Actual Weight Loss Research Articles

Rebar corrosion monitoring using magnetic gradient and partial modulus

Abstract The rebar corrosion monitoring using magnetic method is a hot research area and it is necessary to develop effective methods using the rebar’s own magnetic characteristics with considerations of environmental magnetic field. In this paper, the magnetic gradient and partial modulus is proposed for rebar corrosion monitoring. The effectiveness of corrosion monitoring method is discussed on the basis of experimental results from eight rebars and four reinforced concrete beams before and after corrosion. The other three galvanized round steels are used to investigate the reliability and stability of the method. The results show that the percentage loss calculated by the magnetic gradient and partial modulus is basically consistent with the actual weight loss ratio and cross-sectional area loss ratio for uniform corrosion and the effects of environmental magnetic field can be negligible by using magnetic gradient and partial modulus, which shows promise for medium- and long-term monitoring in rebar corrosion.

Racial/ethnic variations in weight management among patients with overweight and obesity status who are served by health centres.

This study sought to examine racial/ethnic variations in receipt of provider recommendations on weight loss, patient adherence, perception of weight, attempts at weight loss and actual weight loss among patients with overweight/obesity status at Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centres (HC). We used a 2014 nationally representative survey of adult HC patients with overweight/obesity status (PwOW/OB) last year and reported the HC was their usual source of care (n = 3517). We used logistic regression models to assess the interaction of race/ethnicity and having obesity in (1) provider recommendations of diet or (2) exercise, (3) patient adherence to diet or (4) exercise, (5) perceptions of weight and (6) weight loss attempts. We used a multinomial regression model to examine (7) weight loss or gain vs no change and a linear regression model to evaluate (8) percent weight change. We found Black PwOW/OB (OR = 1.65) experienced greater odds of receiving diet recommendations than Whites. We found limited racial/ethnic disparities in adherence. Black (OR = 0.41), Hispanic/Latino (OR = 0.45), and American Indian/Alaska Native (OR = 0.41) PwOW/OB had lower odds of perceiving themselves as overweight. Black (OR = 1.68) and Hispanic (OR = 1.98) PwOW/OB had a greater odds of reporting weight gain, and Asian PwOW/OB (OR = 0.42) had lower odds of reporting weight loss than Whites. Disparities in provider diet recommendations among Blacks and Hispanics indicated the importance of personalized weight management recommendations. Understanding underlying reasons for discordance between self-perception and observed weight among different groups is needed. Overall increase in weight, despite current interventions, should be addressed through targeted racially/ethnically appropriate approaches.

Relationship between “Dry Weight” and Actual Weight Loss in Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure

Introduction In the treatment of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) estimation of the degree of volume overload is critical in guiding the goals of diuretic therapy. A “dry weight,” or the weight of a patient when they are euvolemic, is commonly used by clinicians to determine when to discontinue diuretic therapy during hospitalization. However, it is unclear how this dry weight relates to the actual weight loss achieved during hospitalization. Hypothesis Dry weight will have limited correlation with the ultimate weight loss achieved during hospitalization. Methods Patients hospitalized for ADHF with volume overload and receiving IV diuretics were enrolled. Each participant completed a clinical assessment survey that asked, “How many pounds of water weight are you above your dry weight?” We additionally extracted any dry weight that was documented in the electronic medical record (EMR) and the lowest documented weight in the EMR within the previous year. The primary comparison was to evaluate the correlation between the patients’ estimate above their dry weight and the degree of weight loss during ADHF hospitalization. Results 343 patients were enrolled and 246 (73%) were able to describe the amount of fluid above their dry weight, which was on average 15±18 lbs above ideal weight. The patient's estimate of their fluid excess correlated modestly with their actual weight loss during the admission (r= -0.38, P Conclusion Both the estimated and the EMR documented dry weight were only modestly correlated with the actual weight loss achieved during diuresis. Additional research is required to understand if the discrepancy between diuretic induced weight loss and “dry weight” is driven by inaccuracy in the “dry weight” or variability in the diuresis of these patients.

