bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and Heritability of Obesity and Associated Risk Factors in Vervet Monkeys
Authors: Kavanagh Kylie , Fairbanks Lynn A. , Bailey Julia N. , Jorgensen Matthew J. , Wilson Martha , Zhang Li , Rudel Lawrence L. , Wagner Janice D.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to determine the prevalence and heritability of obesity and risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome (MS) in a pedigreed colony of vervet monkeys.

Design: A cross‐sectional study of plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations, glycemic indices, and morphometric measures with heritability calculated from pedigree analysis. A selected population of females was additionally assessed for insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.

Subjects: All mature male (n = 98), pregnant (n = 40) and non‐pregnant female (n = 157) vervet monkeys were included in the study. Seven non‐pregnant females were selected on the basis of high or average glycated hemoglobin (GHb) for further characterization of carbohydrate metabolism.

Measurements: Morphometric measurements included body weight, length, waist circumference, and calculated BMI. Plasma lipids [total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C)] and glycemic measures (fasting blood glucose, insulin, and GHb) were measured. A homeostasis model assessment index was further reported. Glucose tolerance testing and hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamps were performed on 7 selected females.

Conclusion: Vervet monkeys demonstrate obesity, insulin resistance, and associated changes in plasma lipids even while consuming a low‐fat (chow) diet. Furthermore, these parameters are heritable. Females are at particular risk for central obesity and an unfavorable lipid profile (higher TG, TC, and no estrogen‐related increase in HDL‐C). Selection of females by elevated GHb indicated impaired glucose tolerance and was associated with central obesity. This colony provides a unique opportunity to study the development of obesity‐related disorders, including both genetic and environmental influences, across all life stages.
Polymorphisms in the SCD1 Gene: Associations With Body Fat Distribution and Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Warensjö Eva , Ingelsson Erik , Lundmark Per , Lannfelt Lars , Syvänen Ann‐Christine , Vessby Bengt , Risérus Ulf
Published: July 2008

Objective: Obesity and insulin resistance are major risk factors for metabolic diseases and are influenced by lifestyle and genetics. The lipogenic enzyme, stearoyl‐coenzyme A‐desaturase (SCD), is related to obesity. Further, SCD1‐deficent mice are protected against obesity and insulin resistance. We hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms in the SCD1 gene would be associated with obesity, insulin sensitivity, and estimated SCD activity in humans.

Research Methods and Procedures: The study population was 1143 elderly Swedish men taking part of a population‐based cohort study, the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men. Associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms and obesity (waist circumference and BMI), insulin sensitivity (assessed by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp), and estimated SCD activity (fatty acid ratios) were analyzed using linear regression analysis.

Results: Subjects homozygous for the rare alleles of rs10883463, rs7849, rs2167444, and rs508384 had decreased BMI and waist circumference and improved insulin sensitivity. The rare allele of rs7849 demonstrated the strongest effect on both insulin sensitivity [regression coefficient (β) = 1.19, p = 0.007] and waist circumference (β = −4.4, p = 0.028), corresponding to 23% higher insulin sensitivity and 4 cm less waist circumference.

Conclusion: This study indicates that genetic variations in the SCD1 gene are associated with body fat distribution and insulin sensitivity, results that accord well with animal data. These results need confirmation in other populations with a larger sample size.
Alcohol Intake, Insulin Resistance, and Abdominal Obesity in Elderly Men
Authors: Risérus Ulf , Ingelsson Erik
Published: July 2008

Objective: Moderate and high alcohol intake have been associated with decreased and increased risk of type 2 diabetes, respectively. Insulin resistance, insulin secretion, and abdominal obesity are major predictors of diabetes, but the links with alcohol intake remain contradictory because of limited data.

Research Methods and Procedures: In a population‐based cohort of 807 men (age, 70 years), we studied whether alcohol intake was related to insulin sensitivity, measured with the gold standard technique (euglycemic clamp), insulin secretion (early insulin response), or adiposity [BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist‐to‐hip ratio]. Alcohol intake was self‐reported (questionnaire) and was assessed from a validated 7‐day dietary record. The cross‐sectional associations were evaluated using multivariable linear regression, adjusting for smoking, education level, physical activity, dietary total energy intake, hypertension, diabetes, triglycerides, and cholesterol.

Results: In multivariable models, self‐estimated alcohol intake was not related to insulin sensitivity, early insulin response, or BMI, but was positively related to WC (β‐coefficient, 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.15 to 1.39; p = 0.02) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (0.006 [0.002–0.009], p = 0.003). The association with WC and waist‐to‐hip ratio was most pronounced in men in the lowest tertile of BMI. The results using dietary records were similar.

Discussion: Evaluated in a large sample in elderly men, neither insulin sensitivity measured by clamp technique nor insulin secretion was significantly associated with alcohol intake. However, high alcohol intake was associated with abdominal obesity, which might explain the higher diabetes risk previously observed in high alcohol consumers.
Components of Metabolic Syndrome Predicting Diabetes: No Role of Inflammation or Dyslipidemia
Authors: Norberg Margareta , Stenlund Hans , Lindahl Bernt , Andersson Christer , Weinehall Lars , Hallmans Gãran , Eriksson Jan W.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The diagnostic criteria and the clinical usefulness of the metabolic syndrome (MetSy) are currently questioned. The objective was to describe the structure of MetSy and to evaluate its components for prediction of diabetes type 2 (T2DM).

