Abstract

Over the last several decades, obesity has become one of the most pervasive issues plaguing the United States. The vast amount of comorbidities associated with obesity, ranging from breathing problems to severe cardiovascular disease, place individuals at further risk of developing adverse effects later in life. Currently, clinicians use tools and indices such as body mass index (BMI), percent body fat (%BF) and waist circumference to classify the obesity level of their patients. In 2018 however, the Obesity Medical Association amended its previous algorithms to include two distinct pathologies that fall within the category of obesity: Fat Mass Disease (FMD) and Adiposopathy. These two diagnoses are now classified under obesity, not otherwise specified ICD-10 Code (E66.9). In this article, we discuss the updated methods to classify, identify and manage patients with these disorders.


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1 New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY

2 Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR


KEYWORDS:

Diet Obesity Nutrition

Physical Exercise Weight Loss

Weight Management

ABSTRACT: Over the last several decades, obesity has become one of the most pervasive issues plaguing the United States. The vast amount of comorbidities associated with obesity, ranging from breathing problems to severe cardiovascular disease, place individuals at further risk of developing adverse effects later in life. Currently, clinicians use tools and indices such as body mass index (BMI), percent body fat (%BF) and waist circumference to classify the obesity level of their patients. In 2018 however, the Obesity Medical Association amended its previous algorithms to include two distinct pathologies that fall within the category of obesity: Fat Mass Disease (FMD) and Adiposopathy. These two diagnoses are now classified under obesity, not otherwise specified ICD-10 Code (E66.9). In this article, we discuss the updated methods to classify, identify and manage patients with these disorders.


Obesity is linked to numerous causes of morbidity and mortality, as well as increased risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, coronary artery disease, breathing problems and limitations in overall normal body functioning. The causes and consequences of obesity are multifactorial and should be examined individually by clinicians. Such factors include behavioral, genetic, family history and drug use.


CORRESPONDENCE:

Sheldon C. Yao, DO | syao@nyit.edu


Copyright© 2020 by the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians. All rights reserved. Print ISSN: 1877-573X DOI:10.33181/12043

All three measurements correlate with an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome. BMI, %BF and waist circumference are convenient methods of measurement and


TABLE 1:

BMI Classification7


BMI < 18

Underweight

BMI: 18 – 24.9

Normal Weight

BMI: 25.0 – 29.9

Overweight

BMI: 30.0 – 34.9

Class I Obesity

BMI: 35.0 – 39.9

Class II Obesity

BMI > 40

Class III Obesity


all have their place in the clinical setting. None of the three methods are necessarily superior to the other two. It is a matter of preference to see which method of measurement is best suited for the patient. Still, it is important to use the same particular method of measurement to assess body fat with subsequent visits of the same patient. This allows clinicians to have consistency with their measurements and track patients' progress more accurately.


PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

There are differences between subcutaneous adipose tissue that lies beneath our skin and visceral adipose tissue that lies in our inner abdominal cavity.9 Fat can be classified into two categories: visceral and non-visceral. Visceral fat consists of fat tissue located in either the thoracic cavity, intra-abdominal cavity or pelvic cavity.10 Visceral fat (internal fat) has been demonstrated to be a more sensitive indicator of metabolic disease.9,10 On the other hand, non-visceral fat includes fat tissue that is intramuscular and paravertebral. Radiological imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging or dual x-ray absorptiometry are tools used to assess visceral fat. However, these tests can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance if not used for diagnostic purposes.

Similarly, obesity can be further divided into two pathologies: Sick Fat Disease (SFD), also known as Adiposopathy, and Fat Mass Disease (FMD).11 SFD is a disorder in which dysfunctional adipose tissue develops due to deranged endocrine and immune responses. The accumulation of ectopic adipocytes in the viscera is directly related to the development of insulin resistance. These visceral adipocytes can become enlarged and dysfunctional. The patient may present with clinical manifestations such as elevated blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia.12 Currently, SFD is a diagnosis of exclusion. SFD in men can lead to hypoandrogenemia, hyperestrogenism, erectile dysfunction, low sperm count and infertility.12 In women, SFD can lead to hyperandrogenemia, hirsutism, acne, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), menstrual disorders, infertility, gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia and thrombosis.13

FMD develops as a result of abnormal and pathological physical forces, which may be observed in biomechanical or structural changes. Tissue compression can contribute to clinical manifestations such as hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea or gastroesophageal reflux disease.14 FMD manifests with biomechanical and structural issues such as stress on weight- bearing joints, immobility, and tissue compression and friction.

TABLE 2:

Five As of Obesity Management: Interviewing Skills25


ASK

Ask for permission to talk about body weight and determine if there is motivation to change.

ASSESS

Asses vitals and baseline measures, including BMI/%BF/Waist Circumference. Assess the reasons for obesity as well as any pathology arising from obesity.

ADVISE

Advise about the benefits of weight loss, as well as complications due to obesity.

AGREE

Agree on a pathway for the plan to tackle obesity, including weight loss goals, behavioral modification, physical activity, and/or pharmacological intervention, if required.

ASSIST

Assist with providing necessary resources including support groups, follow-up appointments with relative specialists, such as a registered dietician, and remove obstacles that hinder weight loss.


Both disorders have common clinical manifestations that span all organ systems: cardiovascular (congestive heart failure, hypertension, varicose veins, etc.), neurological (stroke, nerve entrapment, carpal tunnel, etc.), pulmonary (dyspnea, obstructive sleep apnea, hypoventilation, etc.), musculoskeletal (immobility, osteoarthritis, etc.), gastrointestinal (hernias, reflux, etc.), integument (striae, pigmentation, etc.), psycho-social (depression, hopelessness, etc.), sleep disorders (snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, etc.), and genitourinary (urinary stress incontinence, buried penis, etc.) diseases. Treatment for SFD involves treating adipocyte and adipose tissue dysfunction, while treatment for FMD involves treating and managing excessive body fat.


Establishing a Baseline

Clinicians should begin their evaluation by taking a complete history and physical exam. Risk factors for obesity should be identified and discussed with patients. If both the patient and physician agree to it, treatment for obesity can commence. The "Five As of Obesity Management" can be used as a guide while interviewing patients, as highlighted in Table 2.15 Baseline measurements need to be established, including lab tests and body measurements. Table 3 highlights some common lab tests used for establishing a diagnosis. The physician should determine the classification of normal body weight, overweight or obese to make the most appropriate recommendations. In general, dietary and exercise modifications should be pursued as the first line and adjuvant treatment.


Nutrition and Energy

Successful weight loss includes understanding the role nutrition and energy have in the management of obesity by both the physician and the patient. Finding the right balance between a caloric deficit and maintaining caloric nutritional needs to sustain metabolic function is crucial. The first goal is to calculate each patient's energy expenditure. Energy expenditure is composed of 70% resting metabolic rate, with the remainder consisting of physical activity and dietary thermogenesis.16 The Harris-Benedict Equation from Cornell University can be used to calculate the basal energy expenditure.17 From this equation, a clinician can calculate a realistic caloric goal while incorporating physical activity. After understanding the basal level of calories each patient needs, physicians can begin to reduce caloric intake in a stepwise manner. One pound is equivalent to 3,500 kilocalories (kcal). Ideally, reducing caloric intake by 500 kcal a day would result in the loss of one pound per week. In addition, if physical activity is increased to expend 500 kcal a day, that would result in an additional loss of one pound per week.15

Furthermore, insulin plays a vital role in the management of obesity as insulin promotes fatty acid and triglyceride storage and synthesis while inhibiting fat break down. Thus, a diet that ultimately lowers the frequency (insulin spikes) and the amount of insulin being secreted is beneficial for weight loss. Though the ultimate goal of weight-loss boils down to more calories burned than consumed, the quality of the calories consumed is important as well. Ultimately, the most effective nutritional therapy is the one that patients can consistently adhere to while making progress towards their goals. Physician familiarity and awareness about diet and nutrition is key to nutritional modification and behavioral changes. Table 4 lists general dietary plans that physicians should be familiar with in order to discuss appropriate options with their patients. Table 5 highlights some of the most popular dietary plans that physicians can review to gain a better understanding. Going through the listed diets with the patient can help identify what plan is the most suitable for them. Eventually, coming up with a tailored plan that limits insulin spikes and is easy to allow for long-term adherence is the most effective nutritional plan. Consults with a registered dietician may also prove to be effective in helping achieve long-term weight loss goals. Education from a registered dietician can provide the necessary information a patient needs to help decipher nutritional labels, build a diet plan that limits insulin spikes and customize the plan to the patient's needs (food preferences, lifestyle and career).


Exercise Plan

The American Heart Association recommends >150 minutes per week of moderate exercise (like a brisk walk). This breaks down to five days a week of moderate exercise for 30 minutes. This exercise prescription, in conjunction with the proper energy restriction of 1200–1800 kcal per day, is effective for weight loss in obese patients.18 Note that this number will vary for each individual based on their individual metabolic needs. It is important to explain to patients that although weight loss is the goal, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through nutrition and exercise have invaluable advantages that span further than weight loss alone.

TABLE 3:

Diagnostic Tests & Physical Exam26, 27, 28


BASELINE MEASURES

PHYSICAL EXAM

Fasting Blood Glucose

Vital signs

HbA1C

Height & Weight

Lipids (HDL, LDL, Cholesterol, Triglycerides)

BMI

Liver Enzymes

Blood pressure

Electrolytes

Pulse

TSH

Neck circumference

Vitamin D

Waist circumference

Electrolytes


BF% & BMR assessment

CBC

Urinalysis


A comprehensive and realistic exercise program should be prescribed, although there are no specific guidelines and evidence for a screening examination for exercise participation. However, physicians should perform a thorough medical evaluation of their patients and consider factors such as any cardiac, pulmonic, musculoskeletal, metabolic, renal or other barriers to physical activity.19 However, there are those patients who have certain contraindications to exercise. In the case of musculoskeletal complaints, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to help treat musculoskeletal somatic dysfunctions that limit exercise participation is beneficial. Modifications to a standard exercise program may need to be adjusted for these patients. More frequent follow-up visits (six weeks, then every three months) is recommended for any patients starting a new exercise plan or in patients with chronic disease. This would allow physicians to assess compliance and screen for any signs or symptoms of disease progression.


Behavioral Modifications

Successful weight loss depends on the patient's adherence to a weight loss program.20 Behavior therapy seeks to identify and help alter potentially self-destructive and unhealthy behaviors. The goal of behavioral therapy in obesity is to promote long- term changes to the patient's eating behavior by modifying and monitoring their food intake, increasing physical activity and controlling cues and stimuli in the environment that trigger eating. The osteopathic tenets of incorporating the patient's mind, body and spirit in the management of obesity are paramount for success. Physicians should counsel and educate patients on behavioral changes that will assist with adherence to a weight- loss strategy. In 2011, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) initiated coverage of intensive behavioral therapy (IBT) for obesity, providing obese patients 14–15 brief, individual counseling visits in six months. One study showed, in a cohort of 50 patients, a mean of 5.4% weight loss from their initial weight at week 24; 46% of participants lost ≥ 5% of their baseline weight.21 Integrating lifestyle modifications including encouraging


healthful eating patterns, reducing energy intake, increasing regular physical activity and developing a support system should be considered in conjunction with other weight-loss strategies.22

TABLE 4:

Types of Diets29, 30, 31, 32


DIET

DESCRIPTION

EFFECTS & RISKS

DESCRIPTION

Restricted Carbohydrate Diets

50–150 g

carbohydrates per day

Metabolic Effects

  • Reduces fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides

  • Modestly increases HDL levels and could moderately reduce BP

  • May increase LDL levels

Risks

  • Carbohydrate cravings for the first few days

  • If history of gout can cause a flare-up

Restricted Fat Diets

10–30% of total calories come from fat

Metabolic Effects

  • May reduce fasting glucose and insulin levels

  • Modestly decreases LDL and HDL

  • May modestly reduce BP

Risks

  • Hunger control may present challenges, which may be mitigated with weight management pharmacotherapy

  • Fat restriction could lead to a substantial increase in carbohydrate consumption, which may contribute to hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia,

hypertriglyceridemia, and reduced HDL

Very Low- Calorie Diets

less than 800 kcal/day

Metabolic Effects

  • Reduced fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides and BP

  • May modestly increase HDL

  • May modestly decrease LDL

  • Reduces BP

Risks

  • Fatigue, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, hair loss, brittle nails

  • Cold intolerance

  • Small increases in gallstones, kidney stones, gout flare-ups

  • Insufficient mineral intake may predispose to palpitations, cardiac dysrhythmias and muscle cramps

  • Weight regain will occur if patients do not maintain healthy eating

Focused Visits with Spaced Repetition

Personalized plans with a comprehensive nutritional program, physical activity plan and behavioral counseling are the foundation of success in the treatment of obesity. However, this is not a set-it-and

-forget-it approach. Patient and clinician involvement is essential for achieving long-term goals. After the initial plan is set forth with diet and exercise prescriptions, a one-month follow-up with a specific goal in mind is beneficial. At this follow- up meeting, an evaluation can be made as to the progress made by the patient and the physician has the opportunity to address any questions or concerns the patient may have. After the one-month follow-up, physicians and patients should schedule follow-up appointments based on the patient's obesity-related diseases and comorbid conditions. Unfortunately, there are no universal recommendations that would apply to all patients. These follow-up visits are dependent on individual patient circumstances but are paramount to keep patients accountable and gives them a realistic goal. The traditional method of following up at the next yearly physical is spread too far apart and is more likely to end in noncompliance. Dividing the goals into manageable expectations makes these major life changes more palatable and realistic.


Role of Medication

According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines, adjunct pharmacotherapy has been proven to be successful in individuals with BMI ≥ 30. Pharmacotherapy highlighted by USPSTF includes orlistat, liraglutide, lorcaserin, naltrexone-bupropion and phentermine-topiramate. Dosage recommendations should be followed as dictated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as well as the manufacturer. Table 6 highlights the most commonly used pharmacotherapy, as well as comprehensive pharmacology treatment options. Orlistat, known as Alli©, available over the counter, is a popular drug to initiate treatment. Phentermine-topiramate can be used if other pharmacotherapies are resistant to weight loss.


Surgery

Surgery can be considered as an option if conservative treatment plans show limited progress. Surgery can be used as an adjunct with other treatment plans. It is not necessarily utilized as a final resort if other treatment plans have failed. Individuals can be referred to a bariatric surgeon to see if they are an appropriate candidate for intervention. The interventional plan can be as extensive as involving the disciplines of lifestyle, medication, low- calorie diet and surgery. They can start off gradually, by working on lifestyle changes starting with physical activity and nutritional changes. To maximize treatment, medications and a low-calorie diet can be added, with surgery reserved as an option if the previous treatment proves to be refractory. However, risks with bariatric surgery include micronutrient deficiencies, gallstones, dumping syndrome, band obstruction and strictures, hernias, infection and perforation. There are currently four popular procedures for bariatric surgery.


TABLE 5:

Dietary Patterns Description33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44


DIET

DESCRIPTION

ENCOURAGES

AVOID

Mediterranean

This diet has been found to be most successful

in reducing the risk of atherosclerotic

cardiovascular disease.

Emphasizes eating primarily plant-based foods, replacing butter with healthy fats, using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods

The use of olive oil

Vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds

Moderate intake of red wine

Moderate consumption of seafood, poultry, eggs and fermented dairy products.

Limit large amounts of red meat, meat products, sweets, refined oils, trans fat, processed meat and excessive sugars

Therapeutic Lifestyle

A low-fat meal-plan variant. It is most often used by patients with high lipid levels.

Total fat should be 25–35% of daily calories Carbohydrates should be 50–60% of total calories Soluble fiber should be at least 5–10 grams/day

2 grams per day of plant sterols through food

Limit saturated fat to under 7% of total calories

Limit cholesterol to under 200 mg a day Avoid foods with trans fatty acids

Atkins

This is a carbohydrate- restricted diet that promotes the utilization of fat for energy and generates ketosis.

  1. Induction phase: allows no more than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day. Encourages adequate protein intake to reduce insulin levels & generate ketosis.

  2. Ongoing weight loss phase: allows for a wider variety of vegetables, seeds and nuts, and low- glycemic fruits

  3. Pre-maintenance phase: once the goal weight is achieved, allows carbohydrate intake to be slowly increased

  4. Maintenance phase: allows 60-90 grams of carbohydrates per day including legumes, whole grains and fruits


All phases encourage a balance of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids

Processed and refined foods Foods with a high glycemic index

Foods rich in trans fatty acids

In all but the maintenance phase, limit:

  • cereals, breads, grains

  • dairy products, except cheese

  • starchy vegetables

  • most fruits

Ornish

Fat-restrictive diet

Foods in their natural form

Vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes One serving of soy products per day

Limited amounts of green tea Fish oil 3–4 grams per day

Small meals eaten frequently throughout the day

Limit dietary fat to > 10% of total daily calories

Limit dietary cholesterol to > 10 mg per day Limit sugar, sodium, and alcohol

Avoid animal products and caffeine

Avoid foods with trans fatty acids Avoid refined carbohydrates and oils

DASH

Dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH)

Vegetables, fruits and whole grains Fat-free or low-fat dairy products Fish, poultry and lean meats

Nuts, seeds and legumes

Fiber, calcium, potassium and magnesium

Limit sodium to 1500–2300 mg per day Limit total fat to 27% of total daily calories

Limit saturated fat to less than 6% of total caloric intake

Limit cholesterol to less than 150 mg per day

Avoid red and processed meats Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages Avoid foods with added sugar

Paleolithic

Based on a diet pattern presumed to exist during the Paleolithic period

Fresh vegetables, fruits and root vegetables Grass-fed red-lean meats

Fish/seafood & eggs Nuts & seeds Healthful oils

Cereals

Legumes (including peanuts) Dairy products

Potatoes Processed foods

Refined sugar, vegetable oils and salt


TABLE 6:

Pharmacology Management of Obesity45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50


MEDICATION NAME

MECHANISM OF ACTION

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

WARNINGS

DOSING

Orlistat (Xenical)*

Available in lower dose without prescription (Alli©)

Pancreatic lipase inhibitor; alters fat digestion by inhibiting pancreatic lipases

Diarrhea, gas, leakage of oily stools, stomach pain

Levels of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and beta carotene were lowered

Rare cases of severe liver injury have been reported.

Avoid taking with cyclosporine.

Take a multivitamin pill daily to make sure you get enough of certain vitamins that your body may not absorb from the food you eat.

120 mg TID

Liraglutide (Saxenda)*

Available by injection only

Long-acting human

GLP-1 agonist (an incretin hormone); increases glucose- dependent insulin secretion, decreases inappropriate glucagon secretion, increases B-cell growth/ replication, slows gastric emptying and decreases food intake

Nausea, hypoglycemia, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, raised pulse, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, fatigue, dizziness

May increase the chance of developing pancreatitis

Has been found to cause a rare type of thyroid tumor in animals

Contraindicated with personal of family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Type 2 Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome

Discontinue suspected pancreatitis, gall bladder disease or suicidal behavior and ideation

May slow gastric emptying, which may impact the absorption of concomitantly administered oral medication

Week 1 = 0.6 mg per day Week 2 = 1.2 mg per day Week 3 = 1.8 mg per day Week 4 = 2.4 mg per day

Week 5 and onward =

3.0 mg per day

Lorcaserin (Belviq)*

Serotonin-2C receptor agonist. Acts on the serotonin receptors in the brain. May help to feel full after eating smaller amounts of food

Constipation, cough, dizziness, dry mouth, feeling tired, headaches, nausea, weight loss

Serotonin syndrome, heart failure, psychiatric disorder, and priapism

Can interact with: serotonergic or anti-dopaminergic medications, St. John’s Wort, triptans, bupropion, dextromethorphan, CYP 2D6 substrates

10 mg twice per day for immediate-release formulation

20 mg once per day for the extended-release formulation

Phentermine- topiramate (Qsymia)*

A mix of two medications: phentermine, which lessens the appetite, and

topiramate, which is used to treat seizures or migraine headaches. May make patients less hungry or feel full sooner

High blood pressure, rapid/irregular heart rate, overstimulation tremor, insomnia, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, taste changes, especially with carbonated beverages, tingling of your hands and feet, trouble sleeping

Not used with glaucoma or hyperthyroidism

Not used with pregnancy or before pregnancy or lactation

Once-daily in the morning with or without food

Starting dose = 3.75 mg/ 23 mg (phentermine/

topiramate extended-release)

After 14-day intervals, and as clinically indicated, escalate doses to:

  • Recommended dose =

7.5 mg/46 mg

  • Titration dose = 11.25 mg/69 mg

  • Top dose = 15 mg/92 mg

Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)*

A mix of two medications: naltrexone, which is used to treat alcohol and drug

dependence, and bupropion, which is used to treat depression or help people quit smoking

Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, insomnia, liver damage, nausea, vomiting

Not used with uncontrolled high blood pressure, seizures, or a history of anorexia or bulimia nervosa

Not used with bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban)

MAY INCREASE SUICIDAL THOUGHTS OR ACTIONS.

Week 1 = 1 tablet in AM, no tablets in PM

Week 2 = 1 tablet in AM, 1 tablet in PM

Week 3 = 2 tablets in AM, 1 tablet in PM

Week 4 and beyond = two tablets in AM, two tablets in PM

Other medications that curb your desire to eat include:

  • phentermine

  • benzphetamine

  • diethylpropion

  • phendimetrazine

Centrally acting on the satiety center of the brain

Note: FDA-approved only for short-term use—up to 12 weeks

Dry mouth, constipation, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, feeling nervous feeling restless, headache, raised blood pressure, raised pulse

Not used with heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, or glaucoma

Can cause anxiety

Standard dosing regimen

*Most common pharmacological therapy as per the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) Guidelines 2019


The greatest expected weight loss is from the Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch procedure with weight loss predicted as high as 70–80%. It is optimal for patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus but is considered to be the most challenging bariatric surgery.23 Other bariatric procedures include Roux- en-Y Gastric Bypass, the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy and the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding.23,24 Even after bariatric surgery, the patient's treatment plan continues, including lifestyle management as well as obesity-related pharmacotherapy.


CONCLUSION

Obesity is a complicated, multifactorial disease, and so is the treatment plan. Preventative medicine in these patients is the name of the game. The goals of obesity management are to assist patients during their weight loss journey, prevent obesity- related diseases and prevent weight regain. If the patient already has obesity-related comorbidity, an additional treatment goal would be to decrease or eliminate these clinical manifestations. However, there are certain protocols, tools and medications that clinicians may employ with all patients along the obesity spectrum. Establishing appropriate baseline measurements, implementing diet/exercise changes, incorporating osteopathic principles and treatment and using appropriate medications and surgeries, where necessary, are the foundation of success in managing patients with obesity. With the tools we have outlined above, clinicians will be well prepared to recognize and treat patients with obesity.


AUTHOR DISCLOSURES:

The author(s) declare no relevant financial affiliations or conflicts of interest.


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