Reduction of postprandial glucose peak levels by acarbose reduces postprandial mononuclear NF-kappaB activation.

The correct insulin application is an important aspect of a successful insulin therapy. Today, we have devices, which make insulin therapies easier to handle, socially more acceptable, and safer Of these, insulin pens are the most frequently used devices. This paper summarizes the particular knowledge necessary for correct and precise instruction of patients with regard to the choice of the pen and the fitting syringe as well as details of the correct use of the different pens. The injection technique itself does not differ from the one with syringes and needles. Nevertheless, some important aspects are pointed out.

ABSTRACT. Mutations in the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) are associated with severe obesity, independent of their effect on cortisol or thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. We examined a morbidly obese male (BMI = 62 kg/m 2 ) with a binge-eating disorder and eight family members for mutations in the MC4R gene and potential differences in leptin levels. Fifty healthy individuals served as controls. Sequence analysis revealed a novel heterozygous missense mutation (c.302 C>A, p.T101N) located in the second transmembrane domain of the receptor, which was not detected in controls. The Fisher exact test revealed an association between the T101N mutation and history of obesity (P < 0.05) in the family. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed an association between the mutation and the leptin/BMI ratio (P < 0.05), while there was no association between the T101N mutation and diabetes or arterial hypertension in the family. Although the available family was small, we could show a significant association between the heterozygous T101N mutation and obesity.