bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship Between Relative Weight and School Attendance Among Elementary Schoolchildren
Authors: Geier Andrew B. , Foster Gary D. , Womble Leslie G. , McLaughlin Jackie , Borradaile Kelley E. , Nachmani Joan , Sherman Sandy , Kumanyika Shiriki , Shults Justine
Published: July 2008

Objective: To determine the relationship between relative weight and school attendance among elementary schoolchildren.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 1069 fourth to sixth graders from nine elementary schools in the inner city of Philadelphia, PA, were part of an ongoing randomized control trial to assess prevention strategies for obesity. The mean rate of students eligible for free/reduced meals was 82.9 ± 11.5%. Weight was measured in the second semester of the academic year. Absentee data for the entire academic year were recorded by homeroom teachers. Participants were classified into relative weight categories described by the Institute of Medicine: underweight, normal‐weight, overweight, and obese.

Results: ANOVA showed that overweight children were absent significantly more than normal‐weight children (12.2 ± 11.7 days vs.10.1 ± 10.5 days) (p < 0.05). Linear regression showed that the obese category remained a significant contributor to the number of days absent even after adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, and gender.

Discussion: These data suggest that in addition to the medical and psychosocial consequences of being overweight, heavier children have greater risk for school absenteeism than their normal‐weight peers. As the rate of childhood obesity increases, parallel increases in school absenteeism should be expected.
Advances and Controversies in the Design of Obesity Prevention Trials
Authors: Stevens June , Taber Daniel R. , Murray David M. , Ward Dianne S.
Published: July 2008

Because randomized controlled trial designs are used more frequently to evaluate obesity prevention programs, nuances in the methodology used for this application become apparent. Areas of attention are the selection of outcome measures with high validity, attention to the description of the intervention, the use of analyses that match the sampling design, and dealing with loss to follow‐up. We recommend increased use of preliminary or evidentiary research designed to develop and test intervention components and hypothesized mediators before fully powered, randomized, obesity prevention trials are attempted. Both randomized and observational designs can be used for the purpose. Attention to design issues will ultimately lead to more successful, cost‐effective randomized trials, and more rapid movement toward efficacious and effective obesity prevention programs.
Design Characteristics of Worksite Environmental Interventions for Obesity Prevention
Authors: Pratt Charlotte A. , Lemon Stephenie C. , Fernandez Isabel Diana , Goetzel Ron , Beresford Shirley A. , French Simone A. , Stevens Victor J. , Vogt Thomas M. , Webber Larry S.
Published: July 2008

Objective:This paper describes the design characteristics of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)‐funded studies that are testing innovative environmental interventions for weight control and obesity prevention at worksites.

Research Methods and Procedures:Seven separate studies that have a total of 114 worksites (∼48,000 employees) across studies are being conducted. The worksite settings include hotels, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, businesses, schools, and bus garages located across the U.S. Each study uses its own conceptual model drawn from the literature and includes the socio‐ecological model for health promotion, the epidemiological triad, and those integrating organizational and social contexts. The interventions, which are offered to all employees, include environmental‐ and individual‐level approaches to improve physical activity and promote healthful eating practices. Environmental strategies include reducing portion sizes, modifying cafeteria recipes to lower their fat contents, and increasing the accessibility of fitness equipment at the workplace. Across all seven studies about 48% (N= 23,000) of the population is randomly selected for measurements. The primary outcome measure is change in BMI or body weight after two years of intervention. Secondary measures include waist circumference, objective, and self‐report measures of physical activity, dietary intake, changes in vending machines and cafeteria food offerings, work productivity, healthcare use, and return on investment.

Discussion:The results of these studies could have important implications for the design and implementation of worksite overweight and obesity control programs.
Lipid Oxidation According to Intensity and Exercise Duration in Overweight Men and Women
Authors: Pillard Fabien , Moro Cédric , Harant Isabelle , Garrigue Eric , Lafontan Max , Berlan Michel , Crampes François , de Glisezinski Isabelle , Rivière Daniel
Published: July 2008

Objective: Our objective was to compare the effect of different exercise intensities on lipid oxidation in overweight men and women.

Research Methods and Procedures: Nine young, healthy, overweight men and women were studied (age, 31.4 ± 2.3 and 26.7 ± 2.1 years; BMI, 27.9 ± 0.4 and 27.2 ± 0.5; for men and women, respectively). On one study day, the subjects first performed 30 minutes of cycling exercise at 30% of their maximal oxygen uptake (Vo2max; E1 session), followed by 30 minutes of exercise at 50% Vo2max (E2 session). On a second study day, a similar E1 session was followed by 30 minutes of exercise at 70% Vo2max (E3 session). From the gas exchange measurements, the respiratory exchange ratio (RER) and the fat oxidation rate (FOR) were calculated. Plasma concentrations of glycerol and non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) were assayed.

Results: RER was significantly lower for women during only the E1 session. For both sexes, RER decreased over time during the E2 and E3 sessions. During the E1 session, the FOR per kilogram of lean mass (LM) was higher among women, and it did not change over time despite an increase in plasma NEFAs. FOR per kilogram of LM was higher during the E2 exercise for both sexes. During E2 and E3 sessions, as the exercise time was prolonged, the FOR/kg LM increased simultaneously with the increase in the plasma glycerol.

Discussion: Lipid oxidation during exercise is optimized for moderate and lengthy exercise. The enhancement of lipid oxidation occurring over time during moderate‐ and high‐intensity exercises could be, in part, linked to the improvement of lipid mobilization. This fact is discussed to shed light on exercise modalities as a tool for the management of overweight.
Stress Reactivity and Adiposity of Youth
Authors: Roemmich James N. , Smith Jasmine R. , Epstein Leonard H. , Lambiase Maya
Published: July 2008

Objective: The relationship between stress reactivity and total or central adiposity in children has not been widely studied. Data from two studies were combined to determine the relationship between reactivity to interpersonal stress and the adiposity of children.

Research Methods and Procedures: Stress reactivity to an interpersonal stressor (speech) was measured in 36 boys (9.8 ± 1.3 years of age) and 27 girls (9.3 ± 1.3 years of age). Total adiposity (percentage body fat) was estimated from skinfolds and central adiposity from the abdominal girth. Multiple regression was used to establish the associations of change in perceived stress and heart rate reactivity with adiposity. Age, sex, ethnicity, and baseline perceived stress and heart rate served as covariates for total adiposity. Fat mass was included as an additional covariate for the prediction of log abdominal girth (central adiposity).

Results: Based on adjusted β‐weights, change in perceived stress (β = 1.13, p ≤ 0.001) and heart rate reactivity (β = 0.14, p ≤ 0.03) independently predicted percentage body fat. Heart rate reactivity (β = 0.002, p ≤ 0.04) independently predicted log abdominal girth.

Discussion: Reactivity to psychological stress may initiate the antecedents of cardiovascular disease before adolescence by increasing total and central adiposity. Future studies should determine whether stress reactivity increases the adiposity of youth by increasing their consumption of energy‐dense snack foods and decreasing their willingness to be physically active.
Is Rural Residency a Risk Factor for Overweight and Obesity for U.S. Children?
Authors: Lutfiyya May Nawal , Lipsky Martin S. , Wisdom‐Behounek Jennifer , Inpanbutr‐Martinkus Melissa
Published: July 2008

Objective: Despite studies suggesting that there is a higher prevalence of overweight or obese children in rural areas in the U.S., there are no national studies comparing the prevalence levels of overweight or obese rural to metropolitan children. The objective of this research was to examine the hypothesis that living in a rural area is a risk factor for children being overweight or obese.

Research Methods and Procedures: Using the National Survey of Children's Heath, the prevalence of overweight and/or obese rural children was compared with that of children in metropolitan settings. Multivariate analyses were performed on the data to detect if differences varied by health services use factors or demographic factors, such as household income, gender, and race.

Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that overweight or obese children ≥5 years of age were more likely to live in rural rather than metropolitan areas (odds ratio = 1.252; 95% confidence interval, 1.248, 1.256). Rural overweight U.S. children ≥5 years of age of age were more likely than their metropolitan counterparts to: be white, live in households ≤200% of the federal poverty level, have no health insurance, have not received preventive health care in the past 12 months, be female, use a computer for non‐school work >3 hours a day, and watch television for >3 hours a day. In addition, they were more likely to have comorbidities.

Discussion: Living in rural areas is a risk factor for children being overweight or obese.
The Validity of Self‐reported Weight Change among Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Field Alison E. , Aneja Parul , Rosner Bernard
Published: July 2008

Objective: To assess the association of weight change based on serial self‐reported vs. measured weights.

Research Methods and Procedures: Two thousand two hundred eighty‐four male and 2476 female participants in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health who provided information on weight at Waves II and III and were at least 16 years of age were studied. Linear regression was used to assess predictors of the discrepancy between weight change based on self‐reported vs. measured weights. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of self‐report correctly classifying participants in terms of weight change category.

Results: Self‐reported weight was slightly lower than measured weight at Waves II and III, but weight change based on self‐reported weights underestimated true weight change by only 2.1 (female participants) to 2.8 (male participants) pounds. Overweight and obese female participants were consistent in their under‐reporting of their weight more than their leaner peers; thus, the discrepancy between weight change from Wave II to Wave III based on serial self‐reports vs. measured weights was significantly smaller among the obese female vs. healthy‐weight female participants (0.3‐ vs. 2.3‐pound underestimation, p < 0.05). Among the male participants, the same pattern was evident. African‐American ethnicity, Hispanic ethnicity, the level of physical activity, the hours per week watching television, and weight change efforts were not related to the discrepancy between weight change based on self‐reported vs. measured weights.

Discussion: The discrepancy between weight change based on self‐report vs. measured weights was minor and not related to race, weight change efforts, activity, or inactivity, thus suggesting that much of the error is random.
Plasma Visfatin Concentrations in Severely Obese Subjects Are Increased After Intestinal Bypass
Authors: García‐Fuentes Eduardo , García‐Almeida Jose M. , García‐Arnés Juan , García‐Serrano Sara , Rivas‐Marín Jose , Gallego‐Perales Jose L. , Rojo‐Martínez Gemma , Garrido‐Sánchez Lourdes , Bermudez‐Silva Francisco J. , de Fonseca Fernando Rodríguez , Soriguer Federico
Published: July 2008

Objective: Visfatin has shown to be increased in obesity and in type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to determine the change in plasma visfatin in severely obese (SO) persons after weight loss following bariatric surgery in relation to glucose concentration.

Research Methods and Procedures: Visfatin and leptin were studied in 53 SO persons (BMI, 54.4 ± 6.8 kg/m2) before and 7 months after bariatric surgery and in 28 healthy persons (BMI, 26.8 ± 3.8 kg/m2). All of the patients underwent bariatric surgery with biliopancreatic diversion or gastric bypass.

Results: The pre‐surgery levels of visfatin in the SO group were greater than in the control group (55.9 ± 39.9 vs. 42.9 ± 16.6 ng/mL, p = 0.024). This increase was significant in the SO group with impaired fasting glucose (63.4 ± 36.6 ng/mL) and diabetes (60.0 ± 46.0 ng/mL). SO patients with normal fasting glucose had similar levels of visfatin to the controls. Seven months after surgery, visfatin levels were significantly increased (84.8 ± 32.8 ng/mL, p < 0.001). This increase was independent of the pre‐surgical glucose levels. The type of bariatric surgery had no influence on visfatin levels. Post‐surgical visfatin was significantly correlated with the post‐surgery plasma concentrations of leptin (r = 0.39, p = 0.014).

Discussion: Plasma levels of visfatin in the SO group were increased but only when accompanied by high glucose levels, even in the range of impaired fasting glucose. Bariatric surgery causes an increase in visfatin, which is correlated mainly with the changes produced in the leptin concentration.
Adiponectin and Ghrelin Levels and Body Size in Normoglycemic Filipino, African‐American, and White Women
Authors: Araneta Maria Rosario G. , Barrett‐Connor Elizabeth
Published: July 2008

Objective: Prior studies have reported ethnic differences in adiponectin and ghrelin, but few have assessed the role of body size in normoglycemic women. We compared fasting adiponectin and ghrelin concentrations in normoglycemic 40‐ to 80‐year‐old Filipino, African‐American, and white women.

Methods: Participants included women from the Rancho Bernardo Study (n = 143), the University of California‐San Diego Filipino Women's Health Study (n = 136), and the Health Assessment Study of African‐American Women (n = 212). A 2‐hour oral glucose tolerance test was administered; glucose, insulin, lipid, and anthropometric measurements were obtained. Fasting adiponectin and ghrelin were measured by radioimmunoassay.

Results: Whites and Filipinas had similar BMI (23.7 and 24.3 kg/m2, respectively), waist girth (75.6 and 77.2 cm, respectively), and total body fat (27.4 and 28.5%, respectively); African‐Americans had significantly larger BMI (28.8 kg/m2), waist girth (86.3 cm), and body fat (39.6%, p < 0.0001). Adiponectin was lower in Filipinas (8.90 µg/mL) and African‐Americans (9.67 µg/mL) compared with whites (15.6 µg/mL, p < 0.001) after adjusting for age, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), and waist‐to‐hip ratio. Compared with whites, Filipinas (β = −5.06, p < 0.0001) and African‐Americans (β = −6.85, p < 0.0001) had significantly lower adiponectin levels after adjusting for age, waist‐to‐hip ratio, HOMA‐IR, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, exercise, and alcohol use. Ghrelin was significantly lower in Filipinas compared with African‐Americans (1146.9 vs. 1412.2 pg/mL, p < 0.001), and this observation persisted in multivariable analysis (β = −245.4, p < 0.0001). Ghrelin levels did not differ between whites (1356.9 pg/mL) and either ethnic group.

Discussion: Normoglycemic Filipino and African‐American women had significantly lower adiponectin concentrations than white women, and Filipinas had lower ghrelin levels than African‐Americans, independently of body size or indices of insulin resistance or lipids.
BMI and Seatbelt Use
Authors: Schlundt David G. , Briggs Nathaniel C. , Miller Stephania T. , Arthur Carlotta M. , Goldzweig Irwin A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Seatbelt use among obese persons may be reduced because seatbelts are uncomfortable. We investigated the association between obesity and seatbelt use with data from the 2002 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey.

Research Methods and Procedures: Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for seatbelt use among overweight (BMI, 25.0 to 29.9), obese (BMI, 30.0 to 39.9), and extremely obese (BMI ≥ 40.0) persons, relative to a non‐overweight/non‐obese reference group (BMI ≤ 24.9), adjusted for age, race, gender, education, and state seatbelt law.

Results: Adjusted odds ratios for seatbelt use were 0.89 (95% CI, 0.85 to 0.93) for overweight, 0.69 (0.66 to 0.73) for obese, and 0.45 (95% CI, 0.40 to 0.50) for extremely obese persons. Interaction effects were evident for all covariates, with stronger associations between increasing BMI and decreasing seatbelt use for women, increasing age, higher education, and residence in states with a secondary seatbelt law. There was a linear decrease in seatbelt use with increasing BMI for all subgroups except persons 18 to 24 years old.

Discussion: Lack of seatbelt can be added to the list of risk factors associated with obesity. Effective preventive interventions are needed to promote seatbelt use among overweight and obese persons.
Effects of Dietary Lactose on Long‐term High‐fat‐diet‐induced Obesity in Rats
Authors: Goseki‐Sone Masae , Maruyama Rieko , Sogabe Natsuko , Hosoi Takayuki
Published: July 2008

Objective: In this study, we examined the effects of lactose on long‐term high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity in rats.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 112 Sprague‐Dawley strain female rats (6 weeks old) were divided into four groups: a basic control diet group (Cont), 10% lactose diet group (Lac), high‐fat diet group (Fat), and high‐fat with 10% lactose diet group (Fat+Lac). After 0, 7, 14, and 84 days from starting the experimental diet, the animals were fasted overnight and killed by bleeding from the abdominal aorta under anesthesia (n = 8 or 9/group).

Results: After 84 days, the addition of lactose to the high‐fat diet decreased the final body weight, body weight gain, fat accumulation, and the levels of serum leptin, serum triglycerides, and serum glucose significantly (p < 0.05). Although there was no significant difference in the levels of serum calcium and phosphorus between the Fat and Fat+Lac groups, lumbar vertebral bone mineral density was significantly higher in the Fat+Lac group than in the Cont group on Day 82. Interestingly, the level of serum 1α, 25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 in the Fat+Lac group on Day 84 was reduced by 74% compared with the Fat group (p < 0.01), while there was no significant difference in serum parathyroid hormone levels between the Fat and Fat+Lac groups.

Discussion: This is the first study to suggest that the addition of lactose to a long‐term high‐fat diet may regulate not only calcium metabolism but also fat deposition. Further studies on the mechanism of dietary lactose in the regulation of adiposity would provide valuable data for the prevention of long‐term high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity.
Effects of Subcutaneous Leptin Injections on Hypothalamic Gene Profiles in Lean and ob/ob Mice
Authors: Duan Jiuhua , Choi Yang‐Ho , Hartzell Diane , Della‐Fera Mary Anne , Hamrick Mark , Baile Clifton A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Leptin‐deficient ob/ob mice are more sensitive to exogenous leptin than lean mice and leptin treatment normalizes many of the phenotypic characteristics of ob/ob mice. The primary objective of this experiment was to investigate whether this altered leptin sensitivity in ob/ob mice was reflected in the hypothalamic mRNA profile.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fifteen‐week‐old female ob/ob and lean mice were treated with 14 days of subcutaneous (sc) infusion of phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) or leptin (10 µg/d) using osmotic pumps. Real‐time Taqman reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) (ABI Microfluidic cards) was used to quantitatively compare the mRNA levels of selected hypothalamic genes in these groups.

Results: Hypothalamic mRNA levels for ob/ob control mice were higher for agouti‐related protein (AGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and arginine vasopressin (AVP), and lower for cocaine‐ and amphetamine‐regulated transcript (CART), cAMP response element binding protein (CREB)‐1, proopiomelanocortin (POMC)‐1, and urocortin (UCN)‐3 compared with lean controls. In leptin‐treated ob/ob mice, hypothalamic mRNA levels were reduced for NPY, AGRP, AVP, and increased for suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) compared with ob/ob controls. Leptin treatment dramatically up‐regulated hypothalamic mRNA level of POMC1 in both lean and ob/ob mice. Strong correlations were observed between hypothalamic Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and CREB1, STAT3 and CREB1, JAK2 and STAT3, NPY and AVP in all samples.

Discussion: ob/ob and lean mice have different hypothalamic mRNA expression patterns (particularly those of feeding‐related genes), and selected genes in ob/ob mice are more sensitive to exogenous leptin stimulation compared with lean mice.
Prolonged Decrease of Adipocyte Size after Rosiglitazone Treatment in High‐ and Low‐Fat‐Fed Rats
Authors: Johnson Julia A. , Trasino Steven E. , Ferrante Anthony W. , Vasselli Joseph R.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The anti‐diabetic thiazolidinediones (TZDs) stimulate adipocyte differentiation and decrease mean adipocyte size. However, whether these smaller, more insulin‐sensitive adipocytes maintain their size after TZD therapy is discontinued has not been studied.

Research Methods and Procedures: Adult female Sprague‐Dawley rats were fed a low‐fat (10% fat) diet or, to elevate body weight (BW), a high‐fat (HF) diet (45% fat) for 6 weeks. Rats were initially randomized to groups (n = 12) fed either low‐fat or HF diets, with or without the TZD rosiglitazone (ROSI; 5 mg/kg per day), for 6 weeks. ROSI was then discontinued, and all animals were fed HF for another 6 weeks before sacrifice. Retroperitoneal (RP) adipose tissue morphology was determined from tissue collected by serial biopsies before and after 6 weeks of ROSI treatment and at sacrifice.

Results: Measures of BW and adiposity did not differ among groups 6 weeks after stopping ROSI treatment. However, during treatment, ROSI in both diets significantly decreased RP adipocyte size and increased RP DNA content, and these effects continued to be observed after discontinuing treatment. ROSI administration also decreased circulating insulin, leptin, and triglycerides and increased circulating adiponectin levels; however, these effects were reversed on stopping treatment.

Discussion: These results demonstrated that TZD‐induced effects on adipocyte size and number were maintained after discontinuing treatment, even with consumption of an obesigenic diet. However, additional studies are needed to determine whether TZD‐treated animals eventually achieve an adipocyte size similar to that of untreated animals at the expense of a higher BW.
Regional Body Volumes, BMI, Waist Circumference, and Percentage Fat in Severely Obese Adults
Authors: Wang Jack , Gallagher Dympna , Thornton John C. , Yu Wen , Weil Rich , Kovac Betty , Pi‐Sunyer F. Xavier
Published: July 2008

Objective: This study presents total body volume (TBV) and regional body volume, and their relationships with widely used body composition indices [BMI, waist circumference (WC), and percentage body fat (% fat)] in severely obese adults (BMI ≥35 kg/m2).

