Articles tagged with Obesity
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 men and women in their 50s and 60s and found that obesity was associated with significantly lower net worth for middle-aged women. The economic cost of obesity on women's wealth is substantial, ranging from $135,670 in 1998 for moderately to severely obese women compared to non-obese peers.
A study found that antidiabetic drugs are less effective in mice without adipose tissue, suggesting a possible connection between fatty liver disease and diabetes. The authors also noted that the drugs still had some beneficial effects on lipid metabolism in these animals.
Researchers have identified a link between obesity, digestive system malfunctions, and excessive alcohol production in the liver. Feeding obese mice antibiotics significantly reduced alcohol production, suggesting a potential treatment strategy using oral antibiotics or yogurt to constrain intestinal bacterial overgrowth.
A German research team found that people who inherit two copies of the GNB3 825T allele gene have a high risk of obesity if they do not engage in regular physical activity. Exercising for two hours or more a week appears to block the genetic tendency, highlighting the importance of lifestyle in preventing obesity-related diseases.
Researchers found that male mice genetically altered to lack estrogen receptors became obese, with up to 170% increase in fat storage. Estrogen was also linked to improved fat burning ability in both males and females, challenging previous understanding of its role in female physiology.
A six-month group exercise program with supervised aerobic exercise and relaxation training reduced depression in obese women by half. The study found no significant weight loss, highlighting the need for long-term behavioral changes.
A study of 24 postmenopausal women found no significant differences in resting metabolic rate (RMR) between those who lost weight and a control group. Despite average weight loss of 13 kg, the subjects regained an average of 10.9 kg after energy balance was restored.
A new obesity treatment program has resulted in sustained weight loss for six years by developing two fundamental internal skills: self-nurturing and effective limit setting. Participants lost an average of 13 pounds in the first 12 weeks and continued to lose weight after treatment ended.
Researchers identified gene locations involved in fat deposition and diabetes risk, with effects influenced by a mother's weight. Mice with genetic predisposition for diabesity were less obese if nursed by a lean foster mother, hinting at the role of maternal environment in triggering obesity and diabetes.
The launch of Avandia provides patients with inadequate glycaemic control a new treatment option. Adding Avandia to metformin improves fasting plasma glucose levels in obese patients, reducing the risk of disease progression. This combination therapy also shows promise for patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that walking and weight loss reduced midthigh fat and improved glucose metabolism in older obese women. The intervention resulted in significant decreases in body weight, waist circumference, and cholesterol levels, as well as improvements in aerobic capacity.
Researchers discovered a new receptor site in the brain that causes mice to become obese by storing fat and expending less energy. The study sheds light on genetic determinants of obesity, metabolism, and regulation of fat mass.
Researchers pinpointed the time it takes for the human brain to signal fullness and identified areas involved in eating. The study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to record activity changes in neurons, finding a connection between brain activity and traditional biochemical indicators like glucose and insulin levels.
The study suggests that teenagers' recommendations can inform effective school-based obesity prevention programs, prioritizing fun and interactive activities over weight control. Schools can also create support groups specifically for overweight youth, leveraging their resources to provide low-cost programs.
New antidepressant guidelines suggest both older and newer medications are effective in treating depression. A population-based study found that overweight women are less likely to receive screening for cervical and breast cancer, despite higher mortality rates from these cancers.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that black women who lost weight through dieting had a significantly lower energy expenditure than white women. The researchers suggest that differences in body composition, including denser bones and more lean tissue in the limbs, may contribute to this disparity.
A Harvard study finds that regular vigorous exercise lowers leptin levels in both normal-weight and overweight men, which may reduce the risk of heart disease. Men who were more physically active had lower leptin levels, regardless of their weight or diet.
A recent study by Duke University researchers found that moderate exercise alone can improve cholesterol levels and reduce body fat in mildly obese people, regardless of weight loss. The study showed significant improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, including a decrease in LDL cholesterol and an increase in HDL cholesterol.
Scientists at National Jewish Health have identified a key protein that regulates fat cell development, which could lead to new strategies for treating obesity and related conditions. By inserting a negative version of CREB into fat cells, researchers can inhibit the growth of new fat cells.