Weight loss variability with SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP‐1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity: Mechanistic possibilities

We are facing a global epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss, in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes, may improve glycaemic control and weight-related comorbidities, and in some cases, induce diabetes remission. Although lifestyle-based weight loss strategies may be initially successful, most are not effective long-term. There is an increasing need to consider pharmacological approaches to assist weight loss in diabetes-obesity. Older glucose-lowering agents may cause weight gain, whereas the newer drug classes, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), concomitantly target weight loss and glycaemic control. Clinical trial data suggest that both SGLT2i and GLP1 RAs cause a mean weight loss of approximately 2 to 3kg but real-world evidence and clinical experience suggests a significant heterogeneity in the magnitude of the weight loss (GLP-1 RAs) or the magnitude of the actual weight loss is significantly less than anticipated (SGLT2i). Why do some individuals lose more weight than others in response to these pharmacological treatments? This review will first explore mechanisms by which body weight is regulated through control of energy balance and its dysregulation in obesity, and then consider how these mechanisms may be modulated therapeutically with SGLT2i and GLP1 RAs.

Utility of a Clinical Decision Support System in Weight Loss Prediction After Head and Neck Cancer Radiotherapy.

To evaluate the utility of a clinical decision support system (CDSS) using a weight loss prediction model. A prediction model for significant weight loss (loss of greater than or equal to 7.5% of body mass at 3-month post radiotherapy) was created with clinical, dosimetric, and radiomics predictors from 63 patients in an independent training data set (accuracy, 0.78; area under the curve [AUC], 0.81) using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression. Four physicians with varying experience levels were then recruited to evaluate 100 patients in an independent validation data set of head and neck cancer twice (ie, a pre-post design): first without and then with the aid of a CDSS derived from the prediction model. At both evaluations, physicians were asked to predict the development (yes/no) and probability of significant weight loss for each patient on the basis of patient characteristics, including pretreatment dysphagia and weight loss and information from the treatment plan. At the second evaluation, physicians were also provided with the prediction model's results for weight loss probability. Physicians' predictions were compared with actual weight loss, and accuracy and AUC were investigated between the two evaluations. The mean accuracy of the physicians' ability to identify patients who will experience significant weight loss (yes/no) increased from 0.58 (range, 0.47 to 0.63) to 0.63 (range, 0.58 to 0.72) with the CDSS ( P = .06). The AUC of weight loss probability predicted by physicians significantly increased from 0.56 (range, 0.46 to 0.64) to 0.69 (range, 0.63 to 0.73) with the aid of the CDSS ( P < .05). Specifically, more improvement was observed among less-experienced physicians ( P < .01). Our preliminary results demonstrate that physicians' decisions may be improved by a weight loss CDSS model, especially among less-experienced physicians. Additional study with a larger cohort of patients and more participating physicians is thus warranted for understanding the usefulness of CDSSs.

Effectiveness of Intra-Gastric Balloon as a Bridge to Definitive Surgery in the Super Obese.

British National guidelines (NICE) recommend bariatric surgery for patients with a body mass index (BMI) > 40kg/m2, or BMI > 35kg/m2 with any comorbidities of the metabolic syndrome. Intra-gastric balloons (IGB) can be used in super obese patients as a first step, before definitive surgery. Quantify weight loss 6months after IGB placement, measure progression to definitive surgery and identify complications. Data collected retrospectively on 50 patients. Forty-six proposed for definitive bariatric surgery, four patients excluded. Analysis performed using SPSS v23.0. Median weight decreased from 165.5 to 155kg (range 78 to 212, p < 0.01), BMI from 57.4 to 52.15 (range 32.9 to 70.5, p < 0.01), percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) was 12.9% (range - 3.3 to 64.66%, p < 0.01) and BMI reduction was 4.25kg/m2 (range - 1.3 to 13.9, p < 0.01). Twenty-nine out of 46 patients (63%) progressed to definitive bariatric surgery. Ten out of 46 patients (21.7%) had complications requiring readmission. Seven of these patients required early balloon removal and six failed to progress to definitive surgery. Six patients had a second balloon placement, their actual weight loss was less successful, with some regaining weight. IGB is useful to aid weight loss prior to definitive bariatric surgery. Results from first balloon placement are encouraging and comparable with other studies "as reported by Genco et al. (Int J of Obes 30:129-133, 2006)." Readmission due to nausea, vomiting, dehydration and poor compliance may be associated with poor weight loss and failure to progress to definitive surgery. Second balloon placements were less successful. IGB as bridging therapy is a safe and useful adjunct. Sequential IGBs do not seem to provide additional benefit.

