Reduction In Fat-free Mass Research Articles

The Effects of Special Force Training on Energy Balance and Body Composition

Small Unit Tactics (SUT), an intense 64-d phase during the Special Forces Qualification Course, trains Soldiers in performing typical combat missions. This training is designed to realistically simulate combat operations. By assessing energy expenditures of Soldiers in SUT, we can obtain insights into nutritional requirements of Soldiers conducting combat operations. To date no study has systematically examined energy balance during these 9 weeks of rigorous training. PURPOSE: Measure energy expenditure / intake and changes in body composition of Soldiers participating in the SUT course. METHODS: Total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) was measured using doubly labeled water (D218O). Energy intake (EI) was calculated by subtracting energy in returned foods from known energy in distributed foods. Body composition was assessed before and at completion of SUT, using skinfolds. RESULTS: TDEE data was collected from 46 Soldiers, while pre/post body composition data was limited to 28 Soldiers due to attrition. Participants were 28 ± 4 years old, 177 ± 6 cm tall and had an initial body weight of 84 ± 7 kg. Mean TDEE was 4,501 ± 993 kcal/d (18.8 ± 4.2 kJ/d), with daily EI being 3803 ± 932 kcal/d (15.9 ± 3.9 kJ/d) (p < 0.01). The ∼15% energy deficit resulted in an average 4.2 kg weight loss (p < 0.01), with fat mass (FM) decreased 2.8 kg (p < 0.01), and a reduction in fat-free mass (FFM) of 1.4 kg (p < 0.02), representing 59 and 41% of total weight loss, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The high TDEE associated with SUT training and inadequate EI leads to an energy deficit which promotes reductions in weight, FM and FFM, similar to changes reportedly experienced during combat training. Soldiers may benefit from an altered feeding regimen or utilization of different rations to maintain energy balance during SUT. Interventions that successfully mitigate this energy deficit and prevent weight and fat free loss during SUT may also be effective nutritional countermeasures for use during combat operations. Supported by U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command

A Diet Containing Whey Protein, Free Glutamine, and Transforming Growth Factor-β Ameliorates Nutritional Outcome and Intestinal Mucositis during Repeated Chemotherapeutic Challenges in Rats1–

Anticancer chemotherapy often induces side effects such as mucositis. Recent data suggest that a diet, Clinutren Protect (CP), containing whey proteins, glutamine, and transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)-rich casein limits intestinal mucositis and improves recovery after a single methotrexate (MTX) challenge in rats. Chemotherapy consists of alternating periods of treatment and rest. Thus, our study evaluated the effects of CP on nutritional outcome and intestinal mucositis in rats receiving repeated chemotherapeutic challenges. Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats received 3 cycles of MTX at 8-d intervals. Rats had free access to CP or control diet (Co) from 7 d before the first MTX injection until the end of the experiment at d 27. In Co, whey proteins and TGFβ-rich casein were replaced by TGFβ-free casein. L-Glutamine was replaced by L-alanine. Body composition was assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Before MTX challenges, food intake and body weight were similar in both groups but became higher during MTX challenges in CP (P < 0.05). Fat mass decreased similarly in both groups. In contrast, the decrease of fat free mass between d −1 and d 27 was less pronounced in the CP group (−9.5 g) than in the Co group (−57.2 g) (P < 0.05). The intestinal damage score was lower in the CP group (0.6 ± 0.3 vs. 2.1 ± 0.6; P < 0.05). Fecal IgA increased over time in the CP group (P < 0.05) but not in the Co group. A diet containing whey proteins, glutamine, and TGFβ improves nutritional outcome by limiting the reduction of fat free mass and reduces intestinal mucositis during repeated chemotherapeutic challenges in rats.

