Initial Weight Change Research Articles

Initial weight loss and early intervention adherence predict long-term weight loss during the Promoting Successful Weight Loss in Primary Care in Louisiana lifestyle intervention.

This study tested whether initial weight change (WC), self-weighing, and adherence to the expected WC trajectory predict longer-term WC in an underserved primary-care population with obesity. Data from the intervention group (n = 452; 88% women; 74% Black; BMI 37.3 kg/m2 [SD: 4.6]) of the Promoting Successful Weight Loss in Primary Care in Louisiana trial were analyzed. Initial (2-, 4-, and 8-week) percentage WC was calculated from baseline clinic weights and daily at-home weights. Weights were considered adherent if they were on the expected WC trajectory (10% at 6 months with lower [7.5%] and upper [12.5%] bounds). Linear mixed-effects models tested whether initial WC and the number of daily and adherent weights predicted WC at 6, 12, and 24 months. Percentage WC during the initial 2, 4, and 8 weeks predicted percentage WC at 6 (R2 = 0.15, R2 = 0.28, and R2 = 0.50), 12 (R2 = 0.11, R2 = 0.19, and R2 = 0.32), and 24 (R2 = 0.09, R2 = 0.11, and R2 = 0.16) months (all p < 0.01). Initial daily and adherent weights were significantly associated with WC as individual predictors, but they only marginally improved predictions beyond initial weight loss alone in multivariable models. These results highlight the importance of initial WC for predicting long-term WC and show that self-weighing and adherence to the expected WC trajectory can improve WC prediction.

Long-term weight changes are associated with initial weight changes after nonalcoholic fatty liver disease diagnosis

Weight loss is the mainstay of treatment of NAFLD, but longitudinal data on weight changes and their impact on liver disease are limited. We aimed to characterize weight trajectory up to 5 years of follow-up, effects of weight loss on liver enzyme levels, and predictors of weight loss in NAFLD. This was a single-center retrospective study of consecutive patients with hepatic steatosis diagnosed on imaging, liver biopsy, or transient elastography between 2010 and 2020. The primary outcome was ≥5% weight change at 1-2 years. Secondary outcomes were weight change at 4-5 years and alanine aminotransferase level at 1-2 and 4-5 years. We conducted multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of ≥5% weight loss at 1-2 years. We included 11,559 patients with NAFLD. At year 1-2, 27% had ≥5% weight loss, whereas 26% had ≥5% weight gain. Total 59% and 68% of patients with weight loss and gain, respectively, sustained their weight change by year 4-5. Patients with weight loss at year 1-2 had lower alanine aminotransferase levels at year 1-2 and 4-5. Predictors of ≥5% weight loss included female sex, severe obesity, diabetes, and consultation with a dietitian or pharmacist. Over half of patients with NAFLD had ≥5% weight loss or gain within 1-2 years, and these changes were usually sustained at 4-5 years. Intensive intervention early after NAFLD diagnosis may result in long-term weight loss and decreased NAFLD disease activity.

Patterns of body weight change affect weight loss during a multidisciplinary intervention in adolescents with obesity

AimThe current pediatric obesity health challenge necessitates a better understanding of the factors affecting weight loss success during interventions. The aim of this observational study was to test the impact of the rate of initial weight loss and body weight variability on weight loss during a 9-month residential, multidisciplinary weight loss program in adolescents with obesity. MethodsThis retrospective study considered a whole sample of 510 adolescents with obesity (12–16 years, 435 girls). Body weight assessment was performed before (T0) and each week during the 9 months of a multidisciplinary weight loss program. Initial weight change (week 4-W4) and overall weight change at week 12 (T1) and the end of the intervention (T2) were considered. Participants were divided into three groups (tertiles), based on their percentage of weight loss between T0 and W4; and weight variability was expressed by the root mean square error (RMSE) around each participant’s regression line at each considered period (W4, T1, T2). ResultsAdolescents with lower initial weight loss at W4 (tertile 3) displayed the lesser weight loss at T1 and T2 compared with adolescents in tertile 1 and 2. The RMSE was positively associated with the percentage of weight loss of the period considered, but when the analyses were adjusted for age and initial body weight, there was no more significant association. ConclusionsThe rate of weight loss during the first few weeks is crucial for weight loss success, and weight variability is positively associated with weight loss in adolescents with obesity. Overall, results show that initial body weight is a determinant characteristic to consider during a lifestyle intervention. Further studies are thus needed to better understand the relationship between body weight change patterns and weight loss during the dynamic state that is adolescence.