Log2Lose: Development and Lessons Learned From a Mobile Technology Weight Loss Intervention.

BackgroundProviding financial incentives has gained popularity as a strategy to promote weight loss, but questions remain about how best to utilize them. A promising mobile health strategy provides users with near-real-time financial incentives based on both the process of weight loss (behavioral modification) and actual weight loss. To maximize the impact of this strategy, a methodology is needed to close the gap between the desired behavior and the financial incentive. Leveraging mobile health tools—such as mobile phone apps, cellular body weight scales that transmit data to physicians and researchers, and text messaging for instructions and encouragement—has the potential to close this gap.ObjectiveThis study aimed to describe the development of an innovative technology-based solution and lessons learned from a feasibility trial—Log2Lose—that encouraged individuals to lose weight by providing near-real-time financial incentives for weight loss and/or dietary self-monitoring.MethodsWe recruited participants (N=96) with a body mass index greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2 for a 24-week weight loss trial. Participants received a behavioral intervention of biweekly, in-person group sessions and were instructed to log a minimum number of daily calories in MyFitnessPal and to step on the BodyTrace cellular scale at least twice per week. In a 2×2 design, participants were randomized into 4 groups to receive financial incentives for the following: (group 1) weekly weight loss and dietary self-monitoring, (group 2) dietary self-monitoring only, (group 3) weekly weight loss only, or (group 4) no financial incentives. Diet and weight data from the devices were obtained through application programming interfaces. Each week, we applied algorithms to participants’ data to determine whether they qualified for a monetary incentive (groups 1-3). A text message notified these participants of whether they met weight loss and/or self-monitoring requirements to earn an incentive and the amount they earned or would have earned. The money was uploaded to a debit card.ResultsOur custom-engineered software platform analyzed data from multiple sources, collated and processed the data to send appropriate text messages automatically, and informed study staff of the appropriate incentives. We present lessons learned from the development of the software system and challenges encountered with technology, data transmission, and participants (eg, lost connections or delayed communication).ConclusionsWith consistent and constant validation checks and a robust beta test run, the process of analyzing data and determining eligibility for weekly incentives can be mostly automated. We were able to accomplish this project within an academic health system, which required significant security and privacy safeguards. Our success demonstrates how this methodology of automated feedback loops can provide health interventions via mobile technology.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02691260; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02691260

Changes in body image during a 6-month lifestyle behaviour intervention in a sample of overweight and obese individuals

BackgroundIndividuals with long-term chronic body image dissatisfaction may experience excessive stress and negative cognitions and feelings. Changes in negative cognition about body image are often reported as outcomes of obesity treatment. In turn, body image dissatisfaction also influences behavioural adherence and success in weight loss. ObjectivesThe purpose of the present study was to elucidate psychological changes during 6 months of lifestyle behaviour intervention and the association of these changes with actual weight loss. MethodsThe study examined associations between body image dissatisfaction and obesity treatment-related variables among 33 overweight and obese adults (age = 38.9 ± 6.5 years) participating in a 6-month diet and exercise weight loss intervention. Measurements of body image dissatisfaction and anthropometric variables were taken at baseline and after 6-months. DiscussionSignificant improvements were observed in all physical variables (e.g. weight, percentage of body fat mass, waist and hip circumference) after intervention. Body image dissatisfaction improved significantly over the treatment, and these changes were associated with changes in obesity indicators. ConclusionsChanges in weight and body image probably influence each other dynamically. Results from this study support the inclusion of cognitive intervention aimed at improving body image in weight management programs.