Protein supplementation during 6 mo weight loss enhances body composition changes in older women

Adverse increases in adiposity and reductions in fat free mass (FFM) are age related changes in body composition and are linked to declines in physical function in older women. Higher protein intake in weight loss may augment fat mass (FM) loss and attenuate FFM loss, which may benefit function. This study assessed effects of 6 mo weight loss supplemented with powdered protein or placebo on body composition and function in older obese women. Women (63.8±3.4 yrs, BMI 32.9±4.1 kg/m2) were prescribed an energy‐restricted diet (1500 kcal/d; 15, 65, 30% of energy from protein, CHO and fat, respectively) and randomly assigned to 2 × 25g/d of whey protein (PRO, n=8) or maltodextrin (CARB, n=7) supplementation. Measures included whole body FM and FFM with DXA; thigh muscle, subcutaneous (SUBQ), intermuscular and intramyocellular fat with MRI; knee extension and flexion strength with isokinetic dynamometry. PRO trended towards greater weight loss (−10.6±6.7%, −5.0±4.0%; p=0.078), had greater reductions in FM (−18.9±10.6%, −8.0±4.2%; p=0.024) than CARB, but no significant difference in FFM (−4.0±4.9%, −2.0±4.1%; p=0.414). %SUBQ thigh fat change (−6.1±3.0%, −1.3±1.7%; p=0.003) was the only significant MRI outcome. Groups did not differ in leg strength changes. Higher protein intake in weight loss in older women enhances FM reductions while preserving FFM; however, these changes do not impact changes in physical function.Grant Funding Source: National Dairy Council, Carraway Foundation

Relationship Between Basal Metabolic Rate, Gender, Age, and Body Composition in 8,780 White Obese Subjects

The objective of the present study was to explore the relationship between basal metabolic rate (BMR), gender, age, anthropometric characteristics, and body composition in severely obese white subjects. In total, 1,412 obese white children and adolescents (BMI > 97 degrees percentile for gender and age) and 7,368 obese adults (BMI > 30 kg/m(2)) from 7 to 74 years were enrolled in this study. BMR was measured using an indirect calorimeter equipped with a canopy and fat free mass (FFM) were obtained using tetrapolar bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Using analysis of covariance, we tested the effect of gender on the relationship between BMR, age, anthropometry, and body composition. In children and adolescents, the predictor x gender interaction was significant in all cases except for FFM x gender. In adults, all predictor x gender interactions were significant. A prediction equation based on body weight (BW), age, and gender had virtually the same accuracy of the one based on FFM, age, and gender to predict BMR in both children and adults (R(2)(adj) = 0.59 and 0.60, respectively). In conclusion, gender was a significant determinant of BMR in children and adolescents but not in adults. Our results support the hypothesis that the age-related decline in BMR is due to a reduction in FFM. Finally, anthropometric predictors of BMR are as accurate as body composition estimated by BIA.

Determinants of short-term changes in body composition following renal transplantation

Changes in body composition after renal transplantation (RTx) are of clinical significance, since increments in fat mass may contribute to glucose intolerance and cardiovascular morbidity. The aim of this study was to quantify the early changes in body composition after transplantation and identify predictors of these changes. Total and regional body composition of 102 first kidney allograft recipients were measured at transplantation and after 10 weeks using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The population comprised a high proportion of pre-emptive and well-nourished kidney recipients. Multiple linear regression was used to identify predictors of change. Mean fat mass was 27.1+/-8.7% of body weight at baseline. The fat mass percentage increased by 2.2% corresponding to a 1.3 kg increase in fat mass at 10 weeks (p< 0.001). Fat-free mass declined by 2.5 kg (p<0.001), with no significant loss of body weight (0.9 kg, p=0.11). Age, low-tertile fat mass, plasma C-reactive protein, time on dialysis and cumulative prednisolone dose were independent predictors (p<0.05) of the increase in fat mass. Cumulative prednisolone dose was the only significant predictor of decrease in fat-free mass. Essentially the same results were found for both genders. A significant increase in fat mass occurred rapidly after RTx along with a reduction in fat-free mass despite stable body weight. Early fat mass accumulation may predispose to comorbidity, but the long-term clinical significance of these early changes remains to be explored in prospective studies.

