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Introduction
The article in question deals with some effects of intensive diabetes treatment in type 1 diabetes patients. Purnell et al. (2012) claim that intensive diabetes treatment has been regarded as an efficient way to address diabetes type 1 symptoms, but it is also associated with quite serious side effects. The authors focus on the development of atherosclerosis, as well as other health conditions, associated with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) intensive treatment. The objective of the study is to explore the relationships between symptoms of metabolic syndrome, excessive weight gain, atherosclerosis, and intensive diabetes treatment. Purnell et al. (2012) hypothesize that hyperlipidemia and hypertension, as well as the family history of T2DM, is associated with “worsening markers of atherosclerosis” in patients during intensive diabetes treatment (p. 180).
The authors used a longitudinal experimental research design to check their hypothesis. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received an intensive or conventional type 1 diabetes treatment. Purnell et al. (2012) state that the results of the study show that there is an obvious correlation between intensive T1DM treatment, excessive weight gain, and T2DM histories. The major dependent variables used were blood pressure, lipid levels, and waist circumference.
Evaluation
It is possible to note that the study under analysis is rather effective, but it could be improved in many ways. For example, Purnell et al. (2012) do not include a literature review section. The authors refer to other studies, but these references are rather scarce. They are included in the introduction and discussion sections. Nonetheless, the absence of the literature review makes the study quite disconnected from the overall knowledge base on the matter. The reader does not have enough details to understand the scope of knowledge concerning the effects of intensive type 1 diabetes treatment. It is also unclear whether the issue has attracted any attention of scholars and practitioners.
At the same time, it is possible to note that the research is current and relevant to current health issues. First, the article was published in 2012 after the experiments had been carried out. The topic is relevant as there are millions of people suffering from type 1 diabetes who receive different types of treatment characterized by benefits and serious side effects. Therefore, it is vital to explore the effects of various types of treatment to ensure the best outcomes for patients.
As far as the type of research is concerned, it is efficient and relevant to the study’s objectives. Purnell et al. (2012) use the experimental research design to check their hypothesis. The authors examine the effects (particular variables) of the intensive T1DM treatment and the conventional one. It is also noteworthy that the dependent variables used are relevant to the objective as well since blood pressure, lipid levels, and waist circumference can reveal the degree of weight gain and symptoms of atherosclerosis.
It is possible to note that the sample is one of the strengths of the study. The number of participants is significant and can be regarded as informative enough as 1940 participants took part in the study. As has been mentioned above, the participants were divided into two groups randomly (1015 and 925), which makes the comparison relevant since the number of people in each group is quite similar. Random sampling ensured the validity of the research. It is possible to state that the sample was appropriate to the research as the participants had similar health conditions, so the changes in their health could be compared.
Another important strength of the research is it’s being practical. Purnell et al. (2012) provide scientific evidence of the correlation between intensive T1DM treatment and excessive weight gain as well as the development of atherosclerosis symptoms. The authors stress that T2DM family histories also correlate with the development of these symptoms in T1DM patients who receive intensive T1DM treatment. This information can help researchers in the development of more effective methods when treating the disorder and taking into account such criteria as family histories. The researchers note that their study helps practitioners to choose appropriate treatment types as it is clear that intensive T1DM treatment may lead to serious side effects. Purnell et al. (2012) also add that it is critical to pay more attention to weight control in such patients as it may lead to improved health outcomes. I support the researchers’ ideas concerning the practical use of the article.
As has been mentioned above, the research is quite effective, but when considering possible improvements, it is possible to add some dependent variables to test. It has been acknowledged that diabetes is a disorder that is associated with certain lifestyles. Therefore, it can be important to add the amount of exercise the participants have and their dietary habits. The experiment could be improved through the use of a survey that would include the points mentioned above. It can also be effective to highlight such aspects as socio-economic status and employment. People having more funds can have healthier lifestyles as they can afford better food and have more leisure time that can be devoted to exercise.
As to the downsides of the articles, it is possible to note that the writing is quite effective, but the layout of the article could be improved. For example, the authors should provide tables and graphs in the text as it is not very convenient to read the result section and search for the necessary page each time it is needed. The results section is overloaded with numbers, which makes it quite difficult to follow.
Although this study provides valuable insights into the topic, there are still numerous gaps yet to be addressed. For instance, it is possible to explore the correlation between intensive T1DM treatment in patients about different age or ethnic groups. The study in question involves predominantly Caucasians, but ethnicity may have a certain effect on the way the disorder develops.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to note that the article in question can be regarded as a valuable resource for those interested in the peculiarities of T1DM treatment. The study provides insights into the way intensive treatment correlates with excessive weight gain and the development of atherosclerosis. However, further research can complete the remaining gaps. For example, such factors as socioeconomic status and ethnicity can be analyzed. More so, the way the results of the research are delivered could also be improved. The article would benefit from the use of such sections as the literature review, limitations, and implications. The researchers could improve their results section through the use of graphs in the text as compared to using them in appendices.
Reference
Purnell, J.Q., Hokanson, J.E., Cleary, P.A., Nathan, D.M., Lachin, J.M., Zinman, B., & Brunzell, J. (2012). The effect of excess weight gain with intensive diabetes treatment on cardiovascular disease risk factors and atherosclerosis in type 1 diabetes: Results from the diabetes control and complications trial / epidemiology of diabetes interventions and complications study (DCCT/EDIC) Study. Circulation, 127(2), 180-187.
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