model was developed to estimate the probability of confirming dysglycemia and for detecting diabetes at screening visit 2 based on values of FPG and HbA1c at screening visit 1.

Results

Of 1271 participants who met both FPG and HbA1c criteria for prediabetes at screening visit 1, 98.6% exhibited dysglycemia (defined as prediabetes or diabetes) on repeat testing (84.5% were classified as having prediabetes, 14.1% were reclassified as having diabetes). Of those with diabetes, 62.6% were identified by 2hPG alone.

Conclusions

Combined measurement of FPG and HbA1c is a reliable and reproducible measure to identify presence of dysglycemia among people at high risk. A prediction model is provided to help clinicians decide whether an oral glucose tolerance test will provide value in detecting diabetes based on the 2hPG criterion.