Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre
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Comparative Study
Decreased Spexin Levels in Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.
Spexin is a novel peptide which has a potential role as a biomarker of insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity. Our aim was to measure spexin levels in lean type 1 diabetic patients and its relevance to glycemic parameters without the presence of obesity or insulin resistance. ⋯ The presence of type 1 diabetes is associated with lower spexin levels, independent of glucose, lipid parameters, and BMI. The expression of spexin in the pancreas apart from the current glycemic control of the patients may be the main determinant of spexin levels in type 1 diabetic patients.
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Comparative Study
Physical Activity and Cognitive Function among Older Adults with an Elevated Gamma Gap.
An elevated gamma gap is indicative of high serum concentrations of globulin proteins, some of which elicit acute inflammatory responses. An impaired cognitive function has been linked to central and peripheral inflammation, while exercise is associated with protective, anti-inflammatory benefits. In this study, we evaluated whether the gamma gap is associated with cognitive function among older adults and whether physical activity is favorably associated with cognitive function among those with an elevated gamma gap. ⋯ In this national sample of older adults, the gamma gap was associated with cognitive function, and among those with an elevated gamma gap, meeting the physical activity guidelines was associated with a higher cognitive function. Relevant clinical implications are discussed, as the gamma gap may be predictive of the risk for early mortality and reduced quality of life. Experimental work is needed to investigate whether physical activity training programs are effective in reducing an elevated gamma gap and preserving optimal cognitive functioning among at-risk individuals.