Weight Loss As A Prognosis Factor In Patients With Liver, Pancreas, And Galldbladder Tumors

Introduction: Weight loss is a frequent problem with cancer patients, which affects the prognosis, lengthens hospital stays, increasing costs, and overall affecting quality of life. The reasons behind weight loss can vary from tumor-host effects in the digestive tube, and all the way to side effects due to cancer treatment. Method: 192 patients were evaluated with pancreas, and gallbladder cancer. Variables as sex, age, medical prognosis, height, normal weight, actual weight, and weight loss percentage they were analyzed. Result: The average habitual weight was of 72.06+15.6kg and the average actual weight at the time of the oncological diagnosis was of 62.07+13.16 kg. The frequency of tumors is as according: Pancreatic cancer with 41%(79), followed by hepatic cancer with 36%(69) and bile ducts cancer with 23%(44). A whopping 97% of all patients showed a weight loss in reference to normal weight. Out of that percentage, a 59.4%(114) showed a severe weight loss. Pancreatic cancer was the highest in weight loss, followed by hepatic cancer. Conclusion: Weight loss is a common problem found in cancer patients. This study classified more than half of the patients evaluated with a dramatic weight loss. The pancreatic cancer showed the highest percentage of weight loss.

Quantitative and quality losses caused by rodents in on-farm stored maize: a case study in the low land tropical zone of Kenya

Rodents are one of the major storage pests in on-farm maize storage in the tropics. However, information on actual magnitude of weight and quality losses caused by rodents in maize stores and species of rodent associated with the losses is scarce and if available would help to improve maize postharvest management. Maize stores of small-scale farmers in the lowland tropical zone of Kenya were monitored for actual weight losses caused by rodents and rodent trapping was conducted to determine species and estimate population of the rodents associated with the losses. Moulds and total aflatoxin contamination and nutritional value of rodent-damaged grain and non-damaged grain samples were also compared to evaluate the impact of rodent infestation on grain quality. In a sample of 20 farmers, we found that cumulative weight losses due to rodents ranged from 2.2 to 6.9% in shelled maize grain and from 5.2 to 18.3% in dehusked cobs after storage for 3 months. Rattus rattus was the only rodent species captured over the whole trapping period with a trap success rate of 0.6–10.0%. Total mould count, Fusarium spp. incidence and total aflatoxin contamination were significantly higher in rodent-damaged grains than in the non-damaged ones whereas no significant differences were observed for the incidence of Aspergillus spp. There were also significant decreases in dry-matter, fat, crude protein and fatty acid content in rodent-damaged grain compared to non-damaged grain. These findings show that rodents are a significant cause of postharvest losses in on-farm maize storage and impact negatively on food nutrition and safety. Mitigation strategies for postharvest losses should therefore include rodent control.

The effect of exercise in the treatment of obesity

The world continues in the midst of a significant public health problem related to obesity and inactivity. This epidemic has far-ranging consequences on the workforce of the world and on our children, and shows no signs of slowing down in the near future. A significant amount of research has been performed on the effects of exercise for the reduction of body weight. A literature review was performed to address the effects of aerobic exercise, strength training, and high intensity interval training (HIIT) on obesity and weight loss. Most studies indicate that exercise alone has a small effect on body weight reduction independent of caloric restriction. When combined with dietary restriction, exercise has a synergistic effect and enhances weight loss beyond the effect of diet alone. Exercise also has been shown to have significant beneficial effects on cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors independent of actual weight loss, and losing just a small amount of weight can have a significant beneficial effect. Genetic factors related to obesity have been found to be positively modified when individuals incorporate physical activity into their lifestyle. Sitting time also appears to be an independent risk factor for the development of metabolic risk factors; individuals who spend more time sitting and watching television have worse metabolic profiles, even if they achieve the recommended amount of physical activity per week. High intensity interval training has been shown to be a safe, effective, and well-tolerated mode of exercise in the obese population, and compliance may be better than continuous moderate duration exercise. Continuous moderate intensity aerobic exercise has a synergistic effect with diet to enhance weight loss. Resistance training has significant cardiovascular and metabolic effects independent of weight loss. High intensity interval training is effective, time efficient, and well-tolerated in the obese population.

Recent attempted and actual weight change in relation to pregnancy loss: a prospective cohort study.

To assess weight change and attempted weight loss during the 12-18 months before spontaneous conception in relation to the risk of pregnancy loss. Prospective cohort study. United States, 2007-2011. Women (n = 629) who were attempting pregnancy reported at baseline any weight loss attempts over the past 12 months, and their minimum and maximum weights during that time. Follow up lasted one to six menstrual cycles and throughout pregnancy. Using bodyweight measured at 4 weeks' gestation, participants were categorised as having weight loss ≥5%, weight gain ≥5%, both, or neither, over the previous 12-18 months. Log-binomial models adjusted for potential confounders. Risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of pregnancy loss. Attempted weight loss was reported by 44% of women and actual weight loss by 11%, but neither was consistently associated with pregnancy loss. The RR for recent weight gain ≥5% was 1.65 (CI 1.09, 2.49). Weight gain over the period spanning 12-18 months pre-conception to 4 weeks' gestation may increase the risk of pregnancy loss among fertile women with prior pregnancy losses. Attempted and actual weight loss were not associated with pregnancy loss; however, replication is needed from larger studies with data on particular weight-loss methods. Recent weight gain before and around the time of conception may increase the risk of pregnancy loss.

Influence of Parameters and Wear Analysis of Aluminium-Bronze (CuAl8Fe3) by Taguchi Method

Objective: The tribiological activity of aluminium bronze (CuAl 8 Fe 3 ) has been explored using the pin-on-discmachine at various loads under dry sliding wear condition. Method/Analysis: The work piece had a size of 11.4mm in Diameter, 103 mm in length. In this paper, the wear rate has been evaluated at loads (1, 2 and 3 Kg) and Disc speed (500, 700, 900 rpm) at different time intervals. Taguchi method is applied to find out the powerfullness of parameters and optimization of influence of wear rate factors like speed, load and time on dry sliding wear. Findings:The results proves that the applied load was the major parameter among the controllable factors that cause the weight loss of aluminium bronze (CuAl 8 Fe 3 ). For aluminium bronze(CuAl 8 Fe 3 ), the load had the greatest effect on the wear. The sliding speed had a minimum effect. The best combination of the testing parameters could be determined. A good agreement is found between the forecasted and actual weight loss. Application/Improvement: The most influencing parameters involved tribiological industries are speed, load, time and indirectly sliding velocity were considered throughout the theoretical investigation.

Patients' Preoperative Estimate of Target Weight and Actual Outcome after Bariatric Surgery.

Evidence about the impact of psychological factors on weight loss after bariatric surgery is scarce. This study explores whether patients' preoperative estimate of target weight influences actual weight loss for different types of bariatric procedures. Patients eligible for bariatric surgery were instructed twice on how to calculate their expected target weight. They were divided into three groups based on their percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) and percentage total body weight loss (%TBWL). Weight loss 12 and 24months after surgery was analyzed for each group and per type of surgery. Six hundred fifty-six patients participated in this study. Types of surgery performed were the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB, 75%), sleeve gastrectomy (SG, 8.1%), REDO-RYGB (12.5%), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB, 4.4%). Data of 622 and 410 patients were available for analysis at 12 and 24months, respectively. Surprisingly, 415 patients (63.3%) overestimated their expected weight loss as opposed to our calculation, based on our own historic data. One hundred thirty-four patients (20.4%) estimated their weight loss correctly and 107 patients (16.3%) underestimated their weight loss. There was a significant higher %EWL 12months after RYGB surgery for patients who overestimated their weight loss compared to those who estimated their weight loss correctly (p=0.001). After 24months and for other types of procedures, no statistically significant differences were found between the three groups. Despite instructions on how to calculate target weight, the majority of patients overestimated their weight loss. Actual %EWL 12months after RYGB surgery might be influenced by setting a low target weight.