Effects of a Short-Term Resistance Program Using Elastic Bands Versus Weight Machines for Sedentary Middle-Aged Women

This study was designed to determine whether different effects on functional capacity and body composition were produced by using different devices (elastic bands (EBs) versus weight machines (WMs)) with the same resistance training program. Forty-five healthy sedentary middle-aged women volunteers were chosen and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: 21 subjects trained using EBs (EBG), 14 in trained using WMs (WMG), and 10 were controls (CG). Both exercise groups trained with a periodized muscular endurance program twice a week for 10 weeks, with a total of 6 exercises per session for the major muscle groups. Exercise intensity was equalized by jointly monitoring the same targeted number of repetitions (TNRs) and rate of perceived exertion in active muscles (RPE-AM). Functional capacity was assessed by using knee push-up (KPU) and 60-second squat (S) tests. Body composition was measured using an 8-polar bioelectrical impedance analyzer. The results for both the EBG and WMG show a decrease in fat mass (p = 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and an increase in both the fat-free mass (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and the number of repetitions in the KPU (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and S tests (p < 0.01 in both). None of the variables measured for the CG varied significantly. It can be concluded that, independently of the device used, the combined monitoring of TNRs and RPE-AM can be a valid tool for controlling the resistance exercise intensity and can lead to healthy adaptations. EBs can thus offer significant physiological benefits that are comparable to those obtained from WMs in the early phase of strength training of sedentary middle-aged women.

The Role Of Spasticity In Body Composition And Energy Expenditure After Spinal Cord Injury

Deterioration in body composition after spinal cord injury (SCI) is well documented. Individuals with SCI have a reduction in fat free mass (FFM) and increase fat mass (FM). Factors that might attenuate such deterioration are worth investigating. We have recently shown that spasticity, increased muscle tone, could defend against muscle atrophy. However, the effect of spasticity on whole body composition and energy expenditure is not well documented. PURPOSE: To determine the effect of spasticity on body composition and energy expenditure in chronic individuals with SCI. METHODS: Ten individuals with chronic SCI (33 ± 7 yrs old; 25 ± 4 Kg/m2; C6-T11; American Spinal Injury Association A and B) were recruited from the outpatient clinics of the University of Michigan. After being admitted to the General Clinical Research Center, the ten participants underwent assessment of their body composition using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry to measure their FFM and FM. Spasticity of the hip, knee and ankle flexors and extensors was measured using modified Ashworth Scale at 2, 5 and 8.00 pm. The average of the three time points was recorded. After overnight fasting, resting metabolic rate (RMR) using indirect calorimetry unit was assessed. RESULTS: The RMR was 1256 ± 231 Kcal/day. Their respiratory exchange ratio was 0.76 ± 0.05. FFM and FM were 64 ± 6 and 36 ± 6 %, respectively. Increased knee extensor spasticity was associated with greater total %FFM (r=0.64; P = 0.048). Additionally, knee extensor spasticity was associated with lower %FM (r = −0.66; P = 0.03). Increased FFM (Kg) was associated with higher RMR (r= 0.89; P= 0.0001). However, increasing spasticity did not appear related to RMR. CONCLUSIONS: Spasticity may help to defend deterioration in body composition after SCI and may indirectly influence RMR by maintaining FFM. Supported by STARS foundation, NIDRR (H133P030004) and GCRC (NIH-M01- RR000042) to ASG.