Initial Weight Change and Long-Term Changes in Weight and Compensation during Supervised Exercise Training.

Our primary aim was to investigate the association between initial weight change and longer-term changes in weight and compensation (predicted weight loss-observed weight loss) during exercise. As secondary aims, we investigated if initial weight change was related to change in cardiometabolic risk markers and energy balance modulators. Two 6-month randomized controlled exercise trials conducted in individuals with overweight or obesity were analyzed (study 1, n = 312; study 2, n = 102). In both studies, participants in an exercise condition (4 kcal·kg-1·wk-1 [KKW], 8 KKW, 12 KKW, or 20 KKW) were split into tertiles based on percent weight change from baseline to week 4. Tertiles 1 and 3 exhibited the least and most initial weight loss, respectively. Changes in end points were compared between tertiles. At month 6, weight loss was lower in tertile 1 than tertile 3 (study 1: -3.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -4.6 to -2.6; study 2: -1.8%, 95% CI = -3.1 to -0.4; P ≤ 0.034). Tertile 1 also showed greater compensation than tertile 3 in study 1 (3.0 kg, 95% CI = 2.2 to 3.9) and study 2 (1.5 kg, 95% CI = 0.3 to 2.6; P ≤ 0.048). Changes in triglycerides and, in study 1, HDL cholesterol were less favorable in tertile 1 versus tertile 3 (P ≤ 0.043); however, changes in other cardiometabolic markers were similar (P ≥ 0.209). In study 2, tertile 1 increased energy intake and exhibited maladaptive changes in eating behaviors relative to tertile 3 (P < 0.050). No between-tertile differences in cumulative exercise energy expenditure and physical activity were evident (P ≥ 0.321). Less initial weight loss was associated with longer-term attenuated weight loss and greater compensation during aerobic exercise training. Individuals who display less initial weight loss during exercise may require early interventions to decrease compensation and facilitate weight loss.

Restocking extensive mountain areas with young ewes—does origin matter?

Recent renewed drives to maintain farming activities on extensive areas have been encouraged at the EU level, which previously had witnessed a phenomenon of partial abandonment and reduction in flock sizes. Successful restocking with naïve animals from outwith the farm is a challenge, as these animals are not familiar with the landscape and may lack the social interactions and ‘hefting’ qualities their homebred counterparts develop. This paper presents results from an experiment where young ewes from different origins (homebred and bought-in) were reintroduced onto a mountain range grazing area. Focal animals of both types were monitored using GPS tracking collars over a one year period whilst performance was recorded for the whole flock over a two year period, to gauge whether or not their origin had an influence on ranging behaviour and performance. Although initially the bought-in animals developed their own home range and interacted little with the main flock, after one summer grazing period they appeared to learn from and socially interact with their homebred counterparts, developing a knowledge of the grazing landscape. Despite initial weight change differences, later performance results of the animals were not affected by their origin. Provided that animals are encouraged and given opportunity to socially interact with the main homebred flock, this study indicates that it is feasible to restock extensive farms with animals from different origins.

Determinants of Weight Loss in an Interdisciplinary Long-Term Care Program for Childhood Obesity

Background. Efforts are needed to improve the long-term efficiency of childhood obesity treatment. To adapt strategies, the identification of subgroups of patients with a greater weight loss may be useful. Objective. To analyze the results of a chronic care program for childhood obesity and to determine baseline factors (medical, dietary, and psychosocial) associated with successful weight loss. Subjects and Method. We set up a family-targeted and individually adapted interdisciplinary long-term care program. We reviewed the medical files of 144 children (59 boys and 85 girls; 10.5 ± 3.1 y; mean BMI-z-score: 2.73 ± 0.62) who had ≥2 interdisciplinary visits and ≥1-year treatment. Results. Mean treatment length was 2.2 y (1–6.7 y) with 3 ± 1 visits/year. The duration of treatment did not depend on the initial weight loss, but this was predictive of the weight change over time. Furthermore any additional weight loss was observed with time whatever the initial weight change. High levels of physical activity and daily water intake from baseline conditions were associated with a greater weight loss after 9 months of intervention. In contrast, a high baseline consumption of soft drinks resulted in lower weight loss. Family specific factors such as being a single child or the child's family support were identified as baseline factors which may contribute to better results. Conclusion. Our study suggests that the benefit of a chronic weight control program supports the need for its integration into the current concept of treatment. Better prevention policy and parental support may improve the success of the childhood obesity treatment.