Weight Loss after 5, 10, 15, and 20 Cold Wrap Treatments in a Private Slimming Center in the Philippines

Introduction: Cold Wraps have been used by slimming centers in Switzerland since the 1960’s to lose weight by reactive thermogenesis. Being warm-blooded, we need to maintain a homeostatic temperature so exposure to cold with resultant hypothermia would signal the body to burn fat. Cold Wraps were a novel idea and it boasts of being able to burn as much as a thousand calories for each treatment done for only several minutes but whose effect lasts for 2-3 days. Though a few studies have been done to show that Cold exposure increases Calorie Burning, there has been no documentation on its end result of producing actual concrete weight loss results. Materials and Methods: A random sample of 325 patients in a private slimming centre in the Philippines was chosen. After application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 64 patients remained. All had 5 Cold Wrap treatments, but only 46 continued to have 10 Cold Wrap treatments, 22 continued to have 15 Cold Wrap treatments, and 8 continued to have 20 Cold Wrap treatments. Subjects were existing patients several months to a couple of years before the data was collected in December of 1998. Results: The average weight loss after 5 Cold Wrap treatments by mean is 3.22 lbs. (206.66/64), by mode is 2 lbs. (13 patients), and by median is 5.4 lbs. (highest 10 lbs., lowest 0.8 lbs.). The average weight loss after 10 Cold Wrap treatments by mean is 5.51 lbs. (253.36/46), by mode is 5 lbs. (5 patients), and by median is 8.5 lbs. (highest 15 lbs., lowest 2 lbs.). The average weight loss after 15 Cold Wrap treatments by mean is 9.67 lbs. (212.76/22), by mode is 7 & 10 lbs. (3 patients), and by median is 9 lbs. (highest 14 lbs., lowest 4 lbs.). The average weight loss after 20 Cold Wrap treatments by mean is 10.39 lbs. (83.1/8), by mode is 5 lbs. (2 patients), and by median is 9.75 lbs. (highest 14.5 lbs., lowest 5 lbs.). The average weight loss per treatment for the first 5 treatments (1st to 5th) is 0.644 lbs. (3.22/5), second 5 treatments (6th to 10th) is 0.458 lbs. (2.29/5), third 5 treatments (11th to 15th) is 0.832 lbs. (4.16/5), and the fourth 5 treatments (16th to 20th) is 0.144 lbs. (0.72/5). The overall average weight loss per treatment (1st to 20th) is 0.5195 lbs. (2.078/4). Conclusion: There is weight loss after Cold Wrap treatments in a private Slimming Centre in the Philippines. The average weight loss per treatment is 0.5195 lbs.

Factors influencing engagement in postnatal weight management and weight and wellbeing outcomes

Background: Many women exceed gestational weight gain recommendations. Successful postnatal weight management decreases the risk of entering further pregnancies obese. Aims: This service evaluation investigates women's motivations to lose weight postnatally, the weight loss achieved and the impact on the women's self-esteem. Methods: An online survey was used, with quantitative questions to determine motivation and lifestyle behaviours related to postnatal weight management in women attending a commercial weight management organisation. Weekly weights were confirmed from digitally recorded data. Findings: A total of 1015 women responded. Mean body mass index at joining was 33.3 kg/m2 ± 5.85 and, when surveyed, 30.5 kg/m2 ± 5.86, a change of –2.8 ± 0.1 kg/m² (P &lt; 0.01; 95% CI 2.76–3.11). 463 women (45.6%) joined the groups between 6–26 weeks postnatal. The main motivators to lose weight were to ‘improve how I feel about my body size and shape’ (85.2%) and ‘improve self-confidence’ (76.6%); however, only ‘to improve my health’ (65.6%) correlated with actual weight loss (0.114, P &lt; 0.01). Health professionals' recommendation was less of a reason (6.5%). Improvements in self-confidence (77.6%), self-esteem (78.6%), wellbeing (85.2%) and body size/shape (70.0%) were reported. Conclusions: Women chose to engage in the weight management service to improve their self-confidence, feelings about their body shape, and health. There is an opportunity for health professionals to encourage women early after giving birth to engage in weight loss, which may improve outcomes.

