bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postprandial metabolism in adults with prader–willi syndrome
Authors: Purtell Louise , Viardot Alexander , Sze Lisa , Loughnan Georgina , Steinbeck Katharine , Sainsbury Amanda , Herzog Herbert , Smith Arabella , Campbell Lesley V.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Individuals with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) are commonly restricted to 60‐75% of height‐appropriate calorie intake because they rapidly become obese on a normal diet. This study measured changes in energy expenditure, glucose and lipid homeostasis, and metabolic flexibility in response to a meal in PWS adults.

Methods

11 adults with PWS were compared with 12 adiposity‐matched and 10 lean subjects. Indirect calorimetry was conducted at baseline and 210 min after a standardized 600 kCal breakfast to assess energy expenditure and substrate utilization. Circulating glucose, insulin, C‐peptide, glucagon, nonesterified fatty acids, and triglycerides were measured up to 240 min. Insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion rate were assessed by HOMA‐IR and C‐peptide deconvolution, respectively. Body composition was determined by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry.

Results

The PWS group had lower lean mass than the obesity control group. Corrected for lean mass, there were no differences between the PWS and obesity groups in resting metabolic rate or metabolic flexibility. Total and abdominal fat mass, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion rate were also similar between these groups.

Conclusions

This study did not detect an intrinsic metabolic defect in individuals with PWS. Rather, lower lean mass, combined with lower physical activity, may contribute to weight gain on an apparent weight‐maintenance diet.
Hepatic steatosis is associated with lower levels of physical activity measured via accelerometry
Authors: Long Michelle T. , Pedley Alison , Massaro Joseph M. , Hoffmann Udo , Esliger Dale W. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Fox Caroline S. , Murabito Joanne M.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Prior studies on the association of physical activity (PA) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are limited by reliance on subjective measures of PA. We examined the association between objectively measured PA and hepatic steatosis defined by computed tomography (CT).

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 1,060 Framingham Heart Study participants who participated in the Multidetector CT 2 substudy and who underwent assessment of PA via accelerometry. Hepatic steatosis was estimated by liver attenuation, as measured by CT. We explored the relationship between liver attenuation and PA using multivariable regression models.

Results

In multivariable‐adjusted models, we observed an inverse association between PA and liver attenuation. Each 30 minutes/day increase in moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) was associated with a reduced odds of hepatic steatosis (OR = 0.62, P < 0.001). This association was attenuated and no longer statistically significant after adjustment for body mass index (BMI) (OR = 0.77, P = 0.05) or visceral adipose tissue (VAT) (OR = 0.83, P = 0.18). Participants who met the national PA recommendations of engaging in ≥150 minutes/week of MVPA had the lowest odds of hepatic steatosis, even after adjusting for BMI (OR = 0.63, P = 0.007) or VAT (OR = 0.67, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

There is an inverse association between PA and hepatic steatosis. Participants who met the national PA guidelines had the lowest prevalence of hepatic steatosis.
Epicardial adipose tissue has a unique transcriptome modified in severe coronary artery disease
Authors: McAninch Elizabeth A. , Fonseca Tatiana L. , Poggioli Raffaella , Panos Anthony L. , Salerno Tomas A. , Deng Youping , Li Yan , Bianco Antonio C. , Iacobellis Gianluca
Published: May 2015

Objective

To explore the transcriptome of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) as compared to subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and its modifications in a small number of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) versus valvulopathy.

Methods

SAT and EAT samples were obtained during elective cardiothoracic surgeries. The transcriptome of EAT was evaluated, as compared to SAT, using an unbiased, whole‐genome approach in subjects with CAD (n = 6) and without CAD (n = 5), where the patients without CAD had cardiac valvulopathy.

Results

Relative to SAT, EAT is a highly inflammatory tissue enriched with genes involved in endothelial function, coagulation, immune signaling, potassium transport, and apoptosis. EAT is lacking in expression of genes involved in protein metabolism, tranforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐beta) signaling, and oxidative stress. Although underpowered, in subjects with severe CAD, there is an expression trend suggesting widespread downregulation of EAT encompassing a diverse group of gene sets related to intracellular trafficking, proliferation/transcription regulation, protein catabolism, innate immunity/lectin pathway, and ER stress.

Conclusions

The EAT transcriptome is unique when compared to SAT. In the setting of CAD versus valvulopathy, there is possible alteration of the EAT transcriptome with gene suppression. This pilot study explores the transcriptome of EAT in CAD and valvulopathy, providing new insight into its physiologic and pathophysiologic roles.
Stable intergenerational associations of childhood overweight during the development of the obesity epidemic
Authors: Ajslev Teresa A. , Ängquist Lars , Silventoinen Karri , Baker Jennifer L. , Sørensen Thorkild I.A.
Published: May 2015

Objective

The obesity epidemic may have developed as a response to the obesogenic environment among the genetically predisposed. This investigation examined whether the intergenerational resemblances in childhood overweight changed across the development of the obesity epidemic in groups of children born to parents with and without childhood overweight.

Methods

The study population was from the Copenhagen School Health Records Register, which includes age‐ and sex‐specific body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) of children. This study used BMI values from 7‐year‐old children born 1952–1989 and from their parents at ages 7 and 13 years. The available number of parent‐child pairs ranged from 17,926 through 42,184. The odds ratios of childhood overweight (BMI z‐score >90th percentile) were calculated using logistic regression by parental BMI groups (BMI > or ≤90th percentile) and child birth year intervals.

Results

Stable levels in parent‐child overweight associations were observed across child BMI groups born to parents with and without childhood overweight. A slight upward odds ratio trend was observed across time in children born to two overweight parents at age 13, but not at age 7 years.

Conclusions

Parent‐child resemblance in childhood overweight showed small changes during the development of the obesity epidemic, suggesting that the obesogenic environment inducing the epidemic in Denmark influenced children irrespective of their familial predisposition.
A multisite view of psychosocial risks in patients presenting for bariatric surgery
Authors: Rofey Dana L. , Zeller Meg H. , Brode Cassie , Reiter‐Purtill Jennifer , Mikhail Carmen , Washington Gia , Baughcum Amy E. , Peugh James , Austin Heather , Jenkins Todd M. , Courcoulas Anita P. ,   the TeenView Writing Group in cooperation with the Teen‐LABS Consortium
Published: May 2015

Objective

The psychosocial health of adolescents with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 120% for age and gender) has only recently been the focus of empirical work.

Methods

This multisite study—an ancillary to a prospective longitudinal observational study documenting health in adolescents having weight loss surgery (WLS)—presents preoperative/baseline data from 141 WLS adolescents and 83 nonsurgical comparisons (NSComps). Self‐report data from adolescent and caregiver dyads characterize adolescent psychopathology and potential correlates.

Results

One in three adolescents reported internalizing symptoms, and one in five endorsed externalizing symptoms in the clinical range. Generalized linear model analysis demonstrated that increased risk of psychopathology for adolescents with severe obesity was associated with family dysfunction, eating pathology, family composition, and seeking behavioral intervention (versus WLS), whereas better quality of life (QOL) was associated with lower psychopathology.

Conclusions

While psychopathology rates are comparable to national samples, there is a subgroup of youth who present for behavioral weight loss services and are at greater risk for psychopathology relative to national adolescent base rates. Adolescents who achieve candidacy for WLS may be a highly selective population of youth with severe obesity and may have lower base rates of psychopathology compared to NSComps.
The impact of masticatory ability as evaluated by salivary flow rates on obesity in japanese: The Toon health study
Authors: Maruyama Koutatsu , Nishioka Shinji , Miyoshi Noriko , Higuchi Kana , Mori Hiromi , Tanno Sakurako , Tomooka Kiyohide , Eguchi Eri , Furukawa Shinya , Saito Isao , Sakurai Susumu , Nishida Wataru , Osawa Haruhiko , Tanigawa Takeshi
Published: May 2015

Objective

This study examined the associations of masticatory ability evaluated by chewing‐gum‐stimulated salivary flow rate with anthropometric indices among a general Japanese population.

Methods

In total, 921 Japanese men and women aged 30–79 years participated in this cross‐sectional study. Saliva production was stimulated by 5 min of gum chewing, then collected; salivary flow rate was calculated as g/min. Overweight, abdominal obesity in terms of waist circumference (WC), and waist–hip ratio (WHR), and elevated skinfold thickness statuses were determined.

Results

The multivariable odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals of overweight, abdominal obesity (WC, WHR), and elevated skinfold thickness status for highest vs. lowest quartile of salivary flow rate were 0.59 (0.37‐0.95, P for trend = 0.02), 0.65 (0.43‐0.98, P = 0.03), 0.54 (0.35‐0.83, P < 0.01), and 0.61 (0.39‐0.96, P < 0.01), respectively. The linear trends of multivariable‐adjusted means of BMI, WC, WHR, and skinfold thickness according to quartiles of salivary flow rate did not vary after stratification by overweight status.

Conclusions

Higher stimulated salivary flow rate, a surrogate marker for mastication ability, was associated with lower prevalence of overweight, abdominal obesity (whether WC‐ or WHR‐defined), and elevated skinfold thickness among the general Japanese population.
Earlier onset of diabesity‐Induced adverse cardiac remodeling in female compared to male mice
Authors: Bowden Marissa A. , Tesch Greg H. , Julius Tracey L. , Rosli Sarah , Love Jane E. , Ritchie Rebecca H.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Emerging evidence suggests female type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients may fare worse than males with respect to cardiovascular complications. Hence the impact of sex on relative progression of left ventricular (LV) remodeling in obese db/db mice was characterized.

Methods

The changes in parameters of LV hypertrophy (heart weight, pro‐hypertrophic gene expression, cardiomyocyte size) and fibrosis (LV collagen deposition and oxidative stress), in parallel with body weight and blood glucose and lipid profiles, in male and female db/db T2DM mice, at 10, 14, and 18 weeks of age, were determined.

Results

Diabesity‐induced cardiac remodeling was at least comparable in female (compared to male) mice. Females exhibited enhanced systemic oxidative stress and nonesterified fatty acid levels. Progression of LV pro‐hypertrophic (β‐myosin heavy chain, B‐type natriuretic peptide) and pro‐oxidant gene expression (NADPH oxidase subunit Nox2, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 PAI‐I) was, however, exaggerated in females when expressed relative to 10‐week‐old db/db mice. Increased cardiomyocyte width was also evident earlier in db/db females than males. No other gender differences were observed.

Conclusions

Progressive, age‐dependent development of cardiac remodeling in db/db mice parallels impairments in glucose handling and oxidative stress. Certain aspects of the T2DM‐induced LV remodeling response may have an earlier and/or exaggerated onset in diabetic females.
Food insecurity during pregnancy leads to stress, disordered eating, and greater postpartum weight among overweight women
Authors: Laraia Barbara , Vinikoor‐Imler Lisa C. , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria
Published: May 2015

Objective

To investigate the influence of food insecurity on women's stress, disordered eating, dietary fat intake, and weight during the postpartum period.

Methods

The association between marginal food security and food insecurity—measured during pregnancy and postpartum—and stress, disordered eating, dietary fat intake, and weight at 3 and 12 months postpartum was estimated using multivariate linear regression, controlling for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and health behaviors. Effect modification between level of food insecurity and prepregnancy weight status was assessed, hypothesizing a stronger association would be found among women who started pregnancy with overweight or obesity.

Results

Food insecurity status during pregnancy was strongly associated with higher levels of stress, disordered eating, and dietary fat intake at 3 and 12 months postpartum; during the postpartum period, food insecurity was associated with these measures at 12 months postpartum. A significant interaction was found between level of food insecurity and prepregnancy weight status; food insecurity was associated with greater weight and BMI at 12 months only among women with overweight or obesity.

Conclusions

In order to return to one's prepregnancy weight, women with overweight and obesity who face household food insecurity may need multipronged assistance that not only addresses having enough high‐quality food, but also include stress reduction and eating behavior interventions.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular risk in children with obesity
Authors: Koot Bart G.P. , de Groot Eric , van der Baan‐Slootweg Olga H. , Bohte Anneloes E. , Nederveen Aart J. , Jansen Peter L.M. , Stoker Jaap , Benninga Marc A.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease in adults. It has not been established whether NAFLD is related to early atherosclerotic changes in children.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, 78 non diabetic, non smoking children with severe obesity were evaluated for NAFLD. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to detect liver steatosis and serum ALT was used as a surrogate marker for steatohepatitis. Carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) and arterial wall stiffness were measured using ultrasound.

Results

Steatosis was present in 41 (53%) of subjects. Of these children, 26 out of 41 (63%) had elevated ALT levels. No differences in CIMT and arterial wall stiffness were observed between those without and with steatosis and those with steatosis plus elevated ALT levels [CIMT = 0.47 (±0.06), 0.48 (±0.06) and 0.48 (±0.07) mm, respectively; stiffness = 2.78 (±0.50), 3.00 (±0.81), and 2.90 (±0.78), respectively]. Steatosis and ALT were not correlated to CIMT (r = −0.02 and −0.14, respectively) or arterial wall stiffness (r = 0.13 and −0.11, respectively).

Conclusions

In this study, no relationship between NAFLD and early atherosclerotic changes in children was observed. An atherogenic effect of steatohepatitis (NASH) on pediatric age and long‐term atherogenic consequences of simple steatosis cannot be excluded based on this study.
Retracted: LA sprouts randomized controlled nutrition and gardening program reduces obesity and metabolic risk in latino youth
Authors: Gatto Nicole M. , Martinez Lauren C. , Spruijt‐Metz Donna , Davis Jaimie N.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To assess the effects of a 12‐week gardening, nutrition, and cooking intervention (“LA Sprouts”) on dietary intake, obesity parameters, and metabolic disease risk among low‐income, primarily Hispanic/Latino youth in Los Angeles.

Methods

The randomized controlled trial involved four elementary schools [two schools randomized to intervention (172 third–through fifth‐grade students); two schools randomized to control (147 third–through fifth‐grade students)]. Classes were taught in 90‐minute sessions once a week to each grade level for 12 weeks. Data collected at pre‐ and postintervention included dietary intake via food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), anthropometric measures [BMI, waist circumference (WC)], body fat, and fasting blood samples.

Results

LA Sprouts participants had significantly greater reductions in BMI z‐scores (0.1‐vs. 0.04‐point decrease, respectively; P = 0.01) and WC (−1.2 cm vs. no change; P < 0.001). Fewer LA Sprouts participants had the metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) after the intervention than before, while the number of controls with MetSyn increased. LA Sprouts participants had improvements in dietary fiber intake (+3.5% vs. −15.5%; P = 0.04) and less decreases in vegetable intake (−3.6% vs. −26.4%; P = 0.04). Change in fruit intake before and after the intervention did not significantly differ between LA Sprouts and control subjects.

Conclusions

LA Sprouts was effective in reducing obesity and metabolic risk.
Longitudinal body composition of children born to mothers with normal weight, overweight, and obesity
Authors: Andres Aline , Hull Holly R. , Shankar Kartik , Casey Patrick H. , Cleves Mario A. , Badger Thomas M.
Published: May 2015

Objective

The longitudinal trajectories of body composition of children born to mothers with normal weight, overweight, and obesity have not been evaluated using precise body composition methods. This study investigated the relationship between maternal prepregnancy BMI and offspring body composition trajectories during the first 6 years of life.

Methods

Healthy infants (N = 325) were assessed longitudinally (at ages 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 years) using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Mixed‐effects regression for repeated measures was used to model each continuous outcome as a function of maternal BMI and covariates (race, gestational age, birth weight, and mode of infant feeding).

Results

Maternal obesity differentially impacted body fat, but not bone mineral content or density, of girls and boys. Boys born to mothers with obesity have higher body fat from ages 2–6 years compared to boys born to normal‐weight and overweight mothers (P < 0.05), whereas body composition of girls born to mothers with obesity was not different across groups during the first 6 years of life (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

This clinical observational study demonstrates a sexual dimorphism in offspring body composition until age 6 years based on maternal BMI, with a greater effect of maternal adiposity seen in boys than in girls.
Importance of substantial weight loss for altering gene expression during cardiovascular lifestyle modification
Authors: Ellsworth Darrell L. , Mamula Kimberly A. , Blackburn Heather L. , McDyer Fionnuala A. , Jellema Gera L. , van Laar Ryan , Costantino Nicholas S. , Engler Renata J.M. , Vernalis Marina N.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To examine relationships between weight loss through changes in lifestyle and peripheral blood gene expression profiles.

Methods

A prospective nonrandomized trial was conducted over 1 year in participants undergoing intensive lifestyle modification to reverse or stabilize progression of coronary artery disease. Cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory biomarkers, and gene expression as a function of weight loss were assessed in 89 lifestyle participants and 71 retrospectively matched controls undergoing usual care.

Results

Substantial weight loss (−15.2 ± 3.8%) in lifestyle participants (n = 33) was associated with improvement in selected cardiovascular risk factors and significant changes in peripheral blood gene expression from pre‐ to post‐intervention: 132 unique genes showed significant expression changes (false discovery rate corrected P‐value <0.05 and fold‐change ≥1.4). Altered molecular pathways were related to immune function and inflammatory responses involving endothelial activation. In contrast, participants losing minimal weight (−3.1 ± 2.5%, n = 32) showed only minor changes in cardiovascular risk factors and markers of inflammation and no changes in gene expression compared to non intervention controls after 1 year.

Conclusions

Weight loss (≥10%) during lifestyle modification is associated with down‐regulation of genetic pathways governing interactions between circulating immune cells and the vascular endothelium and may be required to successfully reduce CVD risk.
Relationship of thoracic fat depots with coronary atherosclerosis and circulating inflammatory biomarkers
Authors: Maurovich‐Horvat Pál , Kallianos Kimberly , Engel Leif‐Christopher , Szymonifka Jackie , Schlett Christopher L. , Koenig Wolfgang , Hoffmann Udo , Truong Quynh A.
Published: May 2015

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the relationship of various thoracic fat depots with the presence and extent of coronary artery plaque and circulating biomarkers.

Methods

In 342 patients (52 ± 11 years, 61% male, BMI 29.1 ± 5.9 kg/m2) with coronary computed tomography (CT), angiography, we measured the fat volume in four thoracic depots (pericoronary, epicardial, periaortic, extracardiac), assessed coronary plaque, and determined the circulating levels of C‐reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor alpha, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, and adiponectin. The extent of coronary plaque was classified into three groups: 0, 1−3, and >3 segments.

Results

Patients with plaque (n =169, 49%) had higher volumes of all four fat depots as compared to patients without plaque (all P < 0.01), despite similar BMI (P = 0.18). Extracardiac fat was most strongly correlated with BMI (r = 0.45, P < 0.001), while pericoronary fat was least (r = 0.21, P < 0.001). Only pericoronary fat remained associated with coronary plaque in adjusted analyses. Inflammatory biomarkers showed a positive correlation with pericoronary fat (all P < 0.0001), whereas adiponectin was not associated with this fat compartment (P = 0.60) and showed a negative correlation with all other fat depots (all P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Pericoronary fat is independently associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Its correlation with inflammatory biomarkers suggests that while systemic inflammation plays a role in the pathogenesis of CAD, there are additional local effects that may exist.
GPRC6a is not required for the effects of a high‐protein diet on body weight in mice
Authors: Kinsey‐Jones James S. , Alamshah Amin , McGavigan Anne K. , Spreckley Eleanor , Banks Katherine , Cereceda Monteoliva Nicholas , Norton Mariana , Bewick Gavin A. , Murphy Kevin G.
Published: May 2015

Objective

The G‐protein coupled receptor family C group 6 member A (GPRC6A) is activated by proteinogenic amino acids and may sense amino acids in the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. The study investigated whether GPRC6A was necessary for the effects of low‐ and high‐protein diets on body weight and food intake in mice.

Methods

The role of GPRC6A in mediating the effects of a low‐protein diet on body weight was investigated in GPRC6a knockout (GPRC6a‐KO) and wild‐type (WT) mice fed a control diet (18% protein) or a low‐protein diet (6% protein) for 9 days. The role of GPRC6A in mediating the effects of a high‐protein diet on body weight was investigated in GPRC6a‐KO and WT mice fed a control diet (18% protein) or a high‐protein diet (50% protein) for 5 weeks.

Results

A high‐protein diet reduced body weight gain and food intake compared with a control diet in both WT and GPRC6a‐KO mice. A low‐protein diet decreased body weight gain in GPRC6a‐KO mice.

Conclusions

GPRC6A was not necessary for the effects of a low‐ or high‐protein diet on body weight and likely does not play a role in protein‐induced satiety.
Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch modifies plasma chemerin in early and late post‐operative periods
Authors: Parlee Sebastian D. , Wang Yan , Poirier Paul , Lapointe Marc , Martin Julie , Bastien Marjorie , Cianflone Katherine , Goralski Kerry. B.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Bariatric surgery remains the most effective treatment for obesity and metabolic syndrome. Surgical benefit arises from early‐phase resolution of hyperglycemia and late‐phase weight loss. The adipokine chemerin is of interest given its roles in immunity, adipogenesis, and metabolism. The study objective was to examine the effects of biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD‐DS) on plasma chemerin in the early and late post‐operative stages.

Methods

83 adults with obesity undergoing BPD‐DS, 45 obese non‐surgical controls, and 9 lean surgical controls were enrolled. Plasma parameters and anthropometric measures were obtained at baseline and at, early (24 h, 5 D) and late (6 months and 12 months) post‐operative stages.

Results

Plasma chemerin dropped from 176±49 ng/mL at baseline to 132±52 ng/mL 24 h after BPD‐DS, rebounded to 200±66 ng/mL after 5 D, and declined to 124±51 and 110±34 ng/mL after 6 and 12 months. Plasma chemerin correlated negatively with measures of inflammation and hepatic injury and positively with measures of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and inflammation in the early and late post‐operative periods, respectively.

Conclusions

Chemerin has a novel role in surgical injury but not hyperglycemia resolution early after BPD‐DS. Over the long term, plasma chemerin declines to a new set point that is partially determined by body fat reductions.
Effect of mineralocorticoid receptor blockade on hippocampal‐dependent memory in adults with obesity
Authors: Rotenstein Lisa S. , Sheridan Margaret , Garg Rajesh , Adler Gail K.
Published: May 2015

Objective

The hippocampus is crucial for paired‐associate learning. Obesity is associated with increased mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activity in peripheral and possibly central tissues, decreased hippocampal size in humans, and impaired hippocampal learning in rodents. The MR is expressed in hippocampal neurons, and MR blockade improves hippocampal learning in obese animals. The goal of the study was to determine whether MR blockade would modulate paired‐associate learning in men and women with obesity.

Methods

Men and women ages 20‐61 years with BMI between 30‐45 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to placebo (n = 11; 7 women) or 50 mg spironolactone daily (n = 12; 7 women) for six weeks. At baseline and post‐treatment, subjects underwent a clinical and hormonal evaluation. They also underwent a computerized task that assesses paired‐associate learning and has been shown by functional magnetic resonance imaging to activate the hippocampus.

Results

In an ANCOVA model that adjusted for baseline paired‐associate learning, age, and race, spironolactone treatment was associated with a significant (P = 0.043) improvement in hippocampal memory as compared to placebo treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that blocking MR with chronic, low‐dose spironolactone treatment improves paired‐associate learning in individuals with obesity, suggesting that MR activation contributes to hippocampal memory modulation in humans.
Predictors for Selection of Insurance‐Funded Weight Loss Approaches in Individuals With Severe Obesity
Authors: Matthews‐Ewald Molly R. , Myers Valerie H. , Newton Robert L. , Beyl Robbie , Waldo Krystal , Dufour Cody M. , Donato Sheletta G. , Champagne Catherine M. , Church Timothy , Ryan Donna H. , Brantley Phillip J.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To determine whether there are differences in baseline psychological and behavioral characteristics between individuals with severe obesity who chose a surgical or nonsurgical intervention for weight loss.

Methods

The current study utilized data from a larger study funded by a state insurance company and is unique in that the insurance company funded the weight loss interventions. Participants indicated their preferred method of weight loss, and completed several self‐report psychological questionnaires, as well as demographic information.

Results

Participants (N = 605) were 58.8% Caucasian and mostly (86%) female. Logistic regression results indicated that an increased number of weight loss attempts, and select other measures of eating behavior and quality of life may influence individuals’ selection for either surgical or nonsurgical treatments for weight loss.

Conclusions

Practitioners should pay particular attention to these baseline characteristics that influence choice to examine potential characteristics that may influence the success of these weight loss treatments.
Preparation and measurement of highly efficient a‐Si:H single junction solar cells and the advantages of μc‐SiOx:H n‐layers
Authors: Lambertz Andreas , Finger Friedhelm , Schropp Ruud E. I. , Rau Uwe , Smirnov Vladimir
Published: May 2015

Reducing the optical losses and increasing the reflection while maintaining the function of doped layers at the back contact in solar cells are important issues for many photovoltaic applications. One approach is to use doped microcrystalline silicon oxide (μc‐SiOx:H) with lower optical absorption in the spectral range of interest (300 nm to 1100 nm). To investigate the advantages, we applied the μc‐SiOx:H n‐layers to a‐Si:H single junction solar cells. We report on the comparison between amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) single junction solar cells with either μc‐SiOx:H n‐layers or non‐alloyed silicon n‐layers. The origin of the improved performance of a‐Si:H single junction solar cells with the μc‐SiOx:H n‐layer is identified by distinguishing the contributions because of the increased transparency and the reduced refractive index of the μc‐SiOx:H material. The solar cell parameters of a‐Si:H solar cells with both types of n‐layers were compared in the initial state and after 1000 h of light soaking in a series of solar cells with various absorber layer thicknesses. The measurement procedure for the determination of the solar cell performance is described in detail, and the measurement accuracy is evaluated and discussed. For an a‐Si:H single junction solar cell with a μc‐SiOx:H n‐layer, a stabilized efficiency of 10.3% after 1000 h light soaking is demonstrated. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphoproteomic analysis of wild‐type and antimony‐resistant Leishmania braziliensis lines by 2D‐DIGE technology
Authors: Moreira Douglas de Souza , Pescher Pascale , Laurent Christine , Lenormand Pascal , Späth Gerald F. , Murta Silvane M. F.
Published: May 2015

Protein phosphorylation is one of the most studied post‐translational modifications that is involved in different cellular events in Leishmania. In this study, we performed a comparative phosphoproteomics analysis of potassium antimonyl tartrate (SbIII)‐resistant and ‐susceptible lines of Leishmania braziliensis using a 2D‐DIGE approach followed by MS. In order to investigate the differential phosphoprotein abundance associated with the drug‐induced stress response and SbIII‐resistance mechanisms, we compared nontreated and SbIII‐treated samples of each line. Pair wise comparisons revealed a total of 116 spots that showed a statistically significant difference in phosphoprotein abundance, including 11 and 34 spots specifically correlated with drug treatment and resistance, respectively. We identified 48 different proteins distributed into seven biological process categories. The category “protein folding/chaperones and stress response” is mainly implicated in response to SbIII treatment, while the categories “antioxidant/detoxification,” “metabolic process,” “RNA/DNA processing,” and “protein biosynthesis” are modulated in the case of antimony resistance. Multiple sequence alignments were performed to validate the conservation of phosphorylated residues in nine proteins identified here. Western blot assays were carried out to validate the quantitative phosphoproteome analysis. The results revealed differential expression level of three phosphoproteins in the lines analyzed. This novel study allowed us to profile the L. braziliensis phosphoproteome, identifying several potential candidates for biochemical or signaling networks associated with antimony resistance phenotype in this parasite.
Urinary extracellular vesicles for biomarker source to monitor polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Choi Dong‐Sic
Published: May 2015

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are bilayered lipid vesicles, 50–1000 nm in diameter and secreted by most types of cells. They contain many proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs, and lipids that reflect the pathophysiological state of the cells they originate from, and are therefore considered to be a rich source of potential biomarkers. In this issue (Pocsfalvi, G. et al., Proteomics Clin. Appl. 2015, 9, 552–567), Pocsfalvi et al. conducted pioneering investigations to determine whether changes in the protein content of EVs occur during progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a common genetic disorder that predominantly affects the kidneys. Most significantly, iTRAQ‐based quantitative proteomics showed that cytoskeleton‐regulating and Ca2+‐binding proteins are differentially expressed in urinary EVs of ADPKD patients. Impressively, these proteins are involved in biological processes that are closely related to the pathogenic state of tubular epithelial cells in ADPKD, demonstrating the possibility to monitor the status of patients using urinary EVs.
Insecticide resistance status of Myzus persicae in Greece: long‐term surveys and new diagnostics for resistance mechanisms
Authors: Voudouris Costas Ch , Kati Amalia N , Sadikoglou Eldem , Williamson Martin , Skouras Panagiotis J , Dimotsiou Ourania , Georgiou Stella , Fenton Brian , Skavdis George , Margaritopoulos John T
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Myzus persicae nicotianae is an important pest in Greece, controlled mainly by neonicotinoids. Monitoring of the aphid populations for resistance mechanisms is essential for effective control.

RESULTS

Two new RFLP‐based diagnostics for the detection of the M918T (super‐kdr pyrethroid resistance) and nAChR R81T (neonicotinoid resistance) mutations were applied, along with other established assays, on 131 nicotianae multilocus genotypes (MLGs) collected from tobacco and peach in Greece in 2012–2013. Furthermore, we present resistance data from aphid clones (>500, mainly nicotianae) collected in 2006–2007. About half of the clones tested with a diagnostic dose of imidacloprid were tolerant. The R81T mutation was not found in the 131 MLGs and 152 clones examined. Over half (58.6%) of a subset of 29 clones showed a 9–36‐fold overexpression of CYP6CY3. M918T was found at low to moderate frequencies. The kdr and MACE mechanisms and carboxylesterase‐based resistance were found at high frequency in all years.

CONCLUSION

The aphid retains costly resistance mechanisms even in the absence of pressure from certain insecticides, which could be attributed to factors related to climate and genetic properties of the populations. The indication of build‐up of resistance/tolerance to neonicotinoids, related to CYP6CY3 overexpression, is a matter of concern. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
First‐order turbulence closure for modelling complex canopy flows
Authors: Finnigan John , Harman Ian , Ross Andrew , Belcher Stephen
Published: May 2015

Simple first‐order closure remains an attractive way of formulating equations for complex canopy flows when the aim is to find analytic or simple numerical solutions to illustrate fundamental physical processes. Nevertheless, the limitations of such closures must be understood if the resulting models are to illuminate rather than mislead. We propose five conditions that first‐order closures must satisfy, then test two widely used closures against them. The first is the eddy diffusivity based on a mixing length. We discuss the origins of this approach, its use in simple canopy flows and extensions to more complex flows. We find that it satisfies most of the conditions and, because the reasons for its failures are well understood, it is a reliable methodology. The second is the velocity‐squared closure that relates shear stress to the square of mean velocity. Again we discuss the origins of this closure and show that it is based on incorrect physical principles and fails to satisfy any of the five conditions in complex canopy flows; consequently its use can lead to actively misleading conclusions.
Examining deep and shallow Adriatic bora events
Authors: Kuzmić Milivoj , Grisogono Branko , Li XiaoMing , Lehner Susanne
Published: May 2015

This note examines two Adriatic bora events recorded in TerraSAR‐X (TS‐X) images taken in the winters of 2011 (Case 1) and 2012 (Case 2). In Case 1, the TS‐X captured an image of a deep anticyclonic bora, whereas in Case 2 a shallow cyclonic bora was sampled. High‐resolution TS‐X images resolved the finer bora spatial structure to a scale of ≈1 km, which has not previously been reported in bora research. In particular, the structures in Case 2 appear to be driven by surface convective heat fluxes caused by substantial temperature differences between the relatively high sea surface temperature (SST) and the overflowing very cold air. The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulations used to aid the analyses suggest that the very low upwind 2m temperature in Case 2 reinforced the orographic wave breaking by enhancing the cross‐mountain pressure gradient. The ensuing strong cross‐mountain flow was responsible for the appearance of secondary jets in the lee of Mount Velebit, for which the TS‐X Case 2 scene provides the first satellite‐borne evidence.
Modeling and testing of a 1.2‐kW Nexa fuel cell using bond graph methodology
Authors: Mzoughi Dhia , Allagui Hatem , Bouaicha Arafet , Mami Abdelkader
Published: May 2015

Confronted by the energy and environmental challenges, fuel cells raise a lot of hope. Fuel cells are expected to be an important power source in the future, and the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is one of the potential candidates, being highly suitable for certain applications. The electrochemical components, especially a fuel cell, are naturally multidisciplinary components rather well adapted to this approach: chemistry, electrochemistry, thermal and electrical engineering are involved. We propose a PEMFC model using the bond graph method. This model takes into account the different physicochemical phenomena in a fuel cell. The modeling of the activation layer (AL) and gas diffusion layer (GDL) of the cathode side is highlighted. This model is then validated by an experimental work where we have used a 1.2‐kW power PEMFC of the Nexa type from Ballard. The static characteristics of the fuel cell obtained by simulation are in good agreement with those of experiments and also from the literature. © 2015 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
How to bridge the boundary? Determinants of inter-organizational social software usage
Authors: Steinhueser Melanie , Richter Alexander , Smolnik Stefan
Published: May 2015

Based on their positive experiences with intra-organizational enterprise social software (ESS), the first organizations are currently deploying ESS in an inter-organizational context. Nevertheless, hardly any research has addressed aspects pertaining to the commonalities of and differences between ESS and existing forms of inter-organizational information systems (IOS). Following an information-processing view, and based on a systematic literature review, as well as on the results of an exploratory interview study, we propose a conceptual model of inter-organizational ESS usage and relevant usage determinants. Some of these are known from prior studies, but have not yet been applied to an inter-organizational context (e.g., trust, knowledge sharing, security), whereas others were newly identified in our interview study (e.g., confidentiality, productiveness, dynamics). The proposed model extends the current understanding of IOS and helps address the field of inter-organizational ESS usage more appropriately in theory and practice.
The effects of PBDE‐209 exposure during pregnancy on placental ET‐1 and eNOS expression and the birth weight of offspring
Authors: Du Peili , Li Zhihua , Du Lili , Zhang Huili , Zhou Yanmei , Sun Wen , Xiao Xue , He Yutian , Sun Bin , Yu Yanhong , Chen Dunjin
Published: May 2015

Decabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE‐209) is a persistent organic pollutant. Gestational exposure to PBDE‐209 can accumulate in pregnant women and fetuses via the placenta and umbilical cord, affecting perinatal outcome. In this study, pregnant Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups and intragastrically administered peanut oil (vehicle) 1, 5 and 10 mg/kg by body weight (b.w.) of PBDE‐209, or nothing (control) from day 0 (G0) to day 21 (G21) gestation, respectively. Placental samples were collected on G21 by cesarean section. The mRNA and protein expressions of ET‐1, eNOS and iNOS in the placenta were examined using qRT‐PCR and Western blot, respectively. Total nitric oxide (NO) in the placenta was measured using a specific ELISA kit. Compared with the control and vehicle groups, the mRNA expression of ET‐1 and iNOS in the placenta was gradually and significantly increased after exposure to increasing concentrations of PBDE‐209 (P < 0.05), while the mRNA level of eNOS in the placenta was gradually and significantly reduced after exposure to increasing concentrations of PBDE‐209 (P < 0.05). The expression trends of ET‐1, eNOS and iNOS proteins were consistent with those of mRNA expression. Interestingly, the production of total NO was significantly increased after exposure to 5 and 10 mg/kg b.w. PBDE‐209 (P < 0.05). Finally, the birth weight of the offspring rats was significantly reduced after maternal exposure to 5 and 10 mg/kg b.w. PBDE‐209 compared with the control and vehicle groups (P < 0.05). These results suggest that PBDE‐209 exposure during pregnancy upregulates ET‐1 and iNOS expression, but decreases eNOS expression in the placenta, as well as reduces the birth weight of offspring.
The effect of economic downturns on maternal mortality among pregnancies with abortive outcomes in 81 countries, 1981–2010
Authors: Ng Ka Ying Bonnie , Maruthappu Mahiben , Farrukh Jawaad , Williams Callum , Atun Rifat , Zeltner Thomas
Published: May 2015

Objective

To determine the association between economic downturns and abortion‐related maternal mortality in multiple countries over 30 years.

Methods

In a retrospective study, WHO data were obtained for maternal deaths among pregnancies with abortive outcomes between January 1, 1981, and December 31, 2010. Economic data for the same period were obtained from The World Bank. An economic downturn was defined as an annual decline in gross domestic product per head. Multivariate regression—controlling for country‐specific differences in infrastructure, population size, and demographic structure—and 5‐year lag analyses were performed.

Results

Data were available for 81 countries. Abortion‐related maternal mortality was significantly increased in years of economic downturns (R= 0.0708; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.0264–0.1151; P= 0.0018). The association was sustained for 4 years after an economic downturn (year 1: R= 0.0709 [95% CI 0.0231–0.1187], P= 0.0037; year 2: R= 0.0634 [0.0178–0.1089], P= 0.0065; year 3: R= 0.0554 [0.0105–0.1004], P= 0.0157; year 4: R= 0.0593 [0.0148–0.1037], P= 0.009). There was an annual 36% increase in deaths associated with unsafe abortion during economic downturn years.

Conclusion

Economic downturns were associated with increased abortion‐related maternal mortality, possibly due to changes in government healthcare spending and service provision. A global economic downturn could impede a reduction in maternal mortality.
The effects of resource improvement on decision‐to‐delivery times for cesarean deliveries in a Ghanaian regional hospital
Authors: Onuoha Onyi , Ramaswamy Rohit , Srofenyoh Emmanuel K. , Kim Sung M. , Owen Medge D.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate the effects of having a dedicated obstetric operating room (OR) on the decision‐to‐delivery interval (DDI) in a large referral hospital in Ghana.

Methods

An observational study was undertaken of all patients undergoing cesarean delivery at Ridge Regional Hospital, Accra, before (pre‐OR; August–September 2011) and after (post‐OR; August–September 2012) introduction of an obstetric OR. The primary outcome was the DDI.

Results

In total, 581 cesareans were performed in the pre‐OR period and 574 in the post‐OR period. Overall, the median DDI decreased from 259 min (interquartile range [IQR] 161–432) in the pre‐OR period to 195 min (IQR 138–319) in the post‐OR period (P < 0.001). DDI was lower in the post‐OR period than in the pre‐OR period for both emergency (175 min [IQR 126–241] vs 220 min [IQR 146–315]; P < 0.001) and elective (1828 min [IQR 1432–2985] vs 4291 min [IQR 2992–5862]; P < 0.001) cesarean deliveries. Only one emergency cesarean—in the post‐OR period—was conducted within the recommended 30‐minute timeframe.

Conclusion

An obstetric OR lowered the DDI for cesarean delivery; however, a realistic timeframe for emergency cesareans in low‐income countries remains to be determined.
The benefits of behaving badly on occasion: Successful regulation by planned hedonic deviations
Authors: Coelho do Vale Rita , Pieters Rik , Zeelenberg Marcel
Published: May 2015

This research tests the idea that goal‐pursuit that requires extended inhibition of desires, such as weight loss and financial saving, can benefit from including planned hedonic deviations in the goal‐striving plan. Two controlled experiments (simulated and real dieting) demonstrate that including planned goal deviations during extended goal striving, compared with following a straight and rigid goal striving process, (1) helps regain self‐regulatory resources, (2) helps maintain consumers' motivation to pursue with regulatory tasks, and (3) has a positive impact on affect experienced, which all contribute to facilitate long‐term goal‐adherence. A third study, conducted with current goal‐strivers provides further evidence of the benefits of planned hedonic deviations for goal pursuit across a variety of goals. This reveals that it may be beneficial for long‐term goal‐success to occasionally be bad, as long it is planned.
Using Lesson Study to Develop a Shared Professional Teaching Knowledge Culture among 4Th Grade Social Studies Teachers
Authors: Howell James B. , Saye John W.
Published: May 2015

This study examined whether scaffolded lesson study might contribute to the emergence of a shared professional teaching knowledge culture among 4th grade social studies teachers. The study reports findings from a three-year lesson study professional development project that sought to develop professional teaching knowledge for problem-based historical inquiry among participating teachers. Participants included six 4th grade State History teachers from three different schools and three different school systems. Using qualitative data collected during three yearlong lesson study cycles, we present evidence that suggests that lesson study can be used to develop a shared professional teaching knowledge culture among 4th grade social studies teachers. We suggest, however, that a combination of factors might contribute to variations in teachers' participation in that shared professional teaching knowledge culture including the degree to which the teachers embraced the public nature of lesson study. These factors include the teachers' idiosyncratic views of teaching and learning, the teachers' individual tolerance for socially constructing curricula, and the degree to which teachers acceded to cultural obstacles within elementary schooling.