Hypermetabolism in ALS: Correlations with Clinical and Paraclinical Parameters

Despite a reduction in fat-free mass (FFM), a hypermetabolism has been reported with an average of 10% in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients as compared with a healthy population. The objectives of this study were to confirm the level of hypermetabolism determined by using indirect calorimetry in 168 patients with a probable or a definite ALS and to study correlations with survival. Consecutive evaluations of resting energy expenditure (REE) were performed from diagnosis to the proximity of death in 44 ALS patients. Differences with the calculated value determined a ΔREE. FFM was given by bioimpedance. At T₁, REE was significantly increased by an average of 14% as compared with the calculated value. 62.3% of ALS patients were considered as hypermetabolic. REE was correlated in univariate analysis with age, sex, clinical form at onset, presence of a denutrition, weight, FFM, phase angle and ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS). In multivariate analysis, REE was linked to age and FFM. ΔREE was correlated in univariate analysis with sex, phase angle and manual muscle testing (MMT). In multivariate analysis, age and sex remained significantly correlated. During progression of ALS, REE levels remained higher than calculated values with a trend to decrease at proximity of death, whereas FFM remained stable. From T₁, survival was linked to MMT, ALSFRS, vital capacity, REE and phase angle. We confirmed the existence of a stable hypermetabolic state in ALS which depends mainly on age, sex and FFM. REE is a prognostic factor for survival in univariate analysis.

Nutritional status and dietary patterns in disabled people

Background and aim Obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and osteoporosis are the most frequent pathologies among people with a severe reduction of physical activity. The impairment in nutritional status, consequent to quantitative and qualitative inadequacy of diet, could be one of the first steps in the development of co-morbidities in disabled subjects. In order to evaluate this hypothesis we investigated the nutritional status and the food intake in patients with physical or mental disabilities. Methods and results Thirty-seven disabled subjects (24 with exclusively physical inactivity and 13 with mental retardation and physical inactivity) mean age 33.5±9.2 years and 25 healthy subjects (mean age 31.0±9.3 years) were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements, indirect calorimetry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, dietary intake and biochemical parameters were collected for each subject. Forty percent of disabled were overweight and 14% were obese. Fat free mass (FFM) and bone mineral content (BMC) was lower and fat mass (FM) was higher than able-bodied control. Absolute resting energy expenditure (REE) was lower in disabled subjects, but this difference disappeared when REE was normalized to FFM. Dietary intake resulted unbalanced (16%, 31%, 50% of total daily energy intake derived from protein, lipid and carbohydrate respectively) with a distribution of dietary fatty acid quite far from the recommended ratio [3.1(SFA):4.1(MUFA):1.0(PUFA)] and an excessive consumption of simple carbohydrates (mean intake 17.5±4.9%). Insufficient intake of fibre, iron, calcium, potassium and zinc was also found. Finally, alterations in the cholesterol profile were evident in more than one third of the disabled subjects, whereas fasting glucose intolerance was evident in one fourth. Conclusion This study shows a consistent nutritional status impairment in disabled patients resulting in an reduction of FFM and BMC, in an over-representation of FM and in a number of biochemical risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The altered nutritional status is counterparted by a widespread inadequacy of dietary patterns. This nutritional and dietary impairment occurs both in subjects with mental and physical diseases.

Role of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels on body composition after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in pre-menopausal morbidly obese women

In humans, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) has been postulated to have anabolic and lipolytic properties that could potentially counteract the catabolic effect of cortisol. DHEAS secretion is reduced in morbid obesity, likely due to hyperinsulinemia, and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LASGB), by inducing considerable and rapid weight loss, reduces insulin levels. To investigate the role of decreased insulin levels after LASGB-induced weight loss on DHEAS levels and on body composition changes, we studied 30 pre-menopausal morbidly obese women (BMI ranging 37-62 kg/m2) before, 6, 12 and 24 months after LASGB. Total body water (TBW), fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM) were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis; tissue hydration was also assessed by impedance vector analysis. At study ending, the subjects had a total weight loss of 28% of baseline body weight (15% after 6 months). After LASGB, weight loss was mainly due to decreased FM, and TBW, FFM, and body hydration were not significantly reduced. Weight loss was associated with an 82% rise in serum DHEAS already after 6 months while cortisol, cortisol/DHEAS molar ratio, and insulin levels fell by 5.5, 62 and 50%, respectively, after 6, 12 and 24 months (p<0.05). LASGB associated with a well balanced low-calorie diet permits a satisfactory 2-yr weight loss, sparing FFM and without body fluid alterations. As the result of a stable weight reduction program weight loss is associated to decrease in cortisol, cortisol/DHEAS molar ratio, and insulin plasma levels with marked rise in DHEAS. Higher cortisol/DHEAS molar ratio values at baseline are also associated to lower weight loss after LASGB, with lower decrease in FM and higher reduction in FFM and body cell mass, in spite of no differences in dietary regimes. Cortisol/DHEAS molar ratio is likely to represent a reliable marker of favourable modifications in body composition.

Prediction Equations Overestimate Resting Metabolic Rate of Spinal Cord Injured Athletes

Decreased RMR is associated with an increased risk for obesity in the spinal cord injured (SCI) population. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) prediction equations overestimate RMR of people with SCI. Decreased RMR in SCI individuals is thought to be due to decreased physical activity and reductions in fat free mass (FFM). PURPOSE To determine RMR in SCI athletes, and compare measured RMR with the Harris-Benedict (1919), Cunningham et al. (1980) and Buchholz et al. (2003) prediction equations. METHODS RMR and FFM were measured in 11 college-aged (21.1±2.2 y), paraplegic wheelchair athletes (5M, 6F) of which 5 had sustained SCI from trauma (1M, 4F), 4 had spina bifida (3M, 1F), and 2 (1M, 1F) from other causes. Injury levels were between T3-L5. Average time since injury was 17.6 y (range = 10 to 25 y). Athletes were members of a national team and/or currently participated in the university's wheelchair athletics program, which includes 12 hrs/wk of sport specific practice and 3 weight-lifting sessions/wk. RMR was measured in early morning in a fasting state on an out-patient basis, using indirect calorimetry (Deltatrac II Metabolic Monitor, Sensormedics). Body composition was measured using DXA (Hologic QDR-4500A). Cunningham et al. equation [RMR (kcal) = 501.6 + 21.6 (FFM, kg)] has been found to be accurate for highly active people. Buchholz et al. equation [RMR (kJ/d) = 10682–1238(In age) - 521(sex = 0 for men, = 1 for women) - 24(height, cm) +87(FFM, kg)] was developed using paraplegics. RESULTS Mean height and weight were lower than expected for athletes (M±SD: M = 171.8±7.2 cm, 68.3±8.1 kg and F = 152.2±3.4 cm, 50.0±7.5 kg). Expectedly, relative body fat for men and women was higher than typical for athletes (M = 22.6±7.5%, F = 32.7±3.9%) partially due to a reduction in FFM (M = 52.1±6.4 kg, F = 33.3±4.0 kg). Harris-Benedict predicted RMR was significantly higher than actual RMR (1501±236 vs. 1337±291 kcal, p = 0.001) with males having a higher measured RMR than females (1598±187 kcal vs. 1120±129 kcal) as expected due to FFM differences. When prediction equations accounted for FFM using Cunningham et al (1980) and SCI status using Buchholz et al. (2003), RMR was still significantly overestimated (1406±237 kcal, p = 0.039; 1530±223 kcal, p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS RMR prediction equations overestimate RMR in people with SCI, an effect that is not ameliorated by high-level participation in physical activity. Further research is needed to determine RMR of physically active SCI and sedentary SCI individuals toward the end of improving obesity prevention initiatives in this population at increased risk for obesity-related diseases. Supported by: UIUC MJ Neer Grant

Resting energy expenditure in Duchenne patients using home mechanical ventilation

Nutritional status is both important and difficult to assess in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), particularly in those requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). The current authors evaluated body composition (bio-impedancemetry), resting energy expenditure (REE; indirect calorimetry) and energy intake in 20 adult patients with DMD using home MV (nocturnal: n = 13; continuous: n = 7) and 12 age-matched healthy controls. The patients were smaller in height than the controls and had a lower body weight. Most of the reduction in body mass index was accounted for by a reduction in fat free mass (FFM). REE (kJ) was significantly reduced in the patients (4559+/-853 kJ x 24 h(-1) versus 7407+/-1312 kJ x 24 h(-1)), but the difference disappeared after correction for FFM. REE and FFM were correlated in both the controls and patients, but less strongly in the latter, the lower strength of the association being due to the patients using continuous MV (REE and FFM uncorrelated). The food intake of the patients was 1.2+/-0.4 greater than their REE. This study shows that patients with advanced forms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy have balanced energy intakes and resting energy expenditure.

Effects of laparoscopic gastric banding on body composition, metabolic profile and nutritional status of obese women: 12-months follow-up.

Obesity is frequently associated with metabolic and cardiovascular co-morbidities and high mortality rates. Besides, because of the increasingly recognized fact that conservative therapy for morbid obesity is associated with an almost 90-95% failure rate in the long term, and probably because of the development of laparoscopic surgery,the demand for bariatric surgery is increasing rapidly. The significant weight loss observed during the first 6-12 months after gastric banding is related to the severe food restriction, related hypercatabolism, and has a potential risk of mineral and vitamin deficiencies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of gastric banding on total body composition, metabolic profile and nutritional status. 31 women were studied with median age 36 years (range 25-52), body weight 118.6 kg (range 98-156), BMI 43.6 kg/m(2) (range 36-56 kg/m(2)), percentage of excess body weight (%EW) of 107% (range 72- 166%), waist 115 cm (range 98-132) and hip 138 cm (range 119-155). Total body composition was measured before, 6 and 12 months after laparoscopic gastric banding, using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Metabolic and nutritional profile were evaluated before and 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postoperatively. There was a 23.3% reduction of total body weight and 36.8% reduction of body fat. Unfortunately we also observed a reduction of Fat Free Mass (FFM) of 9.6%. In addition, the major determinants of weight loss were the initial body weight and abdominal distribution of fat mass. Reduction of FFM was positively correlated with the rapidity of weight loss. A significant improvement of glucidic profile was observed, with disappearance of impaired fasting glucose, and normalization of the values of triglycerides in all patients. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome decreased from 89% in preoperative conditions to 15% 1 year after gastric banding. No major nutritional deficiencies was found following gastric banding. This prospective study suggests that the first 6 months postoperatively are crucial for weight loss and changes in body composition. Furthermore, the significant reduction of body weight is accompanied by an important improvement of biological abnormalities.

The Age-Related Decline in Resting Energy Expenditure in Humans Is Due to the Loss of Fat-Free Mass and to Alterations in Its Metabolically Active Components

There is conflicting evidence as to whether the age-related decline in resting energy expenditure (REE) can be attributed to i) absolute changes in fat-free mass (FFM), ii) alterations in the composition of FFM or iii) decreasing organ metabolic rates. This study directly addressed the first and second hypotheses by quantification of metabolically active components of FFM assuming constant tissue respiration rates to calculate REE (REEc). REE was measured (REEm) in 26 young (13 females, 13 males, age 22-31 y) and 26 elderly subjects (15 females, 11 males, age 60-82 y) by indirect calorimetry and detailed body composition analysis was obtained using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and MRI. Specific organ metabolic rates were taken from the literature. REEm adjusted for differences in FFM was lower in older subjects than in younger control subjects (5.43 +/- 0.61 MJ/d compared with 6.37 +/- 0.48 MJ/d; P < 0.001). Skeletal muscle mass plus liver mass accounted for 86% and 48% of the variance in REE in young and elderly subjects, respectively. The difference between REEm and REEc was 0.03 +/- 0.40 MJ/d and -0.36 +/- 0.70 MJ/d in young and elderly subjects, respectively. In the elderly 58% of the difference in variance was attributed to heart mass. REEm - REEc was -1.40 +/- 0.44 MJ/d in subjects with hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy, i.e., heart mass > 500 g, suggesting a decrease in heart metabolic rate with increasing heart mass. Excluding five elderly subjects with cardiac hypertrophy resulted in agreement between REEm and REEc in the elderly (-0.10 +/- 0.48 MJ/d). We concluded that the age-related decline in REE is attributed to a reduction in FFM as well as in proportional changes in its metabolically active components. There is no evidence for a decreasing organ metabolic rate in healthy aging.

Body-Composition Dynamics in Meadow Voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) of Southeastern Colorado

Abstract Body-composition dynamics in meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) were examined by noninvasive EM-SCAN® methods for 12 mo. At the population level, body mass and fat-free mass varied seasonally with highs in spring and summer and lows in autumn and winter. In autumn and winter, losses in body mass and fat-free mass occurred in individual adults (40+ g summer body mass), whereas voles maintained 2–3 g of lipid mass year-round, equating to 4% body fat in summer and 7% body fat in winter. Thus, changes in body composition were primarily due to changes in fat-free mass and not changes in lipid mass. Voles may rely more on energy sparing (reduction in fat-free mass and body mass) than on energy storing as a primary means of overwinter survival. Compared with results from more northern populations of arvicoline rodents, the lesser change in total body mass observed in this study suggests a latitudinal influence on seasonal change, possibly due to reduced environmental circumstances.

INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT STRENGHT TRAINING PROGRAMS ON MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE VOLLEYBALL FEMALE PLAYERS

PURPOSE: To compare the morphological changes with three different periods of strength training. METHODS: Ten Argentine representative volleyball female players (mean ± SD at the beginning of study; age: 19.0 ± 2.5 yrs, weight: 68.2 ± 5.1 kg., height: 179.7 ± 4.7 cm.) completed a 24 week, 5 days/wk program in which they performed single-set resistance circuit training (10–12 exercises/circuit, 15–20 reps., at 50–55 %1RM)(CT), other 24-wk, 5 d/wk program in which they performed multiple-set training with weight lifting technical exercises (clean, jerk, snatch, drop and squat from snatch) combined with basic strength exercises (bench press, lat pull downs)(4–6 sets, 8–10 reps. at 55–70 %1RM)(WTE) and another 24-wk, 5 d/wk program just with multiple-set weight lifting training power assistance exercises (power clean, heave jerk, power snatch and back squat, 4–6 sets, 1–4 reps. at 70–95 %1RM)(PWL). In every period they trained individual and simple team tactics twice a day. Morphological measurements like skinfolds, girths and body weight (BW) were taken every 24-wk of training and the relative body fat mass (RBFM) and fat-free mass (FFM) were determined as morphological variables of study. RESULTS: No significant changes of BW was observed during the whole study period although there was a decrement of 0.76 ± 1.43 kg during PWL. Reductions in FFM occurred mainly during the first 24-wk of CT (1.7 ± 1.79 kg, p < 0.05) but there was a tendency of increment during PWL (0.48 ± 1.91 kg). In relation with RBFM, significant increases was observed in CT (1.09 ± 11.19 kg, p < 0.05), no changes during WTE and a significant decrement in PWL (1.11 ± 1.11 kg, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that a weight loss from RBFM with a maintenance of FFM was determined with PWL, no body composition changes were registered with WTE and decreases of FFM from an increment of RBFM was observed with CT.