Change in body image and psychological well-being during behavioral obesity treatment: Associations with weight loss and maintenance

This study reports on outcomes from a behavioral obesity treatment program, evaluating if treatment-related changes in body image and psychological well-being are predictors of weight change during treatment and after follow-up. Participants were 142 overweight/obese women ( BMI = 30.2 ± 3.7 kg/m 2; age = 38.3 ± 5.8 years) participants in a behavioral treatment program consisting of a 4-month treatment period and a 12-month follow-up. Psychosocial variables improved during treatment and these changes were correlated with 4-month weight reduction. Short-term changes in body size dissatisfaction ( p = .002) and mood ( p = .003) predicted long-term weight loss. Additional results suggest that there might be a predictive role of short-term changes in body size dissatisfaction and self-esteem on long-term weight loss after accounting for initial weight change ( p < .028). We conclude that, along with weight changes, cognitive and affect-related processes influenced during obesity treatment may be related long-term success, in some cases independently of initial weight loss.

Ablation behavior of ZrB 2–SiC–ZrO 2 ceramic composites by means of the oxyacetylene torch

Ablation behavior of ZrB 2–SiC–ZrO 2 ceramics with two ZrO 2 contents was investigated using oxyacetylene torch. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated that ceramic with 10 vol% ZrO 2 showed initial weight change at higher temperature than the one with 20 vol% ZrO 2. After same ablation condition, lighter oxidized microstructure and lower weight loss and line gain were obtained from ceramic with 10 vol% ZrO 2. Ablation mechanism revealed that excessive ZrO 2 would supply much path to the inward transport of oxygen, which led to the dissatisfactory resistance to oxidation and ablation for the ceramic with 20 vol% ZrO 2.

Effectiveness of Web-based interventions in Achieving Weight Loss and Maintenance in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review.

Review Question/Objective The primary objective of this review is to identify the effectiveness of web-based interventions on weight loss and maintenance. The second objective is to identify the effectiveness of web-based interventions on behaviours associated with weight loss (eating and physical activity). The third objective is to identify what components of web-based interventions are associated with greater weight loss and maintenance, as well as lower attrition rates. Criteria for Inclusion Types of participants The quantitative component of this review will consider studies that include overweight and/or obese adults, aged greater than 18 years. Overweight and obesity will be defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 25(kg/m2). Types of intervention(s) The quantitative component of the review will consider studies that evaluate web-based interventions with the primary aim of achieving weight loss or weight maintenance following weight loss. This includes studies with the aim of achieving positive dietary and physical activity behaviour change for participants that include overweight/obesity outcome measures. However, if the stated aim is to achieve positive dietary and physical activity behaviour change for participants, and they do not include overweight/obesity outcome measures they will be excluded. At least one arm of the study must include a web-based intervention. A web-based intervention will be based around a website that participants receive information from and directly interface with. They are not required to input information into the website for the intervention to be included. Types of outcomes This review will consider studies that include the following outcome measures: Primary Outcome: Overweight/obesity related outcomes: weight (kg), % body weight lost, BMI, waist measurements, % body fat, % lost 5% of body weight. Secondary Outcomes: Dietary behaviours: energy intake, core food group intake (e.g. number of serves of fruit per day), macronutrient composition of diet (e.g. fat intake per day) Physical activity behaviours: energy expenditure, time spent in activity, steps per day. Effect modifiers/confounders: Compliance/engagement with website: website logins, completion of self-monitoring diaries, attendance at meetings/group discussions, retention etc Adjuncts to web-based intervention (e.g. contact with professional/face to face contact, other eHealth technology such as SMS, email, CD-Rom, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) and use of rewards/prizes) Intervention based on theoretical models Intensity of web-based intervention: type and number of features included (e.g. self-monitoring diary, chat room, discussion board)

Pattern of change of weight following birth in the early neonatal period

Birth weight of new born will vary according to gestational age, maternal, Placental and foetal intrauterine conditions. Postnatal weight change in the first few days of life (early neonatal period) may vary according to gestational age and birth weight. This may create problem in management of these babies. Birth weight and their pattern of change were followed on 105 newborns. Questionnaire and observation charts were the research Instruments and statistical analysis were done by using manual calculator. It was observed that full term newborns had better control on initial weight change following birth than preterm and low birth weight babies. Majority of term newborns loss their weight up to 5 days of life and regained their initial weight by 10 days. Maximum weight loss for longer duration occurred in preterm and very low birth weight babies who regained their initial weight by 10 - 14 days and some required more than 21 days.