‘Now I care’: a qualitative study of how overweight adolescents managed their weight in the transition to adulthood

ObjectivesA qualitative study of recalled experiences of early adolescent overweight/obesity revealed low levels of weight-related concern. This further analysis aimed to explore weight-related concern and weight-loss efforts as participants transitioned...

Stochastic Differential Equation Models for the Wear of Coins in Circulation

The wear of coins in circulation is mathematically examined. It is assumed that high points on the coin surface wear at a greater rate than low points. Based on this hypothesis, deterministic and stochastic differential equation models for the dynamical wear of coins in circulation are derived from physical principles. The mathematical models are solved and compared. The models agree with and explain the actual weight loss behavior of coins in circulation. As an application of the models, a quantitative parameter of coin condition is studied.

Do Bioimpedance Measurements of Over-Hydration Accurately Reflect Post-Haemodialysis Weight Changes?

Introduction: Bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) devices are being used to determine ultrafiltration requirements to achieve target weight for haemodialysis (HD) patients. Pre-dialysis measurements are more convenient for both patients and staff. We wished to compare the changes in pre- and post-dialysis hydration measured by BIS with actual weight loss. Methods: We compared paired BIS measurements made pre and post HD using a BIS device based on a 3-compartmental model, designed to provide information on extracellular water (ECW) excess. Results: BIS was measured in 49 HD patients, 35 male (71.4%) with mean age 67.6 ± 14.2. Weight fell significantly from 69.2 ± 17.8 to 67.6 ± 17.4 kg, and BIS over hydration (OH) from 4.5 ± 3.3.4 to 3.4 ± 2.9 litres, and ECW from 16.8 ± 4.8 to 15.5 ± 4.4 litres, but there was no change in the amount of intracellular water. Weight loss correlated positively with the change in ECW, but exceeded the fall in OH; mean bias -0.58 (95% confidence limits -3.6 to 4.8 kg). Summary: We measured OH pre and post HD, but did not find that the change in OH correlated with changes in body weight. Although there was a correlation between changes in OH and ECW, there was none for weight. Our findings do not support total reliance on pre-dialysis BIS alone for assessing volume status in HD patients, but rather BIS should be considered an aid to clinical assessment of volume status.

The effect of communicating the genetic risk of cardiometabolic disorders on motivation and actual engagement in preventative lifestyle modification and clinical outcome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Genetic risk prediction of chronic conditions including obesity, diabetes and CVD currently has limited predictive power but its potential to engage healthy behaviour change has been of immense research interest. We aimed to understand whether the latter is indeed true by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating whether genetic risk communication affects motivation and actual behaviour change towards preventative lifestyle modification. We included all randomised controlled trials (RCT) since 2003 investigating the impact of genetic risk communication on health behaviour to prevent cardiometabolic disease, without restrictions on age, duration of intervention or language. We conducted random-effects meta-analyses for perceived motivation for behaviour change and clinical changes (weight loss) and a narrative analysis for other outcomes. Within the thirteen studies reviewed, five were vignette studies (hypothetical RCT) and seven were clinical RCT. There was no consistent effect of genetic risk on actual motivation for weight loss, perceived motivation for dietary change (control v. genetic risk group standardised mean difference (smd) -0·15; 95 % CI -1·03, 0·73, P=0·74) or actual change in dietary behaviour. Similar results were observed for actual weight loss (control v. high genetic risk SMD 0·29 kg; 95 % CI -0·74, 1·31, P=0·58). This review found no clear or consistent evidence that genetic risk communication alone either raises motivation or translates into actual change in dietary intake or physical activity to reduce the risk of cardiometabolic disorders in adults. Of thirteen studies, eight were at high or unclear risk of bias. Additional larger-scale, high-quality clinical RCT are warranted.