Factors correlated with hypermetabolism in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe disease characterized by neurogenic amyotrophy and degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. Although ALS patients usually experience reductions in fat-free mass (FFM), hypermetabolism via an undetermined source has also been reported. The objective was to clarify the metabolic level of ALS patients. We measured the resting energy expenditure (REE) of 62 patients (32 men and 30 women) with ALS and investigated the factors correlated with metabolic level. Nutritional evaluation included bioelectrical impedance analysis, indirect calorimetry, and calculation of the body mass index. Neurologic assessment included an evaluation of peripheral and central neurologic deficit. Forced vital capacity was measured and smoking status was noted. A complete blood cell count was made and thyroid hormone and C-reactive protein concentrations were measured. Patients were hypermetabolic, by an average of approximately 10% more than in a reference healthy population. FFM, age, and the neutrophil count were significantly associated with REE. The only variable that contributed to the prediction of REE, REE/Z100 kHz (bioimpedance at 100 kHz), REE adjusted for FFM, or the ratio of measured REE to calculated REE was the neutrophil count, which explained only a small percentage of variance in the multiple regression analysis. Hypermetabolism was not associated with a reduction in respiratory function, tobacco use, hyperthyroidism, spasticity and fasciculation intensities, or infection. Our study corroborates the surprising finding that ALS patients are hypermetabolic. FFM, age, sex, manual muscular testing, the modified Norris limb score, weight, and an increase in circulating neutrophil counts correlated with the hypermetabolic state. Other factors may play a role in pathophysiologic processes that involve mitochondrial energy production or even sympathoadrenergic activation.

Effects of a weight-loss aid in healthy overweight adults: double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the effects of an ephedrine- and synephrine-based compound on body mass, body composition, metabolic variables, and mood states in healthy overweight adults. Methods: Thirty subjects with a body mass index > 27 kg/m 2 were assigned randomly to the experimental group or the placebo group. The experimental group received a capsule containing ephedrine alkaloids 20 mg, synephrine 5 mg, caffeine 200 mg, and salicin 15 mg twice daily for 8 weeks, whereas the other group received a matching placebo. A registered dietitian instructed all patients about a 22-kcal/kg National Cholesterol Education Program Step One diet. In addition, all patients performed a cross-training exercise program 3 days per week under the guidance of an exercise physiologist. During the exercise sessions, patients achieved ∼70% of age-predicted maximum heart rate. Results: The experimental group had a significantly greater weight loss compared with the placebo group (3.14 kg vs 2.05 kg, respectively; P < 0.05). The experimental group experienced a 16% decrease in body fat compared with a 1% increase for the placebo group. The between-group difference was significant ( P = 0.005). Both groups achieved a significant reduction in fat-free mass; however, the reduction in the placebo group was greater than that of the experimental group. This suggests a muscle-sparing effect in the experimental group. No significant changes in blood pressure, serial electrocardiograms, pulse rate, serum chemistry, or caloric intake were noted. Conclusions: These findings indicate the apparent safety and efficacy of the ephedrine- and synephrine-based compound within the confines of this study.

Body composition in Prader-Willi syndrome: assessment and effects of growth hormone administration.

Children and adults with Prader-Willi syndrome are usually overweight, if not obese. Nevertheless, it is now thought that the body composition exhibited by such individuals is markedly dissimilar to that found in simple obesity. In fact, the body composition typical of Prader-Willi syndrome is actually more characteristic of that found in individuals with growth hormone (GH) deficiency, namely an increased level of adiposity in the limbs in comparison with the trunk and an overall reduction in fat-free mass. This variation in body composition may impact upon the assumptions inherent in many techniques used to measure body size and body composition, such as the use of body mass index and skinfolds. Therefore, it is important that the potential error in body composition assessment is understood by professionals evaluating patients with Prader-Willi syndrome. Accurate assessment of body composition is critical in Prader-Willi syndrome, as a number of recent studies have revealed extremely similar findings relating to the effect of exogenous GH on the body composition of patients with this syndrome. Other notable findings of these studies include significant increases in muscle strength and exercise capacity, which probably result from the changes in body composition. The routine use of exogenous GH to treat this extremely debilitating syndrome should now be considered.

Effect of an individualised training programme during weight reduction on body composition: a randomised trial

OBJECTIVETo study the effect of a standardised training programme focusing on maintenance of fat free mass during weight reduction by energy reduction in obese children.DESIGNRandomised trial of physical training programme...