Research Methods and Procedures: This was a case‐referent study nested within a population‐based health survey. Among 33,336 participants, we identified 177 initially non‐diabetic individuals who developed T2DM after 0.1 to 10.5 years (mean, 5.4 years), and, for each diabetes case, two referents matched for sex, age, and year of health survey. Baseline variables included oral glucose tolerance test, BMI, blood pressure, blood lipids, adipokines, inflammatory markers, insulin resistance, and β‐cell function. Exploratory and confirmative factor analyses were applied to hypothesize the structure of the MetSy. The prediction of T2DM by the different factors was evaluated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results: A hypothetical five‐factor model of intercorrelated composite factors was generated. The inflammation, dyslipidemia, and blood pressure factors were predicitive only in univariate analysis. In multivariable analyses, two factors independently and significantly predicted T2DM: an obesity/insulin resistance factor and a glycemia factor. The composite factors did not improve the prediction of T2DM compared with single variables. Among the original variables, fasting glucose, proinsulin, BMI, and blood pressure values were predictive of T2DM.

Discussion: Our data support the concept of a MetSy, and we propose five separate clusters of components. The inflammation and dyslipidemia factors were not independently associated with diabetes risk. In contrast, obesity and accompanying insulin resistance and β‐cell decompensation seem to be two core perturbations promoting and predicting progression to T2DM.
Deep Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue: A Distinct Abdominal Adipose Depot
Authors: Walker Gillian E. , Verti Barbara , Marzullo Paolo , Savia Guilio , Mencarelli Monica , Zurleni Francesco , Liuzzi Antonio , Di Blasio Anna Maria
Published: July 2008

Objective: Abdominal visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) display significant metabolic differences, with VAT showing a functional association to metabolic/cardiovascular disorders. A third abdominal adipose layer, derived by the division of SAT and identified as deep subcutaneous adipose tissue (dSAT), may play a significant and independent metabolic role. The aim of this study was to evaluate depot‐specific differences in the expression of proteins key to adipocyte metabolism in a lean population to establish a potential physiologic role for dSAT.

Research Methods and Procedures: Adipocytes and preadipocytes were isolated from whole biopsies taken from superficial SAT (sSAT), dSAT, and VAT samples obtained from 10 healthy normal weight patients (7 women and 3 men), with a mean age of 56.4 ± 4.04 years and a mean BMI of 23.1 ± 0.5 kg/m2. Samples were evaluated for depot‐specific differences in insulin sensitivity using adiponectin, glucose transport protein 4 (GLUT4), and resistin mRNA and protein expression, glucocorticoid metabolism by 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type‐1 (11β‐HSD1) expression, and alterations in the adipokines leptin and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α).

Results: Although no regional differences in expression were observed for adiponectin or TNF‐α, dSAT whole biopsies and adipocytes, while intermediary to both sSAT and VAT, reflected more of the VAT expression profile of 11β‐HSD1, leptin, and resistin. Only in the case of the intracellular pool of GLUT4 proteins in whole biopsies was an independent pattern of expression observed for dSAT. In an evaluation of the homeostatic model, dSAT 11β‐HSD1 protein (r = 0.9573, p = 0.0002) and TNF‐α mRNA (r = 0.8210, p = 0.0236) correlated positively to the homeostatic model.

Discussion: Overall, dSAT seems to be a distinct abdominal adipose depot supporting an independent metabolic function that may have a potential role in the development of obesity‐associated complications.
Impact of Obesity on Left Ventricular Mass and Function in Subjects With Chronic Volume Overload
Authors: Ballo Piercarlo , Motto Andrea , Mondillo Sergio , Faraguti Sergio A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Previous studies evaluated the effect of obesity on left ventricular (LV) mass and systolic function in healthy subjects and in patients with coexistent chronic LV pressure overload due to hypertension, but no data exist regarding subjects with underlying volume overload. This study assessed the impact of overweight‐obesity on LV mass and systolic function in patients with coexistent chronic LV volume overload.

Research Methods and Procedures: In 885 subjects with degenerative aortic regurgitation, a common cause of LV volume overload, LV mass, ejection fraction, and myocardial contractility were determined by echocardiography.

Results: LV mass was greater in overweight (193.5 ± 54.2 g) and further increased in obese subjects (208.4 ± 63.6 g) in comparison with normal‐weight patients (177.7 ± 54.9 g) (p < 0.0001), and these differences were still evident after adjustment for LV workload, gender, and body size. Despite no differences in ejection fraction, LV myocardial contractility was lower in overweight (92.6 ± 14.8%) and obese subjects (91.7 ± 14.4%) than normal‐weight individuals (95.6 ± 16.0%) (p = 0.0058). The magnitudes of these effects were not different from those found in age‐, gender‐, and body size‐matched controls, suggesting additive interaction, rather than synergistic, between overweight‐obesity and the underlying condition of volume overload. Multivariate analysis showed that BMI independently predicted LV mass and that the negative effect on LV myocardial contractility was mediated by LV hypertrophy.

Discussion: Overweight and obesity are associated with LV hypertrophy and contractile impairment in patients with underlying chronic LV volume overload.
Genome‐wide Scan of Plasma Cholecystokinin in Baboons Shows Linkage to Human Chromosome 17
Authors: Voruganti V. Saroja , Tejero M. Elizabeth , Proffitt J. Michael , Cole Shelley A. , Freeland‐Graves Jeanne H. , Comuzzie Anthony G.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Cholecystokinin (CCK) is known to inhibit food intake and is an important signal for controlling meal volume, indicating a possible role in weight regulation. Our objective was to investigate genetic influences on plasma CCK in baboons.

Research Methods and Procedures: Subjects were 376 baboons (males = 113, females = 263) from the Southwest National Primate Research Center, housed at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research, San Antonio, Texas. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were analyzed. Genetic effects on plasma CCK were estimated by the maximum likelihood‐based variance components method implemented in the software program SOLAR (Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines).

Results: Male baboons (32.7 ± 6 kg) were much heavier than females (20.2 ± 4 kg). Similarly, mean (± standard deviation) plasma CCK values were also higher in male baboons (13.8 ± 6 pM) than female baboons (12.5 ± 4 pM). Significant heritabilities were observed for plasma CCK (0.14 ± 0.1, p < 0.05), body weight (h2 = 0.62 ± 0.15, p < 10−8), and glucose (h2 = 0.68 ± 0.17, p < 10−7). A genome‐wide scan of plasma CCK detected a strong signal for a quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome 17p12–13 [logarithm of the odds (LOD) = 3.1] near marker D17S804. Suggestive evidence of a second QTL was observed on chromosome 4q34–35 (LOD = 2.3) near marker D4S2374.

Discussion: A substantial contribution of additive genetic effects to the variation in plasma levels of CCK was demonstrated in baboons. The identification of a QTL for plasma CCK on chromosome 17p is significant, as several obesity‐related traits such as BMI, leptin, adiponectin, and acylation stimulating protein have already been mapped to this region.
Influence of Knee Osteoarthritis on Exercise Capacity and Quality of Life in Obese Adults
Authors: Sutbeyaz Serap Tomruk , Sezer Nebahat , Koseoglu Belma F. , Ibrahimoglu Faruk , Tekin Demet
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to determine whether knee osteoarthritis (OA) reduces exercise ambulatory capacity and impairs quality of life (QOL) in obese individuals.

Research Methods and Procedures: There were 56 subjects, with and without knee OA, who were obese. The subjects were evaluated with anthropometric measurements, a body composition assessment, maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test, 6‐minute walk test (6‐MWT), perceived exertion (RPE), self‐reported disability [Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC)], and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF‐36).

Results: VO2peak was significantly higher in the controls when compared with the patients (mean ± standard deviation, 1.584 ± 0.23 L/kg per min vs. 0.986 ± 0.20 L/kg per min; p < 0.001). Obese subjects without knee OA walked a significantly longer distance in the 6‐MWT than obese patients with knee OA (p < 0.001). We also observed significant negative correlation between Vo2max and RPE, WOMAC pain and physical limitation, and bodily pain and general health domains of short‐form 36.

Discussion: Knee OA reduces exercise and ambulatory capacity and impairs QOL in obese individuals. RPE, WOMAC pain, and SF‐36 items might provide information about exercise capacity in the obese subjects with knee OA. Our study confirms that exercise capacity and QOL might be improved by energetic and intensive treatment of pain resulting from knee OA.
Does Childhood Sexual Abuse Predict Young Adult's BMI? A Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Mamun Abdullah A. , Lawlor Debbie A. , O'Callaghan Michael J. , Bor William , Williams Gail M. , Najman Jake M.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to identify the extent to which childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is associated with BMI and overweight status in young adulthood and to examine whether any associations differ by gender.

Research Methods and Procedures: The Mater‐University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy is a prospective birth cohort from a population‐based sample involving 7223 singletons whose mothers were enrolled in the 1980s at the first antenatal visit. The present cohort consisted of a subgroup of 2461 young adults who had both self‐reported CSA data and measured BMI at 21 years.

Results: Of 1273 men, 10.5% reported non‐penetrative and 7.5% reported penetrative CSA before age 16 years. Of 1305 women, 20.6% reported non‐penetrative and 7.9% reported penetrative CSA by age 16 years. We found young women's BMI and the prevalence of overweight at age 21 were greater in those who experienced penetrative CSA. This association was robust to adjustment for a variety of potential confounders. However, there was no association between non‐penetrative CSA and BMI in women and no association between either category of CSA and BMI in men. There was statistical evidence for a gender difference in the association of CSA with mean BMI at age 21 (p value for statistical interaction <0.01 in all models).

Discussion: These findings suggest that among women, penetrative CSA is associated with greater BMI and increased odds of being overweight in later life, whereas in men, this association does not hold. This gender difference may reflect differences between women and men in the relationship between psychological trauma and body image or may be a chance subgroup finding.
Longitudinal Patterns of Breakfast Eating in Black and White Adolescent Girls
Authors: Albertson Ann M. , Franko Debra L. , Thompson Douglas , Eldridge Alison L. , Holschuh Nort , Affenito Sandra G. , Bauserman Robert , Striegel‐Moore Ruth H.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to describe the pattern of breakfast eating over time (“breakfast history”) and examine its associations with BMI and physical activity.

Research Methods and Procedures: This longitudinal investigation of patterns of breakfast eating included 1210 black and 1161 white girls who participated in the 10‐year, longitudinal National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study (NGHS). Three‐day food records were collected during annual visits beginning at ages 9 or 10 up to age 19. Linear regression and path analysis were used to estimate the associations between breakfast history, BMI, and physical activity.

Results: Among girls with a high BMI at baseline, those who ate breakfast more often had lower BMI at the end of the study (age 19), compared with those who ate breakfast less often. Path analysis indicated that energy intake and physical activity mediated the association between patterns of breakfast eating over time and BMI in late adolescence.

Discussion: The association between regular breakfast consumption over time and moderation of body weight among girls who began the study with relatively high BMI suggests that programs to address overweight in children and adolescents should emphasize the importance of physical activity and eating breakfast consistently.
Viral Mediated Neuropeptide Y Expression in the Rat Paraventricular Nucleus Results in Obesity
Authors: Tiesjema Birgitte , la Fleur Susanne E. , Luijendijk Mieneke C. M. , Brans Maike A. D. , Lin En‐Ju D. , During Matthew J. , Adan Roger A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Chronic central administration of neuropeptide Y (NPY) has dramatic effects on energy balance; however, the exact role of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in this is unknown. The aim of this study was to further unravel the contribution of NPY signaling in the PVN to energy balance.

Research Methods and Procedures: Recombinant adeno‐associated viral particles containing NPY (rAAV‐NPY) were injected in the rat brain with coordinates targeted at the PVN. For three weeks, body weight, food intake, endocrine parameters, body temperature, and locomotor activity were measured. Furthermore, effects on insulin sensitivity and expression of NPY, agouti‐related protein (AgRP), and pro‐opiomelanocortin in the arcuate nucleus were studied.

Results: Food intake was increased specifically in the light period, and dark phase body temperature and locomotor activity were reduced. This resulted in obesity characterized by increased fat mass; elevated plasma insulin, leptin, and adiponectin; decreased AgRP expression in the arcuate nucleus; and decreased insulin sensitivity; whereas plasma corticosterone was unaffected.

Discussion: These data suggest that increased NPY expression targeted at the PVN is sufficient to induce obesity. Interestingly, plasma concentrations of leptin and insulin were elevated before a rise in food intake, which suggests that NPY in the PVN influences leptin and insulin secretion independently from food intake. This strengthens the role of the PVN in regulation of energy balance by NPY.
Obese Reproductive‐Age Women Exhibit a Proatherogenic Inflammatory Response During Hyperglycemia
Authors: González Frank , Rote Neal S. , Minium Judi , O'Leary Valerie B. , Kirwan John P.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to determine if physiological hyperglycemia induces a proatherogenic inflammatory response in mononuclear cells (MNCs) in obese reproductive‐age women.

Research Methods and Procedures: Seven obese and 6 age‐matched lean women (20 to 39 years of age) underwent a 2‐hour 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test. The release of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) from MNCs cultured in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was measured after isolation from blood samples drawn fasting and 2 hours after glucose ingestion. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and intra‐nuclear nuclear factor κB (NFκB) from MNCs were quantified from the same blood samples. Insulin resistance was estimated by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). Total body fat and truncal fat were determined by DXA.

Results: Obese women had a higher (p < 0.03) total body fat (42.2 ± 1.1 vs. 27.7 ± 2.0%), truncal fat (42.1 ± 1.2 vs. 22.3 ± 2.4%), and HOMA‐IR (3.3 ± 0.5 vs. 1.8 ± 0.2). LPS‐stimulated IL‐6 release from MNCs was suppressed during hyperglycemia in lean subjects (1884 ± 495 vs. 638 ± 435 pg/mL, p < 0.05) but not in obese women (1184 ± 387 vs. 1403 ± 498 pg/mL). There was a difference (p < 0.05) between groups in the hyperglycemia‐induced MNC‐mediated release of IL‐6 (−1196 ± 475 vs. 219 ± 175 pg/mL) and IL‐1β (−79 ± 43 vs. 17 ± 12 pg/mL). In addition, the obese group exhibited increased (p < 0.05) MNC‐derived ROS generation (39.3 ± 9.9 vs. −1.0 ± 12.8%) and intra‐nuclear NFκB (9.4 ± 7.3 vs. −23.5 ± 13.5%). Truncal fat was positively correlated with the MNC‐derived IL‐6 response (ρ = 0.58, p < 0.05) and intra‐nuclear NFκB (ρ = 0.64, p < 0.05).

Discussion: These data suggest that obese reproductive‐age women are unable to suppress proatherogenic inflammation during physiological hyperglycemia. Increased adiposity may be a significant contributor to this pro‐inflammatory susceptibility.
Non‐dipping Blood Pressure in the Metabolic Syndrome Among Arabs of the Oman Family Study
Authors: Hassan Mohammed O. , Jaju Deepali , Albarwani Sulayma , Al‐Yahyaee Saeed , Al‐Hadabi Saleh , Lopez‐Alvarenga Juan C. , Rizvi Syed G. , Comuzzie Antony G. , Bayoumi Riad A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to examine the circadian changes in blood pressure and their relation to the metabolic syndrome and its components in Omani Arabs.

Research Methods and Procedures: Ambulatory blood pressure (ABPM) was recorded in 1124 subjects from 5 large, extended, consanguineous, and young Arab pedigrees. According to the International Diabetes Federation's definition, 264 subjects had the metabolic syndrome, a prevalence of 23%. Subjects were defined as non‐dippers when their nocturnal systolic blood pressure (SBP) fell by <10% from daytime SBP.

Results: Non‐dippers with the metabolic syndrome were 131 of 264 (50%), compared with 265 of 860 (31%) without the metabolic syndrome. Of the non‐dippers, 99 of 131 (76%) were females and 32 of 131 (24%) were males. Daytime and nighttime SBP and DBP and nighttime pulse pressure were significantly higher in non‐dipper subjects with the metabolic syndrome. The important determinants of a non‐dipping BP in this cohort were high BMI and high serum triglycerides.

