bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Dieting Lead to Weight Gain? A Four‐Year Longitudinal Study of Middle School Girls
Authors: Senf Janet H. , Shisslak Catherine M. , Crago Marjorie A.
Published: April 2008

Objective: A majority of the published longitudinal research on children has reported that dieting is related to weight gain at a later point in time. The purpose of this study was to look at weight control behaviors and patterns of weight gain and loss, specifically whether dieting is related to weight gain.

Research Methods and Procedures: Baseline data were collected from 1358 female students in grades 6 to 9 from schools in Hayward, CA, and Tucson, AZ. Data were obtained annually over a 4‐year period. Paper‐and‐pencil questionnaires and height and weight were obtained during the students’ regular classroom periods. Dieting was measured both with the single item, “In the past year, how often have you been on a diet to lose weight?” scored from “never” to “always,” and with a Dieting Behavior Scale including five items on weight control behaviors. Changes in BMI z‐scores were analyzed.

Results: On average, girls who reported “never” dieting were most likely to have an increased BMI z‐score at the next measurement, and those who reported “always” dieting were most likely to have a decreased BMI z‐score. The same pattern was true for the Dieting Behavior Scale.

Discussion: Our finding that dieting and weight gain were not related, independently of initial BMI, does not mean that dieting to lose weight is appropriate, especially among young girls. Additional research is needed both to examine this relationship and to determine exactly what behaviors children are engaging in when they report that they are dieting.
Retinal Vessel Diameters and Obesity: A Population‐Based Study in Older Persons
Authors: Wang Jie J. , Taylor Bronwen , Wong Tien Y. , Chua Brian , Rochtchina Elena , Klein Ronald , Mitchell Paul
Published: April 2008

Objective: Obesity is linked with large vessel atherosclerosis and diabetes. Its association with microvascular changes is less clear. We investigated the associations among retinal vessel diameters, vessel wall signs, and BMI in an older population.

Research Methods and Procedures: Retinal photographs were taken on 3654 persons aged 49+ years at baseline of the Blue Mountains Eye Study in Australia. Arteriolar and venular diameters were measured from digitized retinal photographs of the right eyes. BMI was calculated as weight (kilograms)/height (meters2). Incident obesity was defined in persons with BMI ≤ 30 at baseline but >30 after 5 years. A significant weight gain was defined as an increase in BMI of 2+ SDs (4 or more units) over the 5‐year period.

Results: At baseline, mean BMI was 26.1 (±4.6) in this population. At 5‐year examinations, 177 (10.0% of 1773 at risk) developed incident obesity, and 136 (6.4% of 2143 at risk) had significant weight gain. After adjusting for age, sex, smoking, triglyceride levels, and mean arterial blood pressure, persons with wider retinal venular diameters had a higher risk of incident obesity (odds ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.0 to 3.1, comparing the highest with lowest venular diameter quintiles) and significant weight gain (odds ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 0.9 to 3.2). These associations were attenuated with further adjustment for baseline BMI. Arteriolar diameter was unrelated with baseline or change in BMI.

Discussion: Wider retinal venular diameter is associated with risk of obesity, independent of hypertension, diabetes, lipids, and cigarette smoking. These data may support a role for impaired microvascular function in the course of weight gain.
A Comparison of Weight Histories in Women with Class III vs. Class I–II Obesity
Authors: Crerand Canice E. , Wadden Thomas A. , Sarwer David B. , Fabricatore Anthony N. , Kuehnel Robert H. , Gibbons Lauren M. , Brock Johanna R. , Williams Noel N.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To describe the weight histories of women with extreme or class III obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) in comparison with a sample of women with class I‐II obesity (BMI < 40 kg/m2) and to provide reliability data for a clinical instrument that assesses weight history.

Research Methods and Procedures: Female patients (N = 149) with extreme obesity seeking bariatric surgery and 90 class I–II obese women seeking behavioral treatment completed the Weight and Lifestyle Inventory (WALI), a self‐report instrument that assesses age of onset of obesity, maximum weight at different ages, family weight history, and weight changes related to pregnancy. Test‐retest reliability data were obtained by administering the WALI to a subsample (n = 58) of class I–II obese participants at their initial visit and at another pretreatment visit 1 to 2 weeks later.

Results: Patients with extreme obesity had a significantly younger age of onset of obesity, were significantly heavier at all age ranges, reported significantly more weight gain with their first pregnancy, and had significantly heavier parents and siblings as compared with less obese patients. There were no significant differences between groups with respect to weight gain during second pregnancies or postpartum weight retention. Robust test‐retest correlations were obtained for the weight history items on the WALI.

Discussion: Patients with extreme obesity report more indicators of a genetic predisposition to obesity as compared with less obese patients. The WALI appears to be a reliable instrument for the assessment of weight history in obese patients.
Previous Weight Loss Experiences of Bariatric Surgery Candidates: How Much Have Patients Dieted prior to Surgery?
Authors: Gibbons Lauren M. , Sarwer David B. , Crerand Canice E. , Fabricatore Anthony N. , Kuehnel Robert H. , Lipschutz Patti E. , Raper Steven E. , Williams Noel N. , Wadden Thomas A.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To describe the dieting histories of bariatric surgery candidates.

Research Methods and Procedures: One hundred seventy‐seven individuals with extreme obesity who sought bariatric surgery completed the Weight and Lifestyle Inventory, a self‐report instrument that assesses several variables, including weight and dieting history. Patients’ dieting histories were further explored with an aided recall during a preoperative behavioral/psychological evaluation performed by a mental health professional.

Results: Participants who completed the Weight and Lifestyle Inventory reported an average of 4.7 ± 2.9 successful dieting attempts, defined as those that resulted in a loss of 10 lbs (4.5 kg) or more. These individuals reported a mean total lifetime weight loss of 61.1 ± 41.3 kg. Despite these efforts, their weight increased from 89.4 ± 27.4 kg at the time of their first diet (age 21.2 ± 10.1 years) to 144.5 ± 30.8 kg at the time they underwent their behavioral/psychological evaluation (age 43.0 ± 11.0 years). Results of the aided recall revealed that participants had made numerous other efforts to lose weight that were unsuccessful. Self‐directed diets and commercial programs were used more frequently.

Discussion: Individuals who sought bariatric surgery reported an extensive history of dieting, beginning in adolescence, that was not successful in halting progressive weight gain. Thus, the recommendation often made by insurance companies that patients delay surgery to attempt more conservative treatment options may be unwarranted, particularly in the presence of significant obesity‐related comorbidities. Weight loss histories should be routinely examined during a behavioral evaluation to determine whether additional attempts at non‐surgical weight loss are advisable. Future studies also are needed to explore the potential relationship between dieting history and postoperative outcome.
Importance of Diagnosing and Treating the Metabolic Syndrome in Reducing Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Smith Steven R.
Published: April 2008

Applying the criteria for the metabolic syndrome serves as a simple and inexpensive tool for identifying patients at high risk for diabetes and coronary heart disease, particularly those who do not fall into traditional risk categories. Several independent physiological processes underlie the non‐random risk‐factor clustering that defines the metabolic syndrome, including insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance, and hypertension. Other non‐classic risk factors, such as abnormal oxidized low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, adiponectin, and C‐reactive protein levels, are highly correlated with the metabolic syndrome. Use of the metabolic syndrome criteria for assessment is comparable with other risk‐scoring systems in accurately predicting cardiovascular disease risk and is simpler to implement in the clinic. Further research is needed to define the etiology of the metabolic syndrome.
Relationships among Body Composition Measures in Community‐dwelling Older Women
Authors: Storti Kristi L. , Brach Jennifer S. , FitzGerald Shannon J. , Bunker Clareann H. , Kriska Andrea M.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To examine whether simple anthropometric measures provide a good estimate of total and visceral fat in 146 community‐dwelling, older white women (mean age, 74.0 ± 4.1 years).

Research Methods and Procedures: Total body fat and visceral fat were measured using electron beam computed tomography (EBT). Anthropometric parameters (height, weight, BMI, sagittal diameter, and waist circumference) were measured using standard techniques. Total percentage body fat was assessed using DXA. Spearman correlations were used to examine the association between the measures. Linear regression, controlling for age, was used to examine the associations between the anthropometric parameters and total and visceral body fat measured by EBT.

Results: Correlations among body composition measures ranged from ρ = 0.46 to 0.93 (p < 0.0001). EBT total fat was strongly correlated with both DXA estimates of total percentage fat (ρ = 0.86) and BMI (ρ = 0.89). Separate linear regression models indicated that BMI, waist circumference, sagittal diameter, and DXA total percentage fat were each independently related to EBT total fat. BMI had the strongest linear relationship, explaining 80% of the model variance (p < 0.0001). Linear regression indicated that BMI, waist circumference, and sagittal diameter were each independently related to EBT visceral fat, with BMI and sagittal diameter explaining ∼53% of the model variance (p < 0.0001).

Discussion: The use of simple anthropometric measures such as BMI, sagittal diameter, and waist circumference may be an appropriate alternative for more expensive techniques when assessing total fat but should be used with caution when estimating visceral body fat.
Synaptic Plasticity in Energy Balance Regulation
Authors: Horvath Tamas L.
Published: April 2008

Leptin regulates energy balance, in part, by modulating the activity of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus. Leptin‐deficient (ob/ob) mice differ from wild‐type mice in the number of excitatory and inhibitory post‐synaptic densities and currents onto NPY and POMC neurons. When leptin was delivered to ob/ob mice, the synaptic density rapidly normalized, an effect detectable within 6 hours, several hours before leptin's effect on food intake. Synaptic currents were also shifted toward wild‐type values in leptin‐replaced ob/ob mice. These data suggest that leptin‐mediated plasticity in the ob/ob hypothalamus may underlie some of the hormone's behavioral effects. In an effort to determine whether the observed synaptic plasticity is leptin specific, we analyzed the effects of an orexigenic hormone, ghrelin, and anorexigenic hormone, estradiol. Ghrelin rearranged synapses in wild type animals to support suppressed POMC tone, whereas the estradiol triggered a robust increase in the number of excitatory, glutamate inputs of POMC neurons. The rearrangement of synapses by estradiol was leptin independent, because it was also evident in leptin‐ (ob/ob) and leptin receptor–deficient (db/db) mice and was paralleled with decreased food intake and increased energy expenditure in these mutant, obese animals. Such plasticity was also observed in other hypothalamic regions and extrahypothalamic sites. These observations raise the notion that synaptic plasticity is a major way through which peripheral metabolic hormones influence brain functions.
Gut Peptide Signaling in the Controls of Food Intake
Authors: Moran Timothy H.
Published: April 2008

During a meal and after a meal, ingested nutrients alter the release of a variety of gut peptides that have the potential to modulate food intake. Such feedback peptide signaling can be conceptualized as having three outcomes: meal termination, inhibitory modulation of intake in subsequent meals, and orexigenic modulation. Cholecystokinin, pancreatic glucagons, and amylin are examples of peptides involved in meal termination. They are released rapidly with the onset of feeding and have short durations of action. Peptide YY(3‐36) and glucagon‐like peptide 1 are peptides for which longer‐term feeding inhibitory actions have been proposed. They are released from the distal intestine and have longer durations of actions. Ghrelin is a gastric peptide that stimulates food intake after its exogenous administration. Plasma ghrelin levels fall with feeding and rise with food deprivation. All of these gut peptides have vagal or dorsal hindbrain mediation. Their potential as targets for the development of anti‐obesity treatments is under study.
Leptin Resistance and Obesity
Authors: Enriori Pablo J. , Evans Anne E. , Sinnayah Puspha , Cowley Michael A.
Published: April 2008

The prevalence of obesity, and the human and economic costs of the disease, creates a need for better therapeutics and better understanding of the physiological processes that balance energy intake and energy expenditure. Leptin is the primary signal from energy stores and exerts negative feedback effects on energy intake. In common obesity, leptin loses the ability to inhibit energy intake and increase energy expenditure; this is termed leptin resistance. This review discusses the evidence in support of leptin resistance in mouse models and humans and the possible mechanisms of leptin resistance.
Dietary Linolenic Acid and Fasting Glucose and Insulin: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Heart Study
Authors: Djoussé Luc , Hunt Steven C. , Tang Weihong , Eckfeldt John H. , Province Michael A. , Ellison R. Curtis
Published: April 2008

Objective: To assess whether dietary linolenic acid is associated with fasting insulin and glucose.

Research Methods and Procedures: In a cross‐sectional design, we studied 3993 non‐diabetic participants of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Heart Study 25 to 93 years of age. Linolenic acid was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire, and laboratory data were obtained after at least a 12‐hour fast. We used generalized linear models to calculate adjusted means of insulin and glucose across quartiles of dietary linolenic acid.

Results: From the lowest to the highest sex‐specific quartile of dietary linolenic acid, means ± standard error for logarithmic transformed fasting insulin were 4.06 ± 0.02 (reference), 4.09 ± 0.02, 4.13 ± 0.02, and 4.17 ± 0.02 pM, respectively (trend, p < 0.0001), after adjustment for age, sex, energy intake, waist‐to‐hip ratio, smoking, and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol. When dietary linolenic acid was used as a continuous variable, the multivariable adjusted regression coefficient was 0.42 ± 0.08. There was no association between dietary linolenic acid and fasting glucose (trend p = 0.82).

Discussion: Our data suggest that higher consumption of dietary linolenic acid is associated with higher plasma insulin, but not glucose levels, in non‐diabetic subjects. Additional studies are needed to assess whether higher intake of linolenic acid results in an increased insulin secretion and improved glucose use in vivo.
Direct Effect of Ghrelin on Leptin Production by Cultured Rat White Adipocytes
Authors: Giovambattista Andrés , Piermaría Judith , Suescun María O. , Calandra Ricardo S. , Gaillard Rolf C. , Spinedi Eduardo
Published: April 2008

Objective: Because ghrelin is known to stimulate adipogenesis, we tested whether ghrelin could contribute to the maintenance of homeostasis, directly affecting rat white adipocyte leptin production.

Research Methods and Procedures: Isolated retroperitoneal adipocytes were cultured for 0.5 to 48 hours without (baseline) or with (0.001 to 1 nM) ghrelin alone or in combination with insulin (0.01 to 10 nM) or dexamethasone (1 to 100 nM). Adipocytes were also incubated with ghrelin and inhibitors either of RNA (actinomycin D) or protein synthesis (cycloheximide) or with several concentrations (10 to 1000 nM) of a specific ghrelin antagonist. When cultures were terminated, we evaluated adipocyte leptin secretion and ob mRNA expression.

Results: Our data indicate that ghrelin directly enhanced adipocyte leptin release and ob mRNA expression, that the leptin‐releasing activity of ghrelin was additive to the action of both insulin and dexamethasone and was abrogated by protein synthesis inhibitors, and that effects of ghrelin on adipocyte ob mRNA expression and release were blocked by coincubation with the specific growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a antagonist.

Discussion: Our study supports the ability of ghrelin to enhance white adipose tissue leptin production by a direct receptor‐mediated effect. This activity of ghrelin could play a potentially significant role in rapid restoration of homeostasis after food intake.
Associations among Education, Cortisol Rhythm, and BMI in Blue‐collar Women
Authors: Daniel Mark , Moore D. Spencer , Decker Seamus , Belton Leigh , DeVellis Brenda , Doolen Anne , Campbell Marci K.
Published: April 2008

Objective: This study sought to test whether a biological measure of chronic stress, Δ cortisol, was related to BMI and whether the relationship between Δ cortisol and BMI varied according to education and positive affect.

Research Methods and Procedures: One hundred fifty‐four women from a blue‐collar women's health project in 11 industrial sites in rural North Carolina provided saliva for cortisol assays for a substudy on “stress.” Δ Cortisol, the difference between awakening and midday cortisol measures representing diurnal decline, was calculated (lower values = greater stress). BMI was regressed on Δ cortisol, education, and positive affect. Analyses were controlled for age, race, and worksite. Standardized β‐coefficients were calculated.

Results: For participants with complete data (n = 129), BMI was greater (β 95% confidence interval) for women with less than high school education (0.56; 0.18, 0.94) and those who completed high school (0.26; −0.05, 0.57) relative to women with greater than a high school education (p = 0.009). Δ Cortisol was inversely related to BMI (−0.32; −0.59, −0.05; p = 0.022). Education positively modified the inverse relationship between Δ cortisol and BMI (p = 0.047). Positive affect was negatively associated with BMI (−0.44; −0.82, −0.06; p = 0.026) and positively modified the inverse association between Δ cortisol and BMI (0.33; −0.03, 0.69; p = 0.074).

Discussion: Education and Δ cortisol were inversely related to BMI, and the magnitude of the association between Δ cortisol and BMI was buffered by higher education. Positive affect was inversely related to BMI. Chronic stress is associated with higher BMI, with this relation attenuated by higher education and, possibly, a positive affect.
High Prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome in Iranian Adolescents
Authors: Esmaillzadeh Ahmad , Mirmiran Parvin , Azadbakht Leila , Etemadi Arash , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: April 2008

Objective: No evidence exists regarding the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in adolescents in Middle Eastern countries. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in a representative sample of Iranian adolescents.

Research Methods and Procedures: Anthropometry, biochemical measurements, and blood pressure were assessed in a population‐based cross‐sectional study of 3036 Iranian adolescents (1413 boys and 1623 girls) 10 to 19 years of age. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to modified Adult Treatment Panel III definition. Overweight (≥95th percentile) and at risk for overweight (≥85th to <95th percentile) was defined based on the standardized percentile curves of BMI suggested for Iranian adolescents.

Results: The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was 10.1% (95% confidence interval: 9.0 to 11.1) among Iranian adolescents (boys: 10.3%, 8.6 to 11.8; girls: 9.9%, 8.4 to 11.3). Overall, low serum high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and high serum triglycerides were the most common components of the metabolic syndrome (42.8% and 37.5%, respectively). Overweight subjects had the highest proportion of metabolic syndrome compared with those at risk for overweight and those with normal weight (boys: 41.1% vs. 11.4% and 3.0%, respectively, p < 0.01; girls: 43% vs. 15.2% and 5.0%, respectively, p < 0.01).

Discussion: This study provides evidence showing a high prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in Iranian adolescents, particularly among overweight adolescents.
Molecular Mechanisms of Apoptosis Induced by Ajoene in 3T3‐L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Yang Jeong‐Yeh , Della‐Fera Mary Anne , Nelson‐Dooley Cass , Baile Clifton A.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Determine the biochemical pathways involved in induction of apoptosis by ajoene, an organosulfur compound from garlic.

Research Methods and Procedures: Mature 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were incubated with ajoene at concentrations up to 200 μM. Viability and apoptosis were quantified using an MTS‐based cell viability assay and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA), respectively. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was measured based on production of the fluorescent dye, dichlorofluorescein. Activation of the mitogen‐activated protein kinases extracellular signal‐regulating kinase 1/2 (ERK) and c‐Jun‐N‐terminal kinase (JNK) was shown by Western blot. Western blot was also used to show activation of caspase‐3, translocation of apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF) from mitochondria to nucleus, and cleavage of 116‐kDa poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP)‐1.

Results: Ajoene induced apoptosis of 3T3‐L1 adipocytes in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Ajoene treatment resulted in activation of JNK and ERK, translocation of AIF from mitochondria to nucleus, and cleavage of 116‐kDa PARP‐1 in a caspase‐independent manner. Ajoene treatment also induced an increase in intracellular ROS level. Furthermore, the antioxidant N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine effectively blocked ajoene‐mediated ROS generation, activation of JNK and ERK, translocation of AIF, and degradation of PARP‐1.

Discussion: These results indicate that ajoene‐induced apoptosis in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes is initiated by the generation of hydrogen peroxide, which leads to activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases, degradation of PARP‐1, translocation of AIF, and fragmentation of DNA. Ajoene can, thus, influence the regulation of fat cell number through the induction of apoptosis and may be a new therapeutic agent for the treatment of obesity.
Comparison of Body Composition Methods in Obese African‐American Women
Authors: Newton Robert L. , Alfonso Anthony , York‐Crowe Emily , Walden Heather , White Marney A. , Ryan Donna , Williamson Donald A.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To compare the accuracy of percentage body fat (%BF) estimates between bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and DXA in obese African‐American women.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fifty‐five obese African‐American women (mean age, 45 years; mean BMI, 38; mean %BF, 48%) were studied. BF was assessed by both BIA (RJL Systems BIA 101Q; RJL Systems, Clinton Township, MI) and DXA (Hologic QDR‐2000 Bone Densitometer; Hologic Inc., Bedford, MA). Generalized and ethnicity‐ and obese‐specific equations were used to calculate %BF from the BIA. Bland‐Altman analyses were used to compare the agreement between the BIA and the DXA, with the DXA serving as the criterion measure.

Results: Two of the generalized equations provided consistent estimates across the weight range in comparison with the DXA estimates, whereas most of the other equations increasingly underestimated %BF as BF increased. One of the generalized and one of the ethnicity‐specific equations had mean differences that were not significantly different from the DXA value.

Discussion: The findings show that the Lukaski equation provided the most precise and accurate estimates of %BF in comparison with the QDR 2000 and provide preliminary support for the use of this equation for obese African‐American women.
The Effects of Goami No. 2 Rice, a Natural Fiber‐Rich Rice, on Body Weight and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Lee K.W. , Song K.E. , Lee H.S. , Kim Y.K. , Lee S.W. , Kim D.J. , Hwang W.S. , Choe S.J. , Kim Y.S. , Kim T.Y.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Increased intake of dietary fiber reduces the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. We assessed the effects of a fiber‐rich diet on body weight, adipokine concentrations, and the metabolism of glucose and lipids in non‐obese and obese subjects in Korea, where rice is the main source of dietary carbohydrates.

Research Methods and Procedures: Eleven healthy, non‐obese and 10 obese subjects completed two 4‐week phases of individual isoenergetic food intake. During the control diet phase, subjects consumed standard rice; during the modified diet phase, subjects consumed equal proportions of fiber‐rich Goami No. 2 rice and standard rice. We used a randomized, controlled, crossover study design with a washout period of 6 weeks between the two phases.

Results: After the modified diet phase, body weight was significantly lower in both the non‐obese and obese subjects (non‐obese, 57.0 ± 2.9 vs. 56.1 ± 2.8 kg, p = 0.001; obese, 67.7 ± 2.1 vs. 65.7 ± 2.0 kg, p < 0.001 for before vs. after). The BMI was significantly lower in obese subjects (26.9 ± 0.5 vs. 26.0 ± 0.6 kg/m2, p < 0.001). The modified diet was associated with lower serum triacylglycerol (p < 0.01), total cholesterol (p < 0.01), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.05), and C‐peptide (p < 0.05) concentrations in the obese subjects.

Discussion: These results indicate that fiber‐rich Goami No. 2 rice has beneficial effects and may be therapeutically useful for obese subjects.
Influence of Parents’ Eating Behaviors and Child Feeding Practices on Children's Weight Status
Authors: Johannsen Darcy L. , Johannsen Neil M. , Specker Bonny L.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To investigate the effects of mothers’ and fathers’ eating behaviors, child feeding practices, and BMI on percentage body fat and BMI in their children.

Research Methods and Procedures: Four hundred fifty‐eight parents (239 mothers, 219 fathers) were asked to complete two questionnaires: the Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire and the Child Feeding Questionnaire, which measure dimensions of parent eating behavior and child feeding practices, respectively. Parent BMI was calculated from self‐reported height and weight; children's measures included BMI and percentage fat assessed by DXA. Regression analyses were used to analyze relationships between parents’ BMI and questionnaire scores and children's weight status.

Results: One hundred forty‐three mothers and 68 fathers returned questionnaires, representing parents of 148 children 3 to 5 years old (78 boys). Children's weight was related to mothers’ BMI, but not fathers’. Girls had a greater BMI if either parent reported being overweight as a child, and both girls and boys were likely to be overweight if their mothers believed they had risky eating habits (fussiness, eating too much, etc.). Girls with fathers who were more controlling had a higher percentage fat; these fathers were also more concerned about their daughters’ future health.

Discussion: Mothers exert a strong influence over their children's weight and seem to be more concerned about their children's eating behaviors; however, fathers play a role in imposing child feeding practices. Gender bias may be present in child feeding, as suggested by dissimilar effects of parent practices on the weight status of girls vs. boys. Fathers should be included in future studies analyzing parent feeding practices and children's weight outcome.
Psychological Workload and Weight Gain Among Women with and without Familial Obesity
Authors: Overgaard Dorthe , Gamborg Michael , Gyntelberg Finn , Heitmann Berit L.
Published: April 2008

Objective: High job demands and low job influence may be associated with subsequent weight gain. Predisposition to obesity may further modify such associations. The purpose of the study was to determine whether familial predisposition to obesity modified associations between psychological workload and 6‐year weight changes among nurses.

Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 6404 Danish nurses 45 to 65 years old, who belonged to the workforce in both 1993 and 1999, answered a questionnaire on psychological workload, body weight, and familial obesity. Women were considered to be predisposed to obesity if they were overweight and had at least one obese parent. Parents’ body shape was reported using pictograms.

Results: An increased psychological workload, reflected by high job demands and low influence in job, was associated with an increased body weight. This was particularly the case for nurses being predisposed to obesity, suggesting a synergy between familial obesity predisposition and the psychological workload environment. An interaction test among job demands, familial predisposition to obesity, and weight gain on adjusted data was made. The test showed p = 0.05. The adjusted interaction test among influence in job, familial predisposition to obesity, and weight gain showed p = 0.02.

Predisposed nurses who were busy in their job gained 4.4 kg, whereas other nurses gained only 3.2 kg during the 6 years. Similarly, nurses predisposed to obesity with low influence in job had a higher body weight gain (5.4 vs. 3.2 kg) compared with other nurses.

Discussion: High psychological workload due to high job demands and low influence in job seems to predict weight gain in general and, in particular, among those nurses with a familial predisposition to obesity.
Lifestyle Variables, Non‐traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and the Metabolic Syndrome in an Aboriginal Canadian Population
Authors: Liu Juan , Young T. Kue , Zinman Bernard , Harris Stewart B. , Connelly Philip W. , Hanley Anthony J.G.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To examine lifestyle factors associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to explore the relationships between MetS and non‐traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors [adiponectin, leptin, C‐reactive protein (CRP), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and serum amyloid A (SAA)] in an isolated Aboriginal Canadian community.

Research Methods and Procedures: Data were obtained from 360 non‐diabetic adults participating in a population‐based study of Aboriginal Canadians. Fasting samples were drawn for glucose, insulin, lipids, adiponectin, leptin, CRP, IL‐6, and SAA. Percentage body fat was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Past year physical activity and fitness level were assessed. MetS was diagnosed according to the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program, the World Health Organization, and the International Diabetes Federation.

Results: The results showed that older age, higher percentage body fat, and lower fitness levels were associated with increased odds of MetS regardless of MetS definition and subject gender. Past year physical activity was independently related with the World Health Organization‐MetS in male subjects. Subjects with MetS had significantly higher leptin, CRP, IL‐6, and SAA levels and lower adiponectin levels; however, only adiponectin remained significantly low after adjustment for age and percentage body fat.

Discussion: The study showed that higher percentage body fat and lower physical activity and fitness were associated with a higher prevalence of MetS in this Aboriginal community and that hypoadiponectinemia was independently associated with MetS.
Obesity Is a Risk Factor for Reporting Homebound Status among Community‐Dwelling Older Persons
Authors: Jensen Gordon L. , Silver Heidi J. , Roy Marie‐Andree , Callahan Eve , Still Christopher , Dupont William
Published: April 2008

Objective: To test the a priori hypothesis that obesity is a predictor of risk for reporting homebound status.

Research Methods and Procedures: A longitudinal cohort study was conducted with 21, 645 community‐dwelling men and women 65 to 97 years old. A nutrition risk screen was administered baseline between 1994 and 1999 and again 3 to 4 years later. Univariate analyses identified baseline variables associated with subsequent reporting of homebound status. Multivariable logistic regression models were created to identify baseline variables that were significant independent predictors of reporting homebound status.

Results: At baseline, 24% of the cohort had BMI ≥ 30. There were 12, 834 (45% men) respondents at follow‐up (68% response). Non‐responders at follow‐up differed little from responders except for greater baseline age (72.2 ± 6.2 vs. 71.4 ± 5.6 years, p < 0.001) and reporting of any functional limitations (9.2% vs. 4.9%, p < 0.001). At follow‐up, those who reported homebound status (n = 169) were significantly (p < 0.001) older (80.3 ± 7.3 vs. 75.1 ± 5.5 years) and more likely to report functional limitations (83.4% vs. 10.8%). Univariate analyses identified 16 baseline variables that were eliminated stepwise until five significant independent predictors remained: age ≥ 75 years (2.21, 1.55 to 3.15/odds ratio, 95% confidence interval), BMI ≥ 35 (1.75, 1.04 to 2.96), poor appetite (2.50, 1.29 to 4.86), low income (1.59, 1.00 to 2.56), and any functional limitation (10.67, 7.36 to 15.46).

Discussion: Obesity remained a significant independent predictor for reporting homebound status and should be considered in screening of older populations and in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of services for homebound older persons.
Neighborhood Safety, Collective Efficacy, and Obesity in Women with Young Children
Authors: Burdette Hillary L. , Wadden Thomas A. , Whitaker Robert C.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To test the hypothesis that mothers of young children would have a higher prevalence of obesity if they lived in neighborhoods that they perceived as unsafe or as having a low level of collective efficacy.

Research Methods and Procedures: Using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, a cross‐sectional analysis was conducted of 2445 women living in 20 large (population ≥ 200, 000) U.S. cities. BMI was measured on 72% and self‐reported on 28%. Perception of neighborhood safety was assessed with the Neighborhood Environment for Children Rating Scales. The collective efficacy measure was adapted from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods.

Results: Thirty percent of the women were married, 38% lived below the U.S. poverty threshold, and 66% reported no education beyond high school. Approximately one‐half of the women were non‐Hispanic black, and one‐fourth were Hispanic (any race). After adjustment for sociodemographic factors (household income, education, race/ethnicity, age, and marital status), smoking, depression, and television time, the prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) increased across tertiles of neighborhood safety from safest to least safe (37% vs. 41% vs. 46%, p = 0.004) but did not differ across tertiles of collective efficacy from highest to lowest (41% vs. 40% vs. 42%, p = 0.67).

Discussion: In a national sample of women with young children, obesity was more prevalent among those who perceived their neighborhoods to be unsafe.
Lack of Association of Glutamate Decarboxylase 2 Gene Polymorphisms with Severe Obesity in Utah
Authors: Hunt Steven C. , Xin Yuanpei , Wu Lily L. , Hopkins Paul N. , Adams Ted D.
Published: April 2008

Three polymorphisms of the glutamate decarboxylase 2 gene, which encodes the glutamic acid decarboxylase enzyme, have been associated with severe obesity in a large French cohort. One of these polymorphisms was shown to have functional consequences on promoter expression. Another polymorphism was associated with insulin levels and secretion. These associations were examined in 855 severely obese Utah subjects (mean BMI = 48 kg/m2) and a normal‐weight and normoglycemic subset (N = 130, mean BMI = 22 kg/m2) of a random sample of the Utah population (N = 462). Comparisons of the normal‐weight random group with the severely obese group did not result in significant genotype or allele frequency differences for any of the three polymorphisms, C61450A, T83897A, or A‐243G (all p ≥ 0.18). Haplotypes were also not related to severe obesity (p = 0.10). None of the polymorphisms was significantly related to fasting glucose, insulin levels, or homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance or secretion indices. This study of normal‐weight and severely obese subjects from Utah does not provide evidence for involvement of the three genotyped polymorphisms in the glutamate decarboxylase 2 gene with obesity or with insulin‐ and glucose‐related measures associated with obesity.
Peptide YY and Proglucagon mRNA Expression Patterns and Regulation in the Gut
Authors: Zhou Jun , Hