24 Questions
What is the critical need that passing on genes for efficient fat storage and lower metabolic rates represents?
Enhancement of reproductive fertility
According to the Thrifty Gene Theory, what is the genetic advantage of the thrifty gene?
Allowing reproduction during food scarcity
How does declining maternal energy status affect conception rates?
Reduces conception rates
In agricultural societies, what has enabled the thrifty gene to exert selective pressure on the human genome?
Storage of excess adipose tissue
What is the ultimate purpose of storing excess adipose tissue and having a lower metabolic rate?
Enhanced fertility
What remains unknown regarding the manifestation of the thrifty gene in the human genome?
If it involves a single mutation on one gene or multiple mutations on many genes
Why has the emergence of the obesity epidemic led to considerable debate?
Considering the circumstances that led to its development.
What does the Thrifty Gene Theory propose?
A genetic tendency to rapidly accumulate fat and store it efficiently.
Why did the Thrifty Gene Theory propose that a genetic tendency to accumulate excess adiposity would be advantageous?
To ensure survival by storing fat when food was abundant.
Why did famines and seasonal food shortages become more common with the transition to agrarian societies?
As agricultural practices changed food availability patterns.
What evidence contradicts assumptions about food scarcity in early human populations?
Anthropological data showing rare famines or seasonal food shortages.
How does the Thrifty Gene Theory explain excess adiposity accumulation in times of food surplus?
By enabling efficient fat storage for future survival needs.
What is the central framework of behavioral perspectives on obesity?
Patterns of behaviors and decision making over food consumption and physical activity
When do changes in gene expression occur?
Throughout the lifespan and at different developmental stages
What is suggested by evidence regarding epigenetic effects from paternal contributions?
They are likely to occur and influence gene expression
In what scenario do alterations in gene expression result in more dramatic changes?
If persistent environmental or behavior characteristics are present for three generations
What can bring on more permanent adaptations or dramatic changes in a family's gene expression?
Consistent environmental pressures or need for certain behaviors for three successive generations
Aside from genetic and environmental influences, what also plays a critical role in the risk of obesity?
Behavioral lifestyle choices
What is the central role of leptin in the feedback control system?
Regulating food intake and metabolism
Where is the hypothalamus located in the brain?
Near the brainstem
What is the role of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in the feedback response?
Reduce food intake and increase energy metabolism
Which neurons within the arcuate nucleus (ARC) signal the PVN to reduce food intake?
POMC neurons
How does activation of AgRP neurons within the ARC affect energy metabolism?
Increase food intake and decrease energy metabolism
What is the primary function of the hypothalamus in response to changing contexts?
Orchestrate homeostatic functions
Explore and understand the various theories related to obesity in the context of biobehavioral health. Delve into the interaction between host and environment to better comprehend the factors contributing to the obesity epidemic.
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