bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation and Function of Collagenous Repeat Containing Sequence of 26‐kDa Protein Gene Product “Cartonectin”
Authors: Schäffler Andréas , Weigert Johanna , Neumeier Markus , Schölmerich Juergen , Buechler Christa
Published: July 2008

Objective: Collagenous repeat containing sequence of 26‐kDa protein (CORS‐26) was identified as a new gene transcript expressed in cartilage with unknown function. It was the aim of this study to investigate expression, regulation, and function of CORS‐26 in adipocytes.

Research Methods and Procedures: CORS‐26 mRNA and protein expression was studied by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Transcriptional regulation was studied by electrophoretic mobility shift assay and luciferase reporter gene assay. The adipocytic secretion of adiponectin and resistin was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: CORS‐26 mRNA is absent in 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes and adipocytes after 48 hours of differentiation. CORS‐26 mRNA was induced from Day 4 to Day 9 of adipocyte differentiation. CORS‐26 protein was induced in mature adipocytes. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) γ (but not PPARα) in nuclear extracts prepared from adipocytes was shown to bind specifically to a putative peroxisome proliferator response element‐one‐half‐site located at −641/−596 bp. Increasing doses of the ligands troglitazone (1, 10, 20 μM) and fenofibrate (50, 100, 200 μM) but not 15‐deoxy‐prostaglandin (J2) (0.5, 1.0, 2.5 μM) resulted in a significant reduction of both promoter activity and the amount of mRNA expression. Recombinant CORS‐26 significantly stimulated the adipocytic secretion of adiponectin and resistin in a dose‐dependent manner.

Discussion: The mRNA and protein expression profile puts CORS‐26 in the adipocytokine family. Cartonectin is negatively regulated by exogenous, but not endogenous, PPARγ ligands. Because CORS‐26 up‐regulates adipokine secretion, it might be involved in metabolic and immunologic pathways.
Effects of Two Weeks’ Mandatory Snack Consumption on Energy Intake and Energy Balance
Authors: Whybrow Stephen , Mayer Claus , Kirk Terry R. , Mazlan Nik , Stubbs R. James
Published: July 2008

Objective: Our goal was to compare the effects of mandatory consumption of commercial snack products (CSPs) on energy intakes and energy balance in free‐living adults and to assess the interaction between habitual level of CSP consumption and the interventions.

Research Methods and Procedures: Four groups of 18 subjects (lean and overweight, males and females) were studied using a crossover design. Subjects consumed one type of CSP (high‐carbohydrate, high‐fat, or mixed composition) at three manipulations of energy 0 MJ (control), 1.5 MJ (low‐energy), and 3.0 MJ (high‐energy) each day during three 14‐day interventions. The study design was parallel for type of CSP (macronutrient composition) and within‐subjects for energy level. Subjects self‐recorded food intakes between Days 8 and 14, and body weights were investigator‐recorded on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each intervention period. Daily energy expenditure was estimated by heart rate monitoring.

Results: Daily energy intakes increased from 10.4 MJ (control) to 11.1 MJ (low‐energy) and 11.5 MJ (high‐energy) (p < 0.001), resulting in a trend (not significant) for body weight gain. Energy balance was more positive when subjects were not recording their food intakes than when they were (p < 0.001). There was a trend (not significant) for greater increases in energy intake with increasing fat content, and energy density, of the interventions. Frequent CSP consumers compensated more for the interventions than did infrequent CSP consumers (R2 = 0.125, p = 0.003).

Discussion: Subjects partially compensated for energy when supplemented with CSPs over 14‐day periods, although this was insufficient to prevent some increase in energy balance. The level of compensation correlated with habitual energy intake from CSPs.
Adipocyte Enhancer‐Binding Protein 1 Modulates Adiposity and Energy Homeostasis
Authors: Ro Hyo‐Sung , Zhang Lei , Majdalawieh Amin , Kim Sung‐Woo , Wu Xue , Lyons Peter J. , Webber Chris , Ma Hong , Reidy Shannon P. , Boudreau Aaron , Miller Jessica R. , Mitchell Patricia , McLeod Roger S.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To determine whether adipocyte enhancer binding protein (AEBP) 1, a transcriptional repressor that is down‐regulated during adipogenesis, functions as a critical regulator of adipose tissue homeostasis through modulation of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) tumor suppressor activity and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation.

Research Methods and Procedures: We examined whether AEBP1 physically interacts with PTEN in 3T3‐L1 cells by coimmunoprecipitation analysis. We generated AEBP1‐null mice and examined the physiological role of AEBP1 as a key modulator of in vivo adiposity. Using adipose tissue from wild‐type and AEBP1‐null animals, we examined whether AEBP1 affects PTEN protein level.

Results: AEBP1 interacts with PTEN, and deficiency of AEBP1 increases adipose tissue PTEN mass. AEBP1‐null mice have reduced adipose tissue mass and enhanced apoptosis with suppressed survival signal. Primary pre‐adipocytes from AEBP1‐null adipose tissues exhibit lower basal MAPK activity with defective proliferative potential. AEBP1‐null mice are also resistant to diet‐induced obesity, suggesting a regulatory role for AEBP1 in energy homeostasis.

Discussion: Our results suggest that AEBP1 negatively regulates adipose tissue PTEN levels, in conjunction with its role in proliferation and differentiation of pre‐adipocytes, as a key functional role in modulation of in vivo adiposity.
Relative Weight and Sickness Absence
Authors: Laaksonen Mikko , Piha Kustaa , Sarlio‐Lähteenkorva Sirpa
Published: July 2008

Objectives:To examine whether high relative weight increases the risk of future sickness absence and to what extent any differences in short and long absence periods can be explained by specific obesity‐related disorders, general health, and working conditions.

Research Methods and Procedures:The study included 5386 female and 1452 male employees of the city of Helsinki surveyed in 2000 to 2002. Survey data were linked to sickness absence records until the end of 2004 (mean follow‐up time 2.9 years).

Results:Women and men with higher relative weight had clearly more short (1 to 3 days) and long (>3 days) periods of sickness absence during follow‐up. The associations were rather monotonic and stronger for long periods. In women, adjusting for arthrosis and gout decreased the excess risk of long periods among those who were obese. In men, arthrosis, gout, and metabolic disease explained some of the excess risk for both short and long periods among the obese. Adjusting for physical functioning and self‐rated health decreased the excess risk for short and long periods of sickness absence among obese women and men. Working conditions had almost no effect on the association between BMI and short or long periods of sickness absence.

Discussion:Obesity increases the risk of having short and long periods of sickness absence. This finding can be partly explained by measures of general health and specific obesity‐related disorders. Healthy weight maintenance is a crucial issue in promoting occupational functioning and minimizing the costs associated with sickness absence.
The Association Between an Objective Measure of Physical Activity and Weight Status in Preschoolers
Authors: Metallinos‐Katsaras Elizabeth. S. , Freedson Patty S. , Fulton Janet E. , Sherry Bettylou
Published: July 2008

Objective: Our objective was to determine the association between physical activity and BMI among racially diverse low‐income preschoolers.

Research Methods and Procedures: This was a cross‐sectional study of 2‐ to 5‐year‐olds (n = 56) enrolled in Massachusetts Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children (WIC). Physical activity was measured for 7 consecutive days with an accelerometer. Height and weight were obtained from WIC records, and BMI‐for‐age percentiles were calculated based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) 2000 Growth Charts. At‐risk‐for‐overweight (BMI‐for‐age of ≥85th to <95th percentile) and overweight (BMI‐for‐age ≥95th percentile) groups were combined and referred to as overweight. Final analysis inclusion criteria were: completion of 4.5 days of activity assessment and anthropometric data obtained within 90 and 120 days of the activity assessment for children ages 24 to 35.99 and 36 to 59.99 months, respectively.

Results: Overweight children had significantly lower mean daily very vigorous minutes (VVM) (2.6 mins vs. 4.6 mins, p < 0.05) and lower very active minutes (VAM) [i.e., sum of vigorous minutes (VM) and VVM] per day (22.9 mins vs. 32.1 mins, p < 0.05) than children who were not overweight. Daily VVM [odds ratio (OR) = 0.68; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.49 to 0.96], VM (OR = 0.94; CI, 0.88 to 1.00), and VAM (OR = 0.94; 95% CI, 0.89 to 1.00) were all associated with significantly lower odds of being overweight.

Discussion: This study suggests that, in a diverse group of preschoolers, vigorous and very vigorous activity are associated with lower odds of overweight. However, these findings require corroboration in a diverse sample of preschoolers using a longitudinal design.
Glucose Response to an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Predicts Weight Change in Non‐diabetic Subjects
Authors: Pannacciulli Nicola , Ortega Emilio , Koska Juraj , Salbe Arline D. , Bunt Joy C. , Krakoff Jonathan
Published: July 2008

Objective: Glucose exerts a dual action in the regulation of energy balance, consisting of inhibition of energy intake and stimulation of energy expenditure. Whether blood glucose affects long‐term regulation of body weight in humans remains to be established. We sought to test the hypothesis that the post‐challenge glucose response is a predictor of weight change.

Research Methods and Procedures: We performed a prospective analysis of the impact of glucose response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and a mixed‐meal test (MT) on subsequent changes in body weight (BW) on 253 Pima Indians (166 men and 87 women) with normal glucose regulation at baseline and follow‐up (follow‐up: 7 ± 4 years). Main outcome measures included BW change (total, percent, and annual), plasma glucose and insulin concentrations during OGTT and MT [total and incremental areas under the curve (AUCs)], resting metabolic rate (RMR; indirect calorimetry), and insulin action (euglycemic‐hyperinsulinemic clamp).

Results: Total and incremental glucose AUCs during the OGTT (but not the MT) were negatively associated with BW change (total, percent, and annual), both before and after adjusting for sex, age, initial BW, follow‐up time, insulin action, RMR, fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations, and insulin response. Total and incremental glucose AUCs during the OGTT were independent determinants of final BW with age, initial BW, follow‐up time, fasting plasma insulin concentrations, and RMR.

Discussion: Higher post‐challenge glucose response protects against BW gain in subjects with normal glucose regulation. We propose that this action may be because of the effect of glucose on food intake and/or thermogenesis.
Increased Plasma Acylation‐Stimulating Protein Correlates with Hyperlipidemia at Late Gestation
Authors: Saleh Jumana , Cianflone Katherine , Chaudhary Taqdees , Al‐Riyami Hamed , Al‐Abri Abdul‐Raheem , Bayoumi Riad
Published: July 2008

Objectives: Obesity is often associated with negative consequences, including hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance. Weight gain during pregnancy is also associated with major lipid alterations. Fat storage is enhanced in early pregnancy. At late gestation, hyperlipidemia becomes a major manifestation. The acylation‐stimulating protein (ASP) is a potent lipogenic adipocytokine that correlates with postprandial triglyceride (TG) clearance in vivo and has been linked to hyperlipidemic disorders. The role of ASP during a normal pregnancy is unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate plasma ASP levels in correlation with the lipid profile during late gestation.

Research Methods and Procedures: Seventy healthy women at late gestation and 60 non‐pregnant controls of similar age and prepregnancy BMI were included in a cross‐sectional study. Fasting plasma ASP levels and the lipid profile of all of the women were measured.

Results: ASP levels were markedly elevated in the pregnant women (66%, p < 0.001). ASP levels correlated strongly with the elevated levels of TGs (r = 0.608, p < 0.000), apolipoprotein B (0.519, p < 0.000), and low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (r = 0.405, p < 0.000). Multivariate analysis adjusting for BMI and age showed that changes in ASP levels at late gestation were best predicted by TG and apoB levels, accounting for 53.8% of plasma ASP variation. For the controls, ASP strongly correlated with BMI, which was the only significant predictor of ASP levels.

Discussion: Gestational hormone alterations during pregnancy may affect ASP function as a lipogenic factor. Increased plasma ASP levels at late gestation and their strong correlation with parameters reflecting very low‐density lipoprotein accumulation are suggestive of ASP resistance, which may further contribute to the hyperlipidemic state, shifting energy in the form of TGs to the rapidly growing fetus.
Quantitative Trait Locus on 15q for a Metabolic Syndrome Variable Derived from Factor Analysis
Authors: Bossé Yohan , Després Jean‐Pierre , Chagnon Yvon C. , Rice Treva , Rao D. C. , Bouchard Claude , Pérusse Louis , Vohl Marie‐Claude
Published: July 2008

The metabolic syndrome represents a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors co‐occurring in the same individual. The aim of this study was to identify chromosomal regions encoding genes predisposing to the metabolic syndrome using composite factors derived from maximum likelihood‐based factor analysis. Genetic data were obtained from the Quebec Family Study and included 707 subjects from 264 nuclear families. Factor analyses were performed on eight metabolic syndrome‐related phenotypes including waist circumference; BMI; systolic and diastolic blood pressure; and plasma insulin, glucose, triglyceride, and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol levels. Three factors were identified and interpreted as general metabolic syndrome, blood pressure, and blood lipids, respectively. The general metabolic syndrome factor had high factor loadings (>0.4) for all phenotypes and explained 42% of the total variance, and family membership accounted for 45.6% of the factor variance. A genome‐wide linkage scan performed with this first factor revealed the existence of a quantitative trait locus on chromosome 15 (86 cM) with a logarithm of odds score of 3.15. Suggestive evidence of linkage (logarithm of odds > 1.75) was also observed on chromosomes 1p, 3p, 3q, 6q, 7p, 19q, and 21q. These quantitative trait loci may harbor genes contributing to the clustering of the metabolic syndrome‐related phenotypes.
Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein‐1 in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Insulin Sensitivity Study
Authors: Chacón Matilde R. , Fernández‐Real José Manuel , Richart Cristóbal , Megía Ana , Gómez José Manuel , Miranda Merce , Caubet Enric , Pastor Rosa , Masdevall Carles , Vilarrasa Núria , Ricard Wifredo , Vendrell Joan
Published: July 2008

Objective: Our goal was to test any association between human plasma circulating levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (cMCP‐1) and insulin resistance and to compare monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) adipose tissue gene expression and cMCP‐1 in relation with inflammatory markers.

Research Methods and Procedures: cMCP‐1 was measured in n = 116 consecutive control male subjects to whom an insulin sensitivity (Si) test was performed. Circulating levels of soluble CD14, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2 (sTNFR2), soluble interleukin‐6 (sIL‐6), and adiponectin also were measured. Subcutaneous adipose tissue samples were obtained from n = 107 non‐diabetic and type 2 diabetic subjects with different degrees of obesity. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure gene expression of MCP‐1, CD68, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and its receptor TNFR2.

Results: In the Si study, no independent effect of cMCP‐1 levels on insulin sensitivity was observed. In the expression study, in non‐diabetic subjects, MCP‐1 mRNA had a positive correlation with BMI (r = 0.407, p = 0.003), TNF‐α mRNA (r = 0.419, p = 0.002), and TNFR2 mRNA (r = 0.410, p = 0.003). In these subjects, cMCP‐1 was found to correlate with waist‐to‐hip ratio (r = 0.322, p = 0.048). In patients with type 2 diabetes, MCP‐1 mRNA was up‐regulated compared with non‐diabetic subjects. TNF‐α mRNA was found to independently contribute to MCP‐1 mRNA expression. In this group, CD68 mRNA was found to correlate with BMI (r = 0.455, p = 0.001).

Discussion: cMCP‐1 is not associated with insulin sensitivity in apparently healthy men. TNF‐α is the inflammatory cytokine associated with MCP‐1 expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue.
Effect of Meta‐chlorophenylpiperazine and Cholecystokinin on Food Intake of Osborne‐Mendel and S5B/P1 Rats
Authors: White Christy L. , Ishihara Yuri , York David A. , Bray George A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To investigate whether there is a difference in sensitivity to a serotonin agonist, meta‐chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP), or cholecystokinin (CCK‐8), an intestinal hormone that inhibits food intake, between the Osborne‐Mendel (OM) rat, which becomes obese eating a high‐fat diet, and the S5B/Pl (S5B) rat, which is resistant to dietary‐induced obesity.

Research Methods and Procedures: OM and S5B rats were adapted to either a high‐saturated‐fat diet (56% energy as fat) or a low‐fat diet (10% energy as fat) or to both for 14 days and then treated with several doses of mCPP or CCK‐8.

Results: Treatment with mCPP reduced food intake in both strains of rats. The dose‐response curve showed that the OM rats had an increased sensitivity to the serotonergic agonist. Animals eating the high‐fat diet had less response to mCPP; and in the S5B rats, the response was significantly reduced. After treatment with CCK‐8, there was a similar dose‐related suppression of food intake in both the OM and S5B rats.

Discussion: These data are consistent with the hypothesis that the serotonin system in the S5B rat has a greater activity that could act to inhibit fat intake. The response to CCK was not significantly affected by strain or diet.
Identification of Endocannabinoids and Related Compounds in Human Fat Cells
Authors: Gonthier Marie‐Paule , Hoareau Laurence , Festy Franck , Matias Isabel , Valenti Marta , Bès‐Houtmann Sandrine , Rouch Claude , Silva Christine Robert‐Da , Chesne Serge , d'Hellencourt Christian Lefebvre , Césari Maya , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Roche Régis
Published: July 2008

Objective: Recently, an activation of the endocannabinoid system during obesity has been reported. More particularly, it has been demonstrated that hypothalamic levels of both endocannabinoids, 2‐arachidonoylglycerol and anandamide (N‐arachidonoylethanolamine), are up‐regulated in genetically obese rodents. Circulating levels of both endocannabinoids were also shown to be higher in obese compared with lean women. Yet, the direct production of endocannabinoids by human adipocytes has never been demonstrated. Our aim was to evaluate the ability of human adipocytes to produce endocannabinoids.

Research Methods and Procedures: The production of endocannabinoids by human adipocytes was investigated in a model of human white subcutaneous adipocytes in primary culture. The effects of leptin, adiponectin, and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐γ activation on endocannabinoid production by adipocytes were explored. Endocannabinoid levels were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)‐atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI)‐mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, leptin and adiponectin secretion measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and PPAR‐γ protein expression examined by Western blotting.

Results: We show that 2‐arachidonoylglycerol, anandamide, and both anandamide analogs, N‐palmitoylethanolamine and N‐oleylethanolamine, are produced by human white subcutaneous adipocytes in concentrations ranging from 0.042 ± 0.004 to 0.531 ± 0.048 pM/mg lipid extract. N‐palmitoylethanolamine is the most abundant cannabimimetic compound produced by human adipocytes, and its levels are significantly down‐regulated by leptin but not affected by adiponectin and PPAR‐γ agonist ciglitazone. N‐palmitoylethanolamine itself does not affect either leptin or adiponectin secretion or PPAR‐γ protein expression in adipocytes.

Discussion: This study has led to the identification of human adipocytes as a new source of endocannabinoids and related compounds. The biological significance of these adipocyte cannabimimetic compounds and their potential implication in obesity should deserve further investigations.
Enhanced Muscle Mixed and Mitochondrial Protein Synthesis Rates after a High‐fat or High‐sucrose Diet
Authors: Chanseaume Emilie , Giraudet Christophe , Gryson Céline , Walrand Stéphane , Rousset Paulette , Boirie Yves , Morio Béatrice
Published: July 2008

Objective: Obesity and insulin resistance are associated with muscle mitochondrial dysfunction, which might be related to impairment of mitochondrial protein synthesis. This study aimed at investigating mixed and mitochondrial protein synthesis in skeletal muscle in response to dietary manipulations.

Research Methods and Procedures: High‐sucrose (SU) and high‐fat, high‐sucrose (F) diets were provided for 6 weeks to Wistar rats at standard (N) and high (H) energy intakes and compared with controls. Fractional synthesis rates of mixed (FSRPT) and mitochondrial (FSRm) proteins within the oxidative (soleus) and glycolytic (tibialis) muscles were measured using stable isotope flooding dose technique using l‐[13C]‐valine. Carbonyl content, citrate synthase, and cytochrome c oxidase activities were assayed spectrophotometrically on isolated mitochondria.

Results: In the soleus, FSRPT was increased by 40% in the NSU and NF groups and by 65% in the HSU and HF groups (p < 0.001 vs. control). FSRm was increased with high‐fat diets (NF, +16%; HF, +32%; p < 0.01). In the tibialis, FSRPT was enhanced in all experimental groups (+31% to 37%, p < 0.05 vs. control). FSRm was augmented in the NSU, NF, and HF groups (+28% to 32%, p < 0.01). Cytochrome c oxidase activity was significantly decreased in all experimental groups in the soleus (p < 0.001).

Discussion: Muscle mixed and mitochondrial protein FSR are enhanced after short‐term dietary intervention known to induce insulin resistance and obesity. Adaptations are muscle type specific and may not explain alterations in mitochondrial oxidative capacity but might contribute to maintain mitochondrial functioning.
Obesity History as a Predictor of Walking Limitation at Old Age
Authors: Stenholm Sari , Rantanen Taina , Alanen Erkki , Reunanen Antti , Sainio Päivi , Koskinen Seppo
Published: July 2008

Objective: To study whether walking limitation at old age is determined by obesity history.

Research Methods and Procedures: In a retrospective longitudinal study based on a representative sample of the Finnish population of 55 years and older (2055 women and 1337 men), maximal walking speed, body mass, and body height were measured in a health examination. Walking limitation was defined as walking speed <1.2 m/s or difficulty in walking 0.5 km. Recalled height at 20 years of age and recalled weight at 20, 30, 40, and 50 years of age were recorded.

Results: Subjects who had been obese at the age of 30, 40, or 50 years had almost a 4‐fold higher risk of walking limitation compared to non‐obese. Obesity duration increased the age‐ and gender‐adjusted risk of walking limitation among those who had been obese since the age of 50 (odds ratio, 4.33; 95% confidence interval, 2.59 to 7.23, n = 114), among the obese since the age of 40 [6.01 (2.55 to 14.14), n = 39], and among the obese since the age of 30 [8.97 (3.06 to 26.29), n = 14]. The risk remained elevated even among those who had previously been obese but lost weight during their midlife or late adulthood [3.15 (1.63 to 6.11), n = 71].

Discussion: Early onset of obesity and obesity duration increased the risk of walking limitation, and the effect was only partially mediated through current BMI and higher risk of obesity‐related diseases. Preventing excess weight gain throughout one's life course is an important goal in order to promote good health and functioning in older age.
The Efficacy of a Technology‐based System in a Short‐term Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention
Authors: Polzien Kristen M. , Jakicic John M. , Tate Deborah F. , Otto Amy D.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to examine the efficacy of adding a technology‐based program to an in‐person, behavioral weight loss intervention.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fifty‐seven subjects (BMI = 33.1 ± 2.8 kg/m2; age = 41.3 ± 8.7 years) participated in a 12‐week intervention with random assignment to Standard In‐Person Behavioral Weight Control Program (SBWP) or Intermittent or Continuous Technology‐Based Program (INT‐TECH, CON‐TECH). SBWP subjects received seven individualized weight loss sessions encouraging dietary and exercise modifications. INT‐TECH and CON‐TECH subjects received all SBWP components; additionally, these groups used a SenseWear Pro Armband (BodyMedia, Inc.) to monitor energy expenditure and an Internet‐based program to monitor eating behaviors. These features were used by INT‐TECH subjects during weeks 1, 5, and 9 and CON‐TECH subjects weekly throughout the intervention.

Results: Intent‐to‐treat analysis revealed weight loss of 4.1 ± 2.8 kg, 3.4 ± 3.4 kg, and 6.2 ± 4.0 kg, for SBWP, INT‐TECH, and CON‐TECH groups, respectively (CON‐TECH > INT‐TECH, p ≤ 0.05).

Discussion: These results indicate that the technology‐based program needs to be used continuously throughout the intervention period to significantly impact weight loss. Future studies should examine the long‐term and independent effect of this technology on weight loss, and for whom this intervention format is most effective.
Developmental Trajectories of Overweight During Childhood: Role of Early Life Factors
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Goran Michael I. , Kaur Harsohena , Nollen Nicole , Ahluwalia Jasjit S.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Our goal was to identify developmental trajectories of overweight in children and to assess early life influences on these trajectories.

Research Methods and Procedures: Participants consisted of 1739 white, black, and Hispanic children who were younger than 2 years at the first survey and were followed up to 12 years of age. Repeated measures of overweight, defined as BMI ≥95th percentile, were used to identify overweight trajectories with a latent growth mixture modeling approach.

Results: Three distinct overweight trajectories were identified: 1) early onset overweight (10.9%), 2) late onset overweight (5.2%), and 3) never overweight (83.9%). After adjustment for multiple potential risk factors, male gender [odds ratio (OR), 1.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.0 to 2.2], black ethnicity (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.6), maternal 25 ≤ BMI <30 kg/m2 (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.3 to 3.7) or ≥30 kg/m2 (OR, 5.1; 95% CI, 2.9 to 9.1), maternal weight gain during pregnancy ≥20.43 kg (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.9), and birth weight ≥4000 g (OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.2 to 3.4) were associated with an increased risk of early onset overweight. These risk factors, except maternal weight gain, exerted similar effects on late onset overweight. In addition, maternal smoking (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 0.8 to 3.1) and birth order ≥3 (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.0 to 5.2) were associated with an increased risk of late onset overweight only. Breastfeeding ≥4 months was associated with a decreased risk of both early (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.3 to 1.3) and late onset overweight (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.3 to 1.7).

Discussion: Two trajectories of overweight and one never overweight group were identified. Early life predictors may have a significant influence on the developmental trajectories of overweight in children.
Gender‐specific Links Between Hepatic 11β Reduction of Cortisone and Adipokines
Authors: Mattsson Cecilia , Rask Eva , Carlström Kjell , Andersson Jonas , Eliasson Mats , Ahrén Bo , Söderberg Stefan , Olsson Tommy
Published: July 2008

Objective: Reduction of cortisone to cortisol is mediated by 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11βHSD1), a putative key enzyme in obesity‐related complications. Experimental studies suggest that adipokines, notably leptin and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), are of importance for 11βHSD1 activity. We hypothesized that the regulation of hepatic preceptor glucocorticoid metabolism is gender‐specific and associated with circulating levels of leptin and TNF‐α receptors and/or sex hormones.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 34 males and 38 women (14 premenopausal and 22 postmenopausal) underwent physical examination and fasting blood sampling. Insulin sensitivity was tested by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamps, and hepatic 11βHSD1 enzyme activity was estimated by the conversion of orally‐ingested cortisone to cortisol.

Results: Hepatic 11βHSD1 activity was negatively associated with leptin and soluble TNF (sTNF) r1 and sTNFr2 in males. These correlations remained significant after adjustment for age and insulin sensitivity, and for sTNF‐α receptors also after adjustment of BMI and waist circumference. In contrast, 11β reduction of cortisone was positively associated to leptin in females after adjustment for BMI and waist circumference.

Discussion: Hepatic 11β reduction shows different links to circulating adipocyte‐derived hormones in males and females. This emphasizes the need for further studies on tissue‐specific regulation of 11βHSD1 in both genders.
BMI and Waist Circumference in Predicting Cardiovascular Risk Factor Clustering in Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Ng Vanessa W. S. , Kong Alice P. S. , Choi Kai Chow , Ozaki Risa , Wong Gary W. K. , So Wing Yee , Tong Peter C. Y. , Sung Rita Y. T. , Xu L. Y. , Chan Michael H. M. , Ho Chung Shun , Lam Christopher W. K. , Chan Juliana C. N.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To derive the optimal BMI and waist circumference (WC) cut‐off values to predict clustering of cardiovascular risk factors in Hong Kong Chinese adolescents.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 2102 Hong Kong Chinese 12 to 19 years of age were recruited. Participants were considered to have clustering of risk factors if at least three of the following risk factors were present: 1) high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) ≤1.03 mM, 2) low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) ≥2.6 mM, 3) triglyceride (TG) ≥1.24 mM, 4) fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥6.1 mM, and 5) age‐, sex‐, and height‐adjusted systolic or diastolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 90th percentile. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were generated to identify the optimal age‐adjusted BMI and WC cut‐off values to predict clustering of risk factors in boys and girls separately. These age‐adjusted BMI and WC cut‐offs were transformed to percentile values. Cole's lambda‐mu‐sigma (LMS) method was used to obtain smoothed age‐specific BMI and WC at these percentile values.

Results: The areas under ROC curves for BMI in girls and boys were 0.85 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.77 to 0.92] and 0.76 (95% CI, 0.66 to 0.85), respectively. The respective areas under ROC curves for WC in girls and boys were 0.82 (95% CI, 0.74 to 0.91) and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.68 to 0.87). The optimal BMI thresholds were at the 78th percentile for girls and the 72nd percentile for boys. The respective values for WC were at the 77th percentile for girls and the 76th percentile for boys. The sensitivities and specificities of these cut‐off values ranged from 72% to 80%.

Discussion: Age‐ and sex‐specific BMI and WC cut‐off values can be used to identify adolescents with clustering of cardiovascular risk factors.
Changes in Obesity‐related Attitudes in Women Seeking Weight Reduction
Authors: Crerand Canice E. , Wadden Thomas A. , Foster Gary D. , Sarwer David B. , Paster Lauren M. , Berkowitz Robert I.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To examine changes in obesity‐related attitudes in a sample of obese women who participated in either dieting or non‐dieting interventions.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 123 obese women were randomly assigned to one of three weight control programs: meal replacement diet, balanced deficit diet, or a non‐dieting program. (The first two groups were combined as a single dieting condition.) Participants completed questionnaires (at baseline, Week 20, and Week 40) to assess beliefs and attitudes about obesity, along with measures of self‐esteem, depression, and body image.

Results: At Weeks 20 and 40, participants in the non‐dieting condition reported significantly less negativity about obesity than those in the dieting group. Women in the dieting condition did not report an increase in negative attitudes toward obesity, despite losing significantly more weight than non‐dieting participants. Both groups experienced improvements in self‐esteem, body image, and depressive symptoms. Improvement in self‐esteem was associated with a reduction in negativity about obesity and with improvements in body image.

Discussion: The non‐dieting program produced greater reductions in negative attitudes toward obesity than the dieting intervention. Dieting (with successful weight loss), however, did not result in greater negativity toward obesity. Non‐dieting programs seem to be useful in obese women for improving self‐esteem, body image, and internalized negative attitudes about obesity.
Differential Lipolytic Regulation in Human Embryonic Stem Cell–derived Adipocytes
Authors: van Harmelen Vanessa , Åström Gaby , Strömberg Amy , Sjölin Eva , Dicker Andrea , Hovatta Outi , Rydén Mikael
Published: July 2008

Objective: Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have raised great hopes for future clinical applications. Several groups have succeeded in differentiating hESCs into adipocytes, as determined by morphology, mRNA expression, and protein secretion. However, determination of lipolytic response, the most important characteristic of adipocytes, has not been performed. This work was intended to study adipogenic conversion of hESCs by functional assessment of differentiation.

Research Methods and Procedures: Single undifferentiated colonies were allowed to transform into embryonic bodies. mRNA expression for a set of adipocyte‐specific genes and leptin/adiponectin secretion and lipolysis were assessed at different time‐points after differentiation.

Results: In contrast to primary human adipocytes, hESC‐derived adipocytes showed a very small response to classical β‐adrenergic agonists, although they expressed the major genes in the lipolytic cascade. In contrast, there was a significant lipolytic response to atrial natriuretic peptide.

Discussion: Although hESC‐derived adipocytes seem to be morphologically and expressionally similar to mature adipocytes, there are important functional differences that could depend on their early developmental origin. We conclude that, in contrast to mature adipocytes, hESC‐derived adipocytes display a differential response to atrial natriuretic peptide and catecholamines.
Wise Mind Project: A School‐based Environmental Approach for Preventing Weight Gain in Children
Authors: Williamson Donald A. , Copeland Amy L. , Anton Stephen D. , Champagne Catherine , Han Hongmei , Lewis Leslie , Martin Corby , Newton Robert L. , Sothern Melinda , Stewart Tiffany , Ryan Donna
Published: July 2008

Objective: The Wise Mind pilot study compared the efficacy of an environmental approach for prevention of inappropriate weight gain in children with an active control condition that used an environmental approach for modifying expectancies related to the use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 670 second to sixth grade students from four schools were enrolled in the study. The study spanned 2 academic years, and 586 students were available for evaluation at the end of the study. Two schools were randomly assigned to each treatment arm. The environmental approach for weight gain prevention focused on modification of eating habits and physical activity, and the active control group focused on modification of expectancies related to substance use.

Results: Using an intention to treat design, the study found no differences in weight gain prevention between the two interventions. The weight gain prevention program was associated with reduction of total caloric intake, reduction of dietary fat intake, reduction of protein intake, and increased physical activity in comparison with the active control group and relative to baseline. These changes in food intake were attributed to changes in food selections that resulted from modification of school cafeteria menus and food preparation.

Discussion: The Wise Mind school‐based weight gain prevention program induced behavioral changes in healthy eating and physical activity but did not induce significant changes in body weight in comparison with the control arm. Recommendations for future research are provided.
Weight Cycling and 6‐Year Weight Change in Healthy Adults: The Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study
Authors: Van Wye Gretchen , Dubin Joel A. , Blair Steven N. , Di Pietro Loretta
Published: July 2008

Objective: To determine the longitudinal relationship between a reported history of weight cycling and the trajectory of weight in a group of normal‐weight to obese women and men.

Research Methods and Procedures: This was a clinic‐based cohort study conducted over 6 years. Subjects were healthy women (n = 141) and men (n = 797) age 20 to 78 years who completed at least four comprehensive medical exams at the Cooper Clinic (Dallas, TX) between 1987 and 2003. Weight loss history was reported, and body weight was measured at all examinations. Weight cycling status was derived from weight loss history and defined as ≥five episodes of weight loss of ≥2.3 kg/episode. Using linear mixed effects models, weight at each examination was regressed on weight cycling status separately for women and men while controlling for selected covariables.

Results: Baseline BMI was 23 and 21 kg/m2 among cycling and non‐cycling women and was 27 and 25 kg/m2 among cycling and non‐cycling men, respectively. We observed a non‐significant difference (p = 0.09) in women by cycling status (average weight gain = 0.5 and 0.2 kg/yr among cyclers and non‐cyclers, respectively) and no difference in weight gain over time among men by cycling status (average weight gain = 0.2 kg/yr among both groups, p = 0.99). Higher baseline cardiorespiratory fitness level and increased fitness over the follow‐up were associated with attenuated weight gain in both women and men.

Discussion: In healthy, middle‐aged individuals, a history of weight cycling does not seem to increase the risk of long‐term weight gain in men; however, this relation needs to be studied further in women.
Glucose Dysregulation in Obese Children: Predictive, Risk, and Potential Protective Factors
Authors: Xekouki Paraskevi , Nikolakopoulou Nikoleta M. , Papageorgiou Anna , Livadas Sarantis , Voutetakis Antonis , Magiakou Maria‐Alexandra , Chrousos George P. , Spiliotis Bessie E. , Dacou‐Voutetakis Catherine
Published: July 2008

Objective: The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and type 2 diabetes (DM2) in obese children and adolescents of Greek origin and compare our data with pertinent literature findings in an attempt to uncover predictive, risk, and preventive factors.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 117 obese children and adolescents 12.1 ± 2.7 years old underwent a 2‐hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Insulin resistance (IR) and β‐cell function were estimated using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)‐IR and the insulinogenic index, respectively.

Results: A total of 17 patients (14.5%) had IGT, and none had DM2. The overall prevalence rates of both IGT and DM2 in our subjects were lower than those reported in a recent multiethnic U.S. study. Nevertheless, the difference between our IGT data and those of the U.S. study was due mostly to the prepubertal subjects (9% vs. 25.4%), whereas no difference was observed in the pubertal population (18% vs. 21%). Fasting glucose, insulin, and HOMA‐IR values were not predictive of IGT. The absolute value of insulin at 2 hours of the OGTT combined with the time‐integrated glycemia (AUCG) can strongly predict IGT, whereas higher area under the curve for insulin (AUCI) values were found to be protective.

Discussion: In ethnic groups less prone to diabetes development, IGT or DM2 in obese subjects is more likely to develop at puberty than at the prepubertal stage. It is advisable that physicians caring for obese adolescents perform an OGTT for early detection of IGT because HOMA‐IR values, although higher in IGT subjects and indicative of IR, cannot predict IGT.
Waist‐to‐Height Ratio is an Accurate and Easier Index for Evaluating Obesity in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Yan Weili , Bingxian He , Hua Yao , Jianghong Dai , Jun Cui , Dongliang Ge , Yujian Zheng , Ling Li , Yanying Guo , Kaiti Xiao , Xiaohai Fu , Da Ma
Published: July 2008

Objectives: The present study aims to evaluate the accuracy of the index of waist‐to‐height ratio (WHTR), and proposed the optimal thresholds of WHTR in the definition of childhood overweight and obesity in a bi‐ethnic Chinese school‐aged population.

Research Methods and Procedures: Overweight and obese were identified by BMI for age and gender in a random sample including 2055 Han and 2132 Uygur ethnic school‐aged children (8 to 18 years old). WHTR was calculated by waist circumference divided by height on the basis of standard anthropometric measurements. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to assess the accuracy of WHTR as a diagnostic test for childhood overweight and obesity, compared with waist circumference. The optimal thresholds of WHTR for defining overweight and obesity were recommended respectively by gender. The correlation between WHTR and age was analyzed and compared with BMI.

Results: A‐values (area under curve) of WHTR for diagnosing overweight and obesity were both over 0.90 in both genders and better than those of waist circumference. A threshold of 0.445 was identified for overweight in both genders, with the sensitivity and specificity >0.80. The thresholds for defining obesity was 0.485 in boys and 0.475 in girls, both having the sensitivity and specificity >0.90. WHTR showed less association with age than BMI.

Conclusions: WHTR is a simple, easy, accurate, and non‐age‐dependent index with high applicability to screening overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. The use of WHTR in the general childhood population has been justified by this study.
Secular Trends in Childhood Obesity in Denmark During 50 Years in Relation to Economic Growth
Authors: Bua Jenny , Olsen Lina W. , Sørensen Thorkild I. A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Our aim was to examine whether secular trends in childhood overweight and obesity during five decades could be explained by economic growth.

Research Methods and Procedures: Annual measurements of height and weight were available for all children born between 1930 and 1983 attending primary school in the Copenhagen Municipality: 165,389 boys and 163,609 girls from the age of 7 through 13 years. After computerization, we calculated BMI (kg/m2) and estimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity, according to international age‐ and gender‐specific criteria, by year of birth and of measurement, and separately by each age group and gender. Economic growth was indicated by the Gross National Product and the overall consumption per capita, adjusted for inflation.

Results: The prevalence of overweight occurred in phases: an increase from 1930 until the 1950s, followed by a plateau period between the 1950s and the 1960s and a steep increase thereafter. This pattern was apparent across all age groups and in both genders. Obesity trends showed a similar phase pattern; the prevalence remained relatively stable from 1930 until the 1940s, increased until the mid‐1950s, followed by a plateau until 1965, and thereafter a second steep increase. Obesity trends were similar among boys across all age groups, although only among girls from 11 to 13 years of age. In both genders, increments were most pronounced in the upper BMI percentiles. After stagnation until 1947, the economic growth indicators showed a steady increase; i.e., after the first increase started in overweight and obesity, whether analyzed by year of birth or year of measurement, there were no indications of phases in the rise thereafter.

Discussion: Prevalence of overweight and obesity among Danish children rose in phases, which were not paralleled by trends in economic growth. The macroeconomic growth indicators seem inappropriate as proxies for the environmental exposures that have elicited the obesity epidemic.
Abdominal Obesity and Coronary Heart Disease in Thai Men
Authors: Aekplakorn Wichai , Pakpeankitwatana Varapat , Lee Crystal M.Y. , Woodward Mark , Barzi Federica , Yamwong Sukit , Unkurapinun Nongnuj , Sritara Piyamitr
Published: July 2008

Objective: To determine the association of four simple anthropometric indices with coronary heart disease (CHD) in Thai men, and to determine the optimal cut‐off points for each index in the prediction of CHD.

Research Methods and Procedures: This is a cohort study with 17 years of follow‐up. A total of 2536 male employees from the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand 35 to 59 years of age at baseline were included in the study. Height, weight, waist circumference, and hip circumference were measured to generate BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR). Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios by thirds of each index. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess discrimination of CHD.

Results: WHtR was most strongly associated with CHD events in Thai men. The age‐adjusted hazard ratio for those in the highest, compared with the lowest, third was 2.89 (1.37, 6.11). Although WHtR had the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with the optimal cut‐off estimated to be 0.51 (sensitivity, 55%; specificity, 61%), no statistically significant difference (p > 0.10) was found between the AUC for WHtR and that for the other three indices.

Conclusion: WHtR is, marginally, the best of the four indices considered to predict CHD events in Thai men.