A UK study found that individuals who completed an intensive, very low calorie diet (VLCD) program maintained a significant weight loss of 23% or more for over five years. This is higher than the general rate of weight loss with modest programs, which averages 9%.
A 20-year study found that consuming high amounts of sodium increases the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality in overweight individuals. The study also showed an increased risk of stroke death from higher sodium intake among overweight adults. Overall, reducing sodium consumption is recommended to reduce cardiovascular disease risks.
A large study of over 9,000 heart patients found that obesity is associated with a younger onset of heart disease, longer illness duration, and reduced life expectancy. The researchers also discovered that obese patients tend to have more severe health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
A study of 741 men and women exposed to the Dutch famine in utero found middle-aged women showed increased obesity rates, particularly abdominal deposition of body fat associated with metabolic syndrome. Women whose mothers were exposed to the famine early in their pregnancies were especially prone to later obesity.
A study by Robert Hegele and colleagues has discovered a genetic link between the GNB3 gene and obesity in the Canadian Inuit. The researchers found that individuals with a common variant of the GNB3 gene had significantly higher body mass index, waist, and hip girth, indicating a strong association with greater body fat.
Researchers at Denver's Eleanor Roosevelt Institute have identified a gene linked to obesity in mice, which also plays a role in humans. The study suggests that targeting this gene could lead to effective weight control and potentially even help with diseases like Down syndrome and epilepsy.
A new study of over 300,000 people found that obesity significantly increases the risk of premature death by 5.9 and 6.4 years for men and women aged 40-50, respectively. Optimal weight remains the same across different age groups, with excess weight artificially adding years to real age.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine suggest that obesity drugs can improve long-term weight loss results when used in conjunction with lifestyle changes. Patients who have already made significant progress through behavioral programs may still benefit from medication to maintain their weight loss.
A new study reveals that gastric bypass surgery significantly improves health perception outcomes in severely obese patients, surpassing non-obese control groups in four categories. Patients report improved social functioning, emotional well-being, pain relief, and vitality after weight loss.
Researchers successfully used gene therapy to control appetite and weight in obese mice, resulting in significant weight loss within weeks. The study also explored an alternative protein, CNTF, which showed promising results in rats.
The long-term study found that orlistat helped successful dieters keep weight off. The accompanying editorials suggest that orlistat's benefits are modest.
A meta-analysis of formerly obese individuals who lost weight found that their resting metabolic rate decreased, explaining why dieters struggle to maintain weight loss. This decrease in metabolism may be a key factor contributing to the difficulty in keeping excess weight off.
The American Heart Association reports that high dietary salt intake is linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke in overweight individuals. Snoring may also be a warning sign for cardiovascular disease, as it activates the sympathetic nervous system. Additionally, controlling weight through exercise can reduce cardiovascula...
A large study found that cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, regardless of body fatness. The researchers suggest that fitness may be more important than being lean for reducing obesity and mortality risk.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that African American women who lost weight on reducing diets burned less resting energy expenditure than their white counterparts. This difference was significant and may contribute to the higher prevalence of obesity among Black women in the US.
The study found that obesity significantly increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease, with risks rising from 35% for non-obese men to 46% for severely obese individuals. The expected lifetime costs of heart disease are also higher for obese individuals, ranging from $6,000 for mildly obese men to $16,400 for severely obes...
A study by Stanford University School of Medicine found that individuals dissatisfied with their bodies and those with a history of weight fluctuations face extreme difficulty losing weight. The research suggests that combining diet and exercise is crucial for success, emphasizing the importance of addressing both aspects.
Research found large differences in mean plasma leptin concentrations among Nigerian, Jamaican, and US black populations. Women showed higher leptin levels than men at every level of body fat. The study also suggests an exponential response of leptin to increases in body fat stores.
Elevated plasma leptin levels in obese individuals may indicate resistance to leptin's appetite-suppressing effects. Additionally, new evidence suggests a link between leptin concentrations and blood glucose changes, potentially connecting obesity and adult-onset diabetes.
A study by Ohio University found that employers are more likely to hire obese individuals for sedentary jobs, but less likely for high-activity jobs. The study suggests that physical activity is a key factor in hiring decisions, rather than perceptions of attractiveness or weight.
Researchers have identified genetic and biological factors that influence a person's propensity toward obesity, suggesting a link between hormonal imbalances and weight gain. These findings may lead to tailored drug treatments, enabling physicians to detect predispositions and treat obesity with precision.