Dietary fiber intake and initial weight change inthe ‘reasonable eating and activity to change health’ (reach) trial

Dietary fiber intake and initial weight change inthe ‘reasonable eating and activity to change health’ (reach) trial

POSTNATAL WEIGHT LOSS AND REGAINING OF BIRTH WEIGHT IN VLBW INFANTS REFLECT EXTRACELLULAR VOLUME CHANGES AND NOT NUTRITIONAL STATUS

Do initial weight changes under the usual restrictive fluid therapy in premature infants reflect water balance or nutritional status? We studied in 8 premature infants (GA 26-29 wks, on respirator) total body water TBW (D2O space),body solids (weight-TBW), extracellular volume ECV (sucrose space) and intracellular volume ICV (TBW-ECV) at birth, at maximal weight loss and when birth weight was regained. Weight (-79g), TBW (-95ml) and ECV (-80ml) initially decreased (p<:*0.01;**0.001), body solids and ICV did not change. During subsequent weight gain there was a trend of TBW and ECV to return to initial levels. Caloric intake was borderline to meet basal metabolic needs, but even at study end not sufficient for growth.Conclusion: Postnatal weight loss is loss of body water from the ECV, subsequent weight gain is restauration of fluid volumes towards initial levels.

Schistosoma mansoni: Measurement of Na + ion activity in the tegument and the extracellular spaces using ion-selective microelectrodes

Ion-selective microelectrodes were used to measure sodium ion activity ( a Na) in the tegument and interstitial spaces in adult male Schistosoma mansoni. In RPMI 1640, a Na averaged 31 ± 13 m M in the tegument, a value significantly less than that in the bathing medium. In the interstitial spaces, it averaged 72 ± 17 m M, a value nearly the same as that in the bathing medium. In hypo- or hyperosmotic media, a Na in the interstitial spaces varied by a value commensurate with change in a Na in the medium, but a Na in the tegument was changed by only a small amount. Monensin (10 μ M), low temperature (20 C), and ouabain (0.3 to 10 μ M) all caused significant increases in a Na in the tegument. Hypo- and hyperosmotic media produced initial weight changes followed by gradual recovery back toward original weights. It is concluded that the schistosome is a volume regulating osmoconformer with osmolality of the extracellular fluid approximating that of the bathing medium, but that within the tegument of the parasite, Na + concentration is controlled by active transport processes.

Osmoregulatory changes during the aquatic-to-terrestrial transition in the rough-skinned newt, Taricha granulosa: The roles of temperature and ACTH

Aquatic breeding-condition newts kept at 5, 11, or 18° showed temperature-dependent changes in body weight (BW), tail height, plasma [Na +], hematocrit, integumental osmotic permeability, urine production, and transepithelial potential. Net urine production could account for the change in weight observed in animals kept at 11 and 18°, suggesting that initial weight change results from a reduction in extracellular volume. Weight loss was correlated with increased hematocrit and plasma [Na +]. In another experiment, newts were sham-hypophysectomized (sham-HX) or hypophysectomized (HX) and injected with saline, ovine prolactin (PRL), ovine growth hormone (GH), or porcine adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and maintained at 5° for 13 days. All animals lost 3–7% of their initial BW. Plasma [Na +] was reduced in animals injected with hormone compared with both sham-operated and saline-injected controls. Following an increase in water temperature to 11° for 13 days, weight loss in sham-operated and ACTH-injected newts increased to 16% of BW compared with a total of 4–8% in newts injected with PRL, GH, or saline. In this experiment also, loss of body weight was correlated with increased plasma [Na +]. Although measurements of plasma Na + concentrations indicated that ACTH caused “sodium retention”, estimates of changes in total extracellular Na + revealed that both sham-operated and ACTH-injected newts experienced a net sodium loss. In Taricha granulosa, warm temperatures and ACTH (presumably acting via interrenal hormones) appear necessary for the fluid and electrolyte loss which accompanies the transition from the aquatic to the terrestrial condition.