Discussion: We hypothesize that obesity and nocturnal volume‐dependent hypertension may be involved in the pathophysiology of non‐dipping in the metabolic syndrome. This study showed that non‐dipping BP was common in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. Higher 24‐hour blood pressure load may add to the indices of the overall cardiovascular burden already associated with the metabolic syndrome.
Association Between Television in Bedroom and Adiposity Throughout Adolescence
Authors: Delmas Christelle , Platat Carine , Schweitzer Brigitte , Wagner Aline , Oujaa Mohamed , Simon Chantal
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to determine if having a television (TV) in the bedroom is associated with physical activity (PA), TV/video viewing, and adiposity throughout adolescence.

Research Methods and Procedures: Longitudinal data (September 2002 through June 2005) were analyzed of 379 initially 12‐year‐old French adolescents participating as controls in the Intervention Centered on Adolescents’ Physical activity and Sedentary behavior (ICAPS). Presence of a TV set in the bedroom (TVbedroom) and leisure activities were obtained by questionnaire. There was annual assessment of BMI, waist circumference, and body fat by bioimpedance.

Results: In boys but not girls, baseline TVbedroom was associated with higher TV/video viewing over time [odds ratio (OR) of high TV/video = 1.87; 95% confidence interval, 1.2 to 2.8] and less no‐sport club participation (OR = 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.35 to 1.0). Both boys and girls with baseline TVbedroom had lower reading time (p < 0.0001 in boys; p = 0.04 in girls), while PA did not differ according to TVbedroom for boys or for girls. For boys only, baseline TVbedroom was associated with higher BMI (mean BMI over time 20.5 ± 0.5 vs. 19.0 ± 0.5 kg/m2; p = 0.001), waist circumference (70.9 ± 0.9 vs. 67.2 ± 0.8 cm; p < 0.001), and body fat (15.9 ± 0.9% vs. 13.5 ± 0.9%; p < 0.001), without interaction with time. These relationships remained significant after adjustment for socioeconomic status. TV/video viewing explained 26%, 42%, and 36% of the relationships of TVbedroom with BMI, waist circumference, and body fat, respectively, while addition of other leisure activities in the models only marginally reduced the effects.

Discussion: These results suggest the importance of keeping TV out of an adolescent's bedroom from an obesity prevention perspective but show gender differences.
Maternal BMI and Country of Birth as Indicators of Childhood Obesity in Children of Mexican Origin
Authors: Hernández‐Valero María A. , Wilkinson Anna V. , Forman Michele R. , Etzel Carol J. , Cao Yumei , Bárcenas Carlos H. , Strom Sara S. , Spitz Margaret R. , Bondy Melissa L.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between maternal and childhood BMI at baseline in a group of 5‐ to 18‐year‐old children and their mothers, all of whom were of Mexican origin, low socioeconomic status, and enrolled in a cohort study in Houston, TX.

Research Methods and Procedures: Using data from 438 mother‐child dyads residing in the same household, we completed logistic regression analyses to determine maternal factors associated with the child being overweight or at‐risk‐for‐overweight, after adjusting for the child's gender, age, and level of physical activity and other maternal confounders.

Results: Almost one‐half of the boys and girls (47% and 44%, respectively) were either overweight or at‐risk‐for‐overweight. Obese mothers were twice as likely to have an overweight and/or at‐risk‐for‐overweight child compared with normal‐weight mothers. Women born in the U.S. were twice as likely to have an overweight and/or at‐risk‐for‐overweight child compared with women born in Mexico. In addition, women with less than a high school education were twice as likely to have an overweight child compared with their more educated peers.

Discussion: The high prevalence of overweight or at‐risk‐for‐overweight among Mexican‐origin children of low socioeconomic status suggests a continued need to develop and implement culturally sensitive preventive interventions for this minority population. Our data also suggest a need to tailor such interventions particularly for children of obese mothers and those born in the U.S.
Macrophage‐Adipocyte Interaction: Marked Interleukin‐6 Production by Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Yamashita Akiko , Soga Yoshihiko , Iwamoto Yoshihiro , Yoshizawa Sayuri , Iwata Hirotaka , Kokeguchi Susumu , Takashiba Shogo , Nishimura Fusanori
Published: July 2008

Objective: Recent studies suggested macrophages were integrated in adipose tissues, interacting with adipocytes, thereby exacerbating inflammatory responses. Persistent low‐grade infection by gram‐negative bacteria appears to promote atherogenesis. We hypothesized a ligand for toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), would further exaggerate macrophage‐adipocyte interaction.

Research Methods and Procedures: RAW264.7 macrophage cell line and differentiated 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes were co‐cultured using transwell system. As a control, each cell was cultured independently. After incubation of the cells with or without Escherichia coli LPS, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐6 production was evaluated.

Results: Co‐culture of macrophages and adipocytes with low concentration of Escherichia coli LPS (1 ng/mL) markedly up‐regulated IL‐6 production (nearly 100‐fold higher than that of adipocyte culture alone, p < 0.01), whereas TNF‐α production was not significantly influenced. This increase was partially inhibited by anti‐TNF‐α neutralizing antibody. Recombinant TNF‐α and LPS synergistically up‐regulated IL‐6 production in adipocytes. However, this increase did not reach the level of production observed in co‐cultures stimulated with LPS.

Discussion: A ligand for TLR‐4 stimulates macrophages to produce TNF‐α. TNF‐α, thus produced, cooperatively up‐regulates IL‐6 production with other soluble factors secreted either from adipocytes or macrophages in these cells. Markedly up‐regulated IL‐6 would greatly influence the pathophysiology of diabetes and its vascular complications.
Role of Adiponectin and Inflammation in Insulin Resistance of Mc3r and Mc4r Knockout Mice
Authors: Trevaskis James L. , Gawronska‐Kozak Barbara , Sutton Gregory M. , McNeil Michele , Stephens Jacqueline M. , Smith Steven R. , Butler Andrew A.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To investigate the involvement of hypoadiponectinemia and inflammation in coupling obesity to insulin resistance in melanocortin‐3 receptor and melanocortin‐4 receptor knockout (KO) mice (Mc3/4rKO).

Research Methods and Procedures: Sera and tissue were collected from 6‐month‐old Mc3rKO, Mc4rKO, and wild‐type C57BL6J litter mates maintained on low‐fat diet or exposed to high‐fat diet (HFD) for 1 or 3 months. Inflammation was assessed by both real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis of macrophage‐specific gene expression and immunohistochemistry.

Results: Mc4rKO exhibited hypoadiponectinemia, exacerbated by HFD and obesity, previously reported in murine models of obesity. Mc4r deficiency was also associated with high levels of macrophage infiltration of adipose tissue, again exacerbated by HFD. In contrast, Mc3rKO exhibited normal serum adiponectin levels, irrespective of diet or obesity, and a delayed inflammatory response to HFD relative to Mc4rKO.

Discussion: Our findings suggest that severe insulin resistance of Mc4rKO fed a HFD, as reported in other models of obesity such as leptin‐deficient (Lepob/Lepob) and KK‐Ay mice, is linked to reduced serum adiponectin and high levels of inflammation in adipose tissue. Conversely, maintenance of normal serum adiponectin may be a factor in the relatively mild insulin‐resistant phenotype of severely obese Mc3rKO. Mc3rKO are, thus, a unique mouse model where obesity is not associated with reduced serum adiponectin levels. A delay in macrophage infiltration of adipose tissue of Mc3rKO during exposure to HFD may also be a factor contributing to the mild insulin resistance in this model.
An Exploratory Study of Cardiac Function and Oxygen Uptake During Cycle Ergometry in Overweight Children
Authors: Unnithan Viswanath B. , Baynard Tracy , Potter Christopher R. , Barker Piers , Heffernan Kevin S. , Kelly Erin , Yates Greg , Fernhall Bo
Published: July 2008

Objective: Obesity has been proposed to negatively impact cardiac function in overweight (OW) individuals. The relationship between diastolic dysfunction and oxygen uptake (V̇o2) kinetics is equivocal. This exploratory investigation evaluated the relationship between resting left ventricular function and V̇o2 kinetics during cycle ergometry in OW and non‐overweight (NO) children and adolescents.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fourteen OW (>85 percentile for BMI for age and gender) children, 10 boys and 4 girls (age, 11.7 ± 1.9 years; body mass, 80.6 ± 45.5 kg) and 10 NO children (4 boys, 6 girls) volunteered to participate in the study (age, 12.5 ± 2.1 years; body mass, 45.8 ± 13.8 kg). Resting cardiovascular structure and function were assessed using spectral Doppler echocardiography. All subjects underwent two sub‐maximal exercise stages on a cycle ergometer (3 minutes unloaded and 5 minutes at 50 W, both at a cadence of 50 rpm). Respiratory data were measured on a breath‐by‐breath basis at both workloads and the mean response time (MRT) was calculated.

Results: Analysis of the MRT data demonstrated that there were no significant differences between OW and NO (OW, 52.6 ± 11.7 seconds vs. NO, 45.6 ± 7.4 seconds). Significant correlations (p < 0.05) were obtained between MRT V̇o2 and echocardiographic‐derived mitral valve inflow pressure half‐time (r = 0.55) and between MRT V̇o2, and mitral valve inflow deceleration time (r = 0.55).

Discussion: The evidence from this research suggests a possible link between left ventricular diastolic function at rest and oxygen uptake kinetics during sub‐maximal exercise in OW and NO children and adolescents.
Chromium (d‐Phenylalanine)3 Improves Obesity‐Induced Cardiac Contractile Defect in ob/ob Mice
Authors: Dong Feng , Yang Xiaoping , Sreejayan Nair , Ren Jun
Published: July 2008

Objective: Low‐molecular weight chromium compounds, such as chromium picolinate [Cr(pic)3], improve insulin sensitivity, although toxicity is a concern. We synthesized a novel chromium complex, chromium (d‐phenylalanine)3 [Cr(d‐phe)3], in an attempt to improve insulin sensitivity with reduced toxicity. The aim of this study was to compare the two chromium compounds on cardiac contractile function in ob/ob obese mice.

Research Methods and Procedures: C57BL lean and ob/ob obese mice were randomly divided into three groups: H2O, Cr(d‐phe)3, or Cr(pic)3 (45 µg/kg per day orally for 6 months).

Results: The glucose tolerance test displayed improved glucose clearance by Cr(d‐phe)3 but not Cr(pic)3. Myocytes from ob/ob mice exhibited depressed peak shortening (PS) and maximal velocity of shortening/relengthening (±dL/dt), prolonged time‐to‐PS and time‐to‐90% relengthening (TR90), reduced electrically stimulated rise in intracellular Ca2+ (Δfura‐2 fluorescence intensity), and slowed intracellular Ca2+ decay. Although a 3‐month Cr(d‐phe)3 treatment for a separate group of ob/ob and lean 2‐month‐old mice only rectified reduced ±dL/dt in ob/ob mice, all mechanical and intracellular Ca2+ abnormalities were significantly attenuated or ablated by 6 months of Cr(d‐phe)3 but not Cr(pic)3 treatment (except TR90). Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase activity and Na+‐Ca2+ exchanger expression were depressed in ob/ob mice, which were reversed by both Cr(d‐phe)3 and Cr(pic)3, with a more pronounced effect from Cr(d‐phe)3. Cr(d‐phe)3 corrected reduced insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake and improved basal phosphorylation of Akt and insulin receptor, as well as insulin‐stimulated phosphorylation of Akt and insulin receptor in ob/ob myocytes. Heart homogenates from ob/ob mice had enhanced oxidative stress and protein carbonyl formation compared with the lean group, which were attenuated by both Cr(d‐phe)3 and Cr(pic)3.

Discussion: Our data suggest that the new Cr(d‐phe)3 compound possesses better cardio‐protective and insulin‐sensitizing properties against obesity.
The Evaluation of a Mass Media Campaign Aimed at Weight Gain Prevention Among Young Dutch Adults
Authors: Wammes Birgitte , Oenema Anke , Brug Johannes
Published: July 2008

Objective: The objective was to evaluate a 3‐year nationwide mass media campaign aimed at preventing weight gain. The campaign was aimed primarily at raising awareness of the importance of weight‐gain prevention and bringing these issues to the attention of the Dutch public.

Research Methods and Procedures: Eleven serial, independent, cross‐sectional, population‐based telephone surveys were used to assess campaign awareness and impact (N ranged between 483 and 493 for each of the 11 surveys). The surveys were conducted before and after six campaign waves. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to test for trends over time and for differences among the surveys for campaign awareness, message recall, perceived body weight status, overweight‐related risk perceptions, attitudes, perceived social support, self‐efficacy expectations, and motivations for preventing weight gain.

Results: Campaign awareness ranged from 61% after the 1st campaign wave to 88.4% after the final wave. The campaign's television broadcasting activities were an important source of campaign awareness, from both the campaign's television commercials and television‐based free publicity. Message recall ranged from 41.9% to 68.1%. Small positive differences were found in attitudes, perceived social support, and intentions for preventing weight gain. Additionally, the results suggest mixed effects on self‐efficacy expectations and a negative effect on risk perception.

Discussion: The campaign resulted in high campaign awareness, especially as a result of television commercials and free publicity on television. The results suggest that the campaign was able to create more positive attitudes and motivation but lower risk perceptions and efficacy for preventing weight gain.
The Effects of Stress on Body Weight: Biological and Psychological Predictors of Change in BMI
Authors: Roberts Cliff , Troop Nicholas , Connan Frances , Treasure Janet , Campbell Iain C.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To investigate individual differences in the effects of stress on BMI.

Research Methods and Procedures: Participants were 71 healthy women volunteers enrolled in a university‐based nurse practitioner program. Predictors of change in BMI were hypothesized to be cortisol secretion, dietary restraint, bingeing, mastery, mood, and eating attitudes. Measures were made at the beginning of the academic semester and 12 weeks later during the participants’ examination period.

Results: The women were of normal weight (BMI 25.2 ± 4.3) for their age [43; standard deviation (SD), 7]. By the examination period, 40 had gained weight (mean, 5.5 pounds; SD, 2.2), 19 lost weight (mean, 2.5 pounds; SD, 1.5), and 12 had stable weight. BMI, salivary cortisol secretion, bingeing behavior, depression, and anxiety increased significantly, whereas scores on dietary restraint, weight, shape, and eating concerns, and mastery decreased significantly. Regression analysis showed that change in daily cortisol secretion significantly predicted change in BMI and that mastery significantly moderated this relationship. However, a reduction in dietary restraint was a perfect mediator of this relationship. Change in cortisol secretion also significantly predicted change in dietary restraint, and this was moderated by dietary restraint at the beginning of the academic semester. Reduction in dietary restraint was also predicted by a reduction in mastery and weight concern.

Discussion: We identified individual differences that confer vulnerability to weight gain during stressful life events (dietary restraint and mastery). Given that women are exposed to daily stressors and use cognitive strategies to restrain their dietary intake, increasing awareness of the role of stress on eating behavior and weight is an important goal.
Girls’ Perception of Neighborhood Factors on Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and BMI
Authors: Evenson Kelly R. , Scott Molly M. , Cohen Deborah A. , Voorhees Carolyn C.
Published: July 2008

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the association of perceived physical neighborhood factors with physical activity, sedentary behavior, and BMI among adolescent girls.

Research Methods and Procedures: Sixth grade girls (n = 1554) completed a questionnaire on neighborhood factors (e.g., safety, esthetics, access to physical activity resources). The dependent variables included non‐school metabolic equivalent weighted moderate to vigorous physical activity (MW‐MVPA) and non‐school sedentary behavior, both measured using accelerometry, and BMI.

Results: The following neighborhood factors were associated with lower BMI: seeing walkers and bikers on neighborhood streets, not having a lot of crime in the neighborhood, seeing other children playing outdoors, having bicycle or walking trails in the neighborhood, and access to physical activity facilities. The absolute contribution for the average girl for each of these neighborhood factors was relatively small, with none of these factors exceeding 0.8 kg/m2 BMI units. The following neighborhood factors were associated with higher MW‐MVPA: having well‐lit streets at night, having a lot of traffic in the neighborhood, having bicycle or walking trails in the neighborhood, and access to physical activity facilities. Girls with ≥9 places to go for physical activity had 14.0% higher non‐school MW‐MVPA than girls with ≤4 places.

Discussion: This study identified several neighborhood factors associated with non‐school MW‐MVPA and BMI, but none of the factors explored were associated with non‐school sedentary behavior. Of all of the neighborhood factors we examined, reporting more physically active destinations contributed the largest absolute amount to the average girl's non‐school MW‐MVPA, according to this cross‐sectional study.
Pre‐meal Water Consumption Reduces Meal Energy Intake in Older but Not Younger Subjects
Authors: Van Walleghen Emily L. , Orr Jeb S. , Gentile Chris L. , Davy Brenda M.
Published: July 2008

Objective: To determine whether the consumption of water 30 minutes before an ad libitum meal reduces meal energy intake in young and older adults.

Research Methods and Procedures: Healthy, non‐obese young (n = 29; age, 21 to 35 years) and older (n = 21; age, 60 to 80 years) individuals were provided with an ad libitum lunch meal on two occasions. Thirty minutes before the lunch meals, subjects were given either a water preload (WP: 375 mL, women; 500 mL, men) or no preload (NP). Energy intake at the two lunch meals was measured. Visual analog scales were used to assess changes in hunger, fullness, and thirst during the meal studies.

Results: There was no significant difference in meal energy intake between conditions in the young subjects (892 + 51 vs. 913 ± 54 kcal for NP and WP, respectively; p = 0.65). However, meal energy intake after the WP was significantly reduced relative to the NP condition in the older subjects (682 + 53 vs. 624 ± 56 kcal for NP and WP, respectively; p = 0.02). This effect was caused primarily by the reduction in meal energy intake after water consumption in older men. Hunger ratings were lower and fullness ratings were higher in older compared with younger adults (p < 0.01). Fullness ratings were higher in the WP condition compared with the NP condition for all subjects (p = 0.01). No age differences in thirst were detected during the test meals.

Discussion: Under acute test meal conditions, pre‐meal water consumption reduces meal energy intake in older but not younger adults. Because older adults are at increased risk for overweight and obesity, intervention studies are needed to determine whether pre‐meal water consumption is an effective long‐term weight management strategy for the aging population.
Psychosocial and Physical Impairment in Overweight Adolescents at High Risk for Eating Disorders
Authors: Doyle Angela Celio , Le Grange Daniel , Goldschmidt Andrea , Wilfley Denise E.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Many overweight adolescents display elevated risk for the development of eating disorders, as seen in higher rates of weight/shape concerns and disordered eating behaviors, but the extent of impairment in this subset of high‐risk adolescents has not been explored.

Research Methods and Procedures: Eighty‐one overweight adolescents (63% girls) presenting for an Internet‐based weight loss program were assessed at baseline using the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and the Pediatric Quality of Life questionnaire. Adolescents who earned elevated scores on both the Weight Concern and Shape Concern subscales of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire were considered at high risk for the development of eating disorders (56.8%).

Results: Comparisons of high‐ and normal‐risk groups revealed that high‐risk adolescents reported higher levels of depression [F(3,76) = 5.75, p = 0.019], anxiety [F(3,76) = 5.67, p = 0.020], and stress [F(3,75) = 8.50, p = 0.005], and greater impairments in physical health [F(3,77) = 10.7, p = 0.002], emotional functioning [F(3,77) = 5.3, p = 0.024], and social functioning [F(3,77) = 10.0, p = 0.002]. There were no differences in school functioning [F(3,77) = 1.5, p = 0.219]. Among the high‐risk adolescents, over half (52.2%) reported binge eating at least once in the past month.

Discussion: Results suggest that overweight adolescents at high risk for the development of eating disorders also experience elevated levels of negative affect, impairment in health‐related quality of life, and eating disturbances, although prospective data are needed to determine the directionality between eating disorder pathology and general psychopathology. Further research is warranted to evaluate whether behavioral weight loss interventions should be enhanced for this high‐risk subset.
Weight Loss Maintenance in Severely Obese Adults after an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention: 2‐ to 4‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Christiansen Tore , Bruun Jens M. , Madsen Erik L. , Richelsen Bjørn
Published: July 2008

Objective: To evaluate the long‐term weight loss maintenance after 2 to 4 years in severely obese subjects after a lifestyle intervention at a weight loss camp in Denmark.

Research Methods and Procedures: In a retrospective follow‐up study, we assessed weight loss after 21 weeks of treatment at a weight loss camp, weight loss maintenance after 2 to 4 years, and numbers of subjects with a weight loss maintenance of ≥10% of a total number of 435 severely obese adults participating in an intensive lifestyle intervention with a primary focus on physical activity.

Results: We obtained follow‐up data of 249 subjects (180 women and 69 men) with an initial body weight of 142 ± 32 kg. After 21 weeks at the camp, the subjects had reduced their body weight with a mean of 21.9 ± 13 kg (corresponding to a 15% weight loss). The average weight loss maintenance was 5.3% at a follow‐up after 2 to 4 years, and 28.3% had maintained a weight loss above 10% after 4 years of follow‐up.

Discussion: Weight loss camps are a relatively new commercial approach in treating severely obese subjects. However, the results demonstrate that even with a multidisciplinary intensive setting with focus on diet, exercise, and psychological counseling, only 28% had maintained a weight loss above 10% after 4 years. This emphasizes that obesity is a chronic condition that needs additional strategies after a weight loss intervention in the efforts to maintain a sufficient weight loss.