Researchers found that oral administration of a steroid hormone boosts circulating leptin levels in humans, with higher levels observed in obese individuals. The study suggests that overweight people still have leptin reserves and may benefit from high-dose leptin therapy.
Research shows that men younger than 65 who are moderately overweight have a higher risk of dying from any cause and heart disease compared to their non-overweight counterparts. For women, being overweight poses a significant heart-disease mortality risk at any age, with an increased risk observed even at moderate BMI levels.
Morbidly obese pregnant women can reduce their risk of developing gestational diabetes by engaging in moderate physical activity, a new study has shown. The study found that the presence or absence of exercise, not its frequency or duration, was the key factor in reducing diabetes risk.
OHSU scientists find obese mice resistant to increasing leptin levels, contrary to previous hypothesis that higher leptin would suppress appetite. The study sheds new light on the role of leptin in body weight regulation and raises questions about its potential therapeutic value for obesity treatment.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that mice with resistance to leptin are more likely to become obese. The researchers used a novel technique called ICV infusion to deliver leptin directly into the brain, which resulted in significant weight loss and fat reduction in lean mice.
A study of 32 obese women found that shedding excess weight led to improved body image and increased sexual activity. However, the improvement was not statistically significant and the level of sexual activity remained below national averages.
A study by Purdue University researcher James Binkley found that states with high fast-food sales aren't typically among those with weight problems, suggesting a possible link between reduced exercise and increased obesity. The research challenges the common assumption that fast food leads to weight gain.
Researchers found that leptin reduces insulin secretion in pancreatic beta cells by interacting with receptors and activating ion channels. The study suggests that treatment with leptin or sensitizing drugs may help prevent diabetes in obese individuals with fasting hyper-insulinemia.
Researchers found that 15% of obese people carry antibodies to Ad-36, a virus known to induce obesity in animals. Antibody-positive individuals had lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels than antibody-negative counterparts.
Research at the University at Buffalo has provided a biochemical explanation for obesity, showing that chronic hyperinsulinemia precedes obesity in rat pups. The study suggests that early metabolic setpoints program rats to overproduce insulin, leading to obesity later in life.
A Cornell University study found that overweight cats are more likely to develop diabetes mellitus, lameness, and non-allergic skin conditions. The study also showed that obese cats are twice as likely to die in middle age compared to optimal weight cats.
A recent study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that black women have lower resting metabolic rates than white women, making it harder to lose weight. This difference in metabolism was observed even after adjusting for weight and muscle mass.
Researchers at Oregon Health Sciences University discovered how a mutated agouti gene leads to overeating and excess body fat in mice. The study shows that the agouti gene, when expressed in brain cells, disrupts a hormonal signaling pathway that regulates feeding behavior.
A new study finds that obese Blacks are more likely to experience physical disabilities due to their weight, with a 30% greater risk than Whites. Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill examined functional differences between Blacks and Whites in rural Johnston County.
Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered that removing a brain chemical called neuropeptide Y (NPY) can help reduce body fat in genetically obese mice. The study found that mice lacking NPY become only half as fat, eat less, and have a higher metabolic rate compared to their morbidly obese cousins.
A new Weizmann Institute of Science study finds that high levels of leptin disrupt insulin's activities, leading to raised blood sugar levels. Researchers discovered that excessive leptin suppresses insulin's ability to slow down gluconeogenesis, a process that can cause diabetes-related symptoms.
A study found that certain genetic variants next to the human obesity (OB) gene are associated with obesity in young women, as well as depression and anxiety. The results suggest a direct link between the OB gene variants and depression, rather than just secondary effects.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that overweight and severely overweight patients are six to nine times more likely to develop post-operative infections than normal weight patients. These infections can be serious, but obesity does not increase mortality rates in this context.
Researchers found that weakened diaphragm muscles may contribute to sleep apnea in obese individuals, particularly as they age. The study used rats as an animal model and found that diaphragm response was compromised in older obese animals, but not in younger ones.
A University at Buffalo study finds that certain genetic variants near the human obesity gene are associated with obesity in young women, as well as depression and anxiety. The study also suggests that these genes may contribute to the development of behavioral disorders in young women.