Research Methods and Procedures: We measured TBV, trunk volume (TV), arm volume (AV), leg volume (LV), and WC and estimated % fat in 32 severely obese persons with BMI 36 to 62 kg/m2 (23 women; age, 19 to 65 years; weight, 91 to 182 kg) and in 58 persons with BMI <35 kg/m2 (28 women; age, 18 to 83 years; weight, 48 to 102 kg) using a newly validated 3‐day photonic image scanner (3DPS, Model C9036–02, Hamamatsu Co., Japan) and calculated TV/TBV, AV/TBV, and LV/TBV.

Results: Men had significantly larger TBV and higher TV/TBV and AV/TBV, but significantly lower LV/TBV than women, independently of BMI. TV/TBV increased while AV/TBV and LV/TBV decreased with increasing BMI, WC, and % fat, and the rate of increase in TV/TBV per % fat was significantly greater in severely obese individuals than in individuals with BMI <35 kg/m2. The relationships for TBV with % fat were much lower than with BMI or WC.

Conclusion: Body volume gains were mainly in the trunk region in adults, irrespective of sex or BMI. For a given BMI, WC, or % fat, men had a significantly larger TV than women. The implication is that men could have higher health risks due to having higher trunk body weight as a proportion of total body weight compared with severely obese or less severely obese women.
Association of Lipin 1 Gene Polymorphisms with Measures of Energy and Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Loos Ruth J.F. , Rankinen Tuomo , Pérusse Louis , Tremblay Angelo , Després Jean‐Pierre , Bouchard Claude
Published: July 2008

Objective: To examine the importance of lipin 1 (LPIN1) gene variation in energy and glucose metabolism. Transgenic animal models have shown that lipin, a protein encoded by the LPIN1 gene, promotes fat synthesis and storage in adipose tissue while decreasing energy expenditure and lipid oxidation in skeletal muscle. Lpin1 was identified as the mutated gene in the fatty liver dystrophy mouse, which exhibits lipin deficiency and features of human lipodystrophy.

Research Methods and Procedures: We genotyped five LPIN1 polymorphisms and tested for association with resting metabolic rate (RMR), fat oxidation, fasting plasma insulin and glucose concentration, and obesity‐related phenotypes, including BMI, body fat percentage, sum of six skinfolds, and waist circumference in 712 subjects of the Quebec Family Study.

Results: The strongest results were generation‐specific. In parents, RMR of the G/G IVS13 + 3333A>G homozygotes was 107 kcal/d higher than in A/A homozygotes and 39 kcal/d higher than in A/G heterozygotes (p = 0.0003). In offspring, carriers of the C allele of the IVS18 + 181C>T variant had significantly higher (p < 0.0003) insulin levels than T/T homozygotes. These associations remained significant after adjusting for multiple testing. Several other associations between body composition measures and the IVS18 + 181C>T variant were significant (p = 0.05 to 0.003), suggesting a strong pattern of relationships.

Discussion: These findings support the hypothesis that sequence variation in the LPIN1 gene contributes to variation in RMR and obesity‐related phenotypes potentially in an age‐dependent manner.
First Nationwide Survey of Prevalence of Overweight, Underweight, and Abdominal Obesity in Iranian Adults
Authors: Janghorbani Mohsen , Amini Masoud , Willett Walter C. , Gouya Mohammad Mehdi , Delavari Alireza , Alikhani Siamak , Mahdavi Alireza
Published: July 2008

Objective: The goal was to estimate the prevalence of overweight, obesity, underweight, and abdominal obesity among the adult population of Iran.

Research Methods and Procedures: A nationwide cross‐sectional survey was conducted from December 2004 to February 2005. The selection was conducted by stratified probability cluster sampling through household family members in Iran. Weight, height, and waist circumference (WC) of 89,404 men and women 15 to 65 years of age (mean, 39.2 years) were measured. The criteria for underweight, normal‐weight, overweight, and Class I, II, and III obesity were BMI <18.5, 18.5 to 24.9, 25 to 29.9, 30 to 34.9, 35 to 39.9, and ≥40 (kg/m2), respectively. Abdominal obesity was defined as WC ≥102 cm in men and ≥88 cm in women.

Results: The age‐adjusted means for BMI and WC were 24.6 kg/m2 in men and 26.5 kg/m2 in women and 86.6 cm in men and 89.6 cm in women, respectively. The age‐adjusted prevalence of overweight or obesity (BMI ≥25) was 42.8% in men and 57.0% in women; 11.1% of men and 25.2% of women were obese (BMI ≥30), while 6.3% of men and 5.2% of women were underweight. Age, low physical activity, low educational attainment, marriage, and residence in urban areas were strongly associated with obesity. Abdominal obesity was more common among women than men (54.5% vs. 12.9%) and greater with older age.

Discussion: Excess body weight appears to be common in Iran. More women than men present with overweight and abdominal obesity. Prevention and treatment strategies are urgently needed to address the health burden of obesity.
Forecasting the Obesity Epidemic in the Aging U.S. Population
Authors: Wang Y. Claire , Colditz Graham A. , Kuntz Karen M.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to forecast BMI distribution in the U.S. population along with demographic changes based on past race‐, sex‐, and birth cohort‐specific secular trends.

Research Methods and Procedures: We compiled data from 44,184 subjects from 4 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES; 1971 to 2004). By race and sex, we fit regression models to create smoothed mean BMI curves by age for 1970 to 2010. Linking corresponding birth cohorts across age‐ and year‐specific mean BMI projections, we estimated the trajectory of relative BMI throughout each cohort's lifetime. These projections were validated using actual cohorts in the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow‐up Study. Combined with U.S. census, we predicted BMI distributions in 2010 and examined the joint impact of the obesity epidemic and population aging.

Results: BMI secular trends in the past 3 decades differ significantly by birth cohort, sex, and race. If these trends continue, the prevalence of obesity is expected to reach 35%, 36%, 33%, and 55% in 2010 among white men, white women, black men, and black women, respectively, far from the Healthy People 2010 goal of 15%. Such forecasts translate into 9.3 million more obese adults 20 to 74 years of age than in 2000, 8.3 million of whom would be 50 years of age or older, and 8.5 million of whom would be white. The mean age among obese men and women is also expected to rise from 47 to 49 years among whites and from 43 to 44 years among blacks.

Discussion: As the baby boom generation approaches retirement age, the continuing obesity epidemic signals a likely expansion in the population with obesity‐related comorbidities. A framework to combine BMI and demographic trends is essential in evaluating the burden and disparity associated with the epidemic in the aging U.S. population.
Interaction of DIO2 T92A and PPARγ2 P12A Polymorphisms in the Modulation of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Fiorito Mirella , Torrente Isabella , De Cosmo Salvatore , Guida Valentina , Colosimo Alessia , Prudente Sabrina , Flex Elisabetta , Menghini Rossella , Miccoli Roberto , Penno Giuseppe , Pellegrini Fabio , Tassi Vittorio , Federici Massimo , Trischitta Vincenzo , Dallapiccola Bruno
Published: July 2008

Type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase (DIO2) converts thyroid prohormone tetraiodothyronine into the biologically active triiodothyronine hormone, which increases insulin sensitivity at the skeletal muscle level. The DIO2 T92A polymorphism modulates deiodinase activity and has been inconsistently associated with insulin resistance. Also, the P121A polymorphism of the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) γ2 gene, which encodes a transcription factor involved in insulin signaling, has been inconsistently associated with insulin resistance. This study was aimed at evaluating the combined effect of DIO2 T92A and PPARγ2 P12A polymorphisms on insulin resistance‐related features in 590 non‐diabetic whites. A significant gene‐gene interaction was observed in the modulation of systolic (p = 0.01) and diastolic (p = 0.02) blood pressure and metabolic syndrome (p = 0.02), with carriers of both DIO2 A92 and PPARγ2 A12 variants showing the worst phenotype. This latter interaction was also shown by multifactor dimensionality reduction analysis (p = 0.0045). A peroxisome proliferator response element in the DIO2 promoter was identified by in silico analysis and confirmed by in vitro gel shift mobility assay, thus providing a biological plausibility for the observed gene‐gene interaction. If confirmed in other populations, comprising several thousand individuals, these data may help identify individuals at risk for insulin resistance‐related abnormalities.
Overweight in Swiss Children and Associations With Children's and Parents’ Characteristics
Authors: Lasserre Aurélie M. , Chiolero Arnaud , Cachat François , Paccaud Fred , Bovet Pascal
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children in a canton of Switzerland and the association with various characteristics of the parents and the children.

Research Methods and Procedures: A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in all children of the sixth school grade of the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. Weight and height were measured, and selected lifestyle variables were assessed with a self‐administered semiquantitative questionnaire. Information on children's parents was gathered through a mailed structured questionnaire. Overweight and obesity were based on the International Obesity Task Force criteria.

Results: Of 6873 eligible children, 5207 (76%) participated (2621 boys, 2586 girls; mean age, 12.3 years; standard deviation, 0.5 year). The prevalence of overweight (including obesity) was 15.0% (95% confidence interval, 13.7% to 16.4%) in boys and 12.4% (11.1% to 13.7%) in girls, and the prevalence of obesity was 1.8% (1.3% to 2.3%) and 1.7% (1.2% to 2.2%), respectively. In both univariate and multivariate analyses, overweight was strongly associated with high television viewing time and selected characteristics of the parents (overweight, low educational level, and foreign nationality).

Discussion: The prevalence of pediatric overweight and obesity was lower in this region of Switzerland than in several European countries. The correlates of overweight found in this region suggest areas for potential interventions.
A Novel Technique to Propagate Primary Human Preadipocytes without Loss of Differentiation Capacity
Authors: Skurk Thomas , Ecklebe Silke , Hauner Hans
Published: July 2008

Objective: The study of human preadipocytes is hampered by the limited availability of adipose tissue and low yield of cell preparation. Proliferation of preadipocytes using common protocols, including fetal bovine serum (FBS), results in a markedly reduced differentiation capacity. Therefore, we were interested in developing an improved culture system that allows the proliferation of human preadipocytes without loss of differentiation capacity.

Research Methods and Procedures: Adipose tissue samples were taken from subjects undergoing elective abdominal surgery. Cells were seeded at various densities and cultured using different formulations of proliferation media including factors such as fibroblast growth factor‐2 (basic fibroblast growth factor), epidermal growth factor, insulin, and FBS either alone or in combination. Cells were counted and induced to differentiate after confluence. After complete differentiation, cells were harvested, and glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase activity was measured. Cells were subcultured for up to five passages.

Results: The proliferation medium with 4 growth factors (PM4), consisting of 2.5% FBS, 10 ng/mL epidermal growth factor, 1 ng/mL basic fibroblast growth factor, and 8.7 µM insulin, resulted in lower doubling times at all seeding densities tested (0.05 × 104 to 1.5 × 104) compared with medium supplemented with 10% FBS. In contrast to cells in FBS medium, cells grown with PM4 medium retained full differentiation rate (glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase activity, 493 ± 215 vs. 41 ± 17 mU/mg, p < 0.01). Differentiation capacity was fully retained at least for up to three passages in PM4 medium.

Discussion: The use of PM4 medium results in substantial proliferation of human preadipocytes with preserved differentiation capacity. This novel technique represents a valuable tool for the study of human adipose tissue development and function starting from small samples.
Anatomical Patterning of Visceral Adipose Tissue: Race, Sex, and Age Variation
Authors: Demerath Ellen W. , Sun Shumei S. , Rogers Nikki , Lee Miryoung , Reed Derek , Choh Audrey C. , Couch William , Czerwinski Stefan A. , Chumlea W. Cameron , Siervogel Roger M. , Towne Bradford
Published: July 2008

Objective: We tested sex, race, and age differences in the patterning of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Research Methods and Procedures: Contiguous 1‐cm‐thick magnetic resonance (MR) images of the abdomen were collected from 820 African‐American and white adults. Repeated‐measures ANOVA was used to examine the effects of image location, sex, race, and age (≥50 vs. <50 years) on adipose tissue areas. Maximum VAT area was identified for each subject from the raw data.

Results: Compared to women, men had greater total VAT volume (p < 0.0001), and their maximum VAT area occurred higher in the abdomen (p < 0.0001). Among white men, maximim VAT area most frequently occurred 5 to 10 cm above L4‐L5, whereas in the other groups, maximim VAT area most frequently occurred 1 to 4 cm above L4‐L5 (p < 0.0001). African‐American men had greater total VAT volume than African‐American women (p < 0.01), but this sex difference was only significant using single images cranial to L4‐L5 + 2 cm. Age‐related increases in VAT tended to be greatest 5 to 10 cm above L4‐L5 in men and near L4‐L5 in women.

Discussion: A single MR image 5 to 10 cm above L4‐L5 may allow more accurate conclusions than the L4‐L5 image regarding group differences in visceral adiposity.
Quantitative Trait Loci for Regional Adiposity in Mouse Lines Divergently Selected for Food Intake
Authors: Rance Kellie A. , Hambly Catherine , Dalgleish Gillian , Fustin Jean‐Michel , Bünger Lutz , Speakman John R.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Obesity is thought to result from an interaction between genotype and environment. Excessive adiposity is associated with a number of important comorbidities; however, the risk of obesity‐related disease varies with the distribution of fat throughout the body. The aim of this study was to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with regional fat depots in mouse lines divergently selected for food intake corrected for body mass.

Research Methods and Procedures: Using an F2 intercross design (n = 457), the dry mass of regional white (subcutaneous, gonadal, retroperitoneal, and mesenteric) adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT) depots were analyzed to map QTLs.

Results: The total variance explained by the mapped QTL varied between 12% and 39% for BAT and gonadal fat depots, respectively. Using the genome‐wide significance threshold, nine QTLs were associated with multiple fat depots. Chromosomes 4 and 19 were associated with WAT and BAT and chromosome 9 with WAT depots. Significant sex × QTL interactions were identified for gonadal fat on chromosomes 9, 16, and 19. The pattern of QTLs identified for the regional deposits showed the most similarity between retroperitoneal and gonadal fat, whereas BAT showed the least similarity to the WAT depots. Analysis of total fat mass explained in excess of 40% of total variance.

Discussion: There was limited concordance between the QTLs mapped in our study and those reported previously. This is likely to reflect the unique nature of the mouse lines used. Results provide an insight into the genetic basis of regional fat distribution.
Replacing Sweetened Caloric Beverages with Drinking Water Is Associated with Lower Energy Intake
Authors: Stookey Jodi D. , Constant Florence , Gardner Christopher D. , Popkin Barry M.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Reduced intake of sweetened caloric beverages (SCBs) is recommended to lower total energy intake. Replacing SCBs with non‐caloric diet beverages does not automatically lower energy intake, however. Compensatory increases in other food or beverages reportedly negate benefits of diet beverages. The purpose of this study was to evaluate drinking water as an alternative to SCBs.

Research Methods and Procedures: Secondary analysis of data from the Stanford A TO Z intervention evaluated change in beverage pattern and total energy intake in 118 overweight women (25 to 50 years) who regularly consumed SCBs (>12 ounces/d) at baseline. At baseline and 2, 6, and 12 months, mean daily beverage intake (SCBs, drinking water, non‐caloric diet beverages, and nutritious caloric beverages), food composition (macronutrient, water, and fiber content), and total energy intake were estimated using three 24‐hour diet recalls. Beverage intake was expressed in relative terms (percentage of beverages).

Results: In fixed effects models that controlled for total beverage intake, non‐caloric and nutritious caloric beverage intake (percentage of beverages), food composition, and energy expenditure [metabolic equivalent (MET)], replacing SCBs with drinking water was associated with significant decreases in total energy intake that were sustained over time. The caloric deficit attributable to replacing SCBs with water was not negated by compensatory increases in other food or beverages. Replacing all SCBs with drinking water was associated with a predicted mean decrease in total energy of 200 kcal/d over 12 months.

Discussion: The results suggest that replacing SCBs with drinking water can help lower total energy intake in overweight consumers of SCBs motivated to diet.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity and Adiponectin Level after Exercise Training in Obese Korean Youth
Authors: Kim Eun Sung , Im Jee‐Aee , Kim Kyoung Chul , Park Ji Hye , Suh Sang‐Hoon , Kang Eun Seok , Kim So Hun , Jekal Yoonsuk , Lee Chul Won , Yoon Yong‐Jin , Lee Hyun Chul , Jeon Justin Y.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the association among adiposity, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers [high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), interleukin (IL)‐6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α] and adiponectin and to study the effects of exercise training on adiposity, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers among obese male Korean adolescents.

Research Methods and Procedures: Twenty‐six obese and 14 lean age‐matched male adolescents were studied. We divided the obese subjects into two groups: obese exercise group (N = 14) and obese control group (N = 12). The obese exercise group underwent 6 weeks of jump rope exercise training (40 min/d, 5 d/wk). Adiposity, insulin resistance, lipid profile, hs‐CRP, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and adiponectin were measured before and after the completion of exercise training.

Results: The current study demonstrated higher insulin resistance, total cholesterol, LDL‐C levels, triglyceride, and inflammatory markers and lower adiponectin and HDL‐C in obese Korean male adolescents. Six weeks of increased physical activity improved body composition, insulin sensitivity, and adiponectin levels in obese Korean male adolescents without changes in TNF‐α, IL‐6, and hs‐CRP.

Discussion: Obese Korean male adolescents showed reduced adiponectin levels and increased inflammatory cytokines. Six weeks of jump rope exercise improved triglyceride and insulin sensitivity and increased adiponectin levels.
Evaluation of Low‐Intensity Physical Activity by Triaxial Accelerometry
Authors: Midorikawa Taishi , Tanaka Shigeho , Kaneko Kayoko , Koizumi Kayo , Ishikawa‐Takata Kazuko , Futami Jun , Tabata Izumi
Published: July 2008

Objective: To develop regression‐based equations that estimate physical activity ratios [energy expenditure (EE) per minute/sleeping metabolic rate] for low‐to‐moderate intensity activities using total acceleration obtained by triaxial accelerometry.

Research Methods and Procedures: Twenty‐one Japanese adults were fitted with a triaxial accelerometer while also in a whole‐body human calorimeter for 22.5 hours. The protocol time was composed of sleep (8 hours), four structured activity periods totaling 4 hours (sitting, standing, housework, and walking on a treadmill at speeds of 71 and 95 m/min, 2 × 30 minutes for each activity), and residual time (10.5 hours). Acceleration data (milligausse) from the different periods and their relationship to physical activity ratio obtained from the human calorimeter allowed for the development of EE equations for each activity. The EE equations were validated on the residual times, and the percentage difference for the prediction errors was calculated as (predicted value − measured value)/measured value × 100.

Results: Using data from triaxial accelerations and the ratio of horizontal to vertical accelerations, there was relatively high accuracy in identifying the four different periods of activity. The predicted EE (882 ± 150 kcal/10.5 hours) was strongly correlated with the actual EE measured by human calorimetry (846 ± 146 kcal/10.5 hours, r = 0.94 p < 0.01), although the predicted EE was slightly higher than the measured EE.

Discussion: Triaxial accelerometry, when total, vertical, and horizontal accelerations are utilized, can effectively evaluate different types of activities and estimate EE for low‐intensity physical activities associated with modern lifestyles.
Using Telehealth to Increase Participation in Weight Maintenance Programs
Authors: Haugen Heather A. , Tran Zung V. , Wyatt Holly R. , Barry Mary J. , Hill James O.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To compare weight regain, satisfaction, and convenience among three weight maintenance programs: telehealth, traditional classes, and no program.

Research Methods and Procedures: This quasi‐experimental study compared weight change, satisfaction, and convenience among three program types. The telehealth participants interacted with a registered dietitian (RD) through the web and e‐mail, traditional program participants attended a traditional classroom program, and no program participants received no interaction. Eighty‐seven subjects (14 men and 73 women) were enrolled in the study: 31 traditional, 31 telehealth, and 25 no program participants. Eligibility included participation in a community‐based weight loss program (Colorado Weigh) and minimum 7% weight loss before enrollment.

Results: Subject characteristics at baseline were as follows: age, 50 ± 9.3 (standard deviation) years; height, 1.68 ± 0.09 m; weight, 80.5 ± 18.4 kg, with no significant differences between groups. Over 6 months, the traditional group lost 0.5 ± 4.3 kg, the telehealth group lost 0.6 ± 2.5 kg, and the no program group gained 1.7 ± 3.0 kg. Weight change among all three groups was significant (p = 0.02); no program participants gained significantly more weight than the telehealth and traditional groups. There were no differences in overall satisfaction between the telehealth and traditional groups (p = 0.43), but individuals in the telehealth group rated their program as more convenient compared with the traditional group (p = 0.0001).

Discussion: These results show the usefulness of telehealth programs in long‐term weight loss maintenance. They may be a useful alternative for those who successfully lose weight in a structured behavioral program but do not choose to participate in a formal behavioral weight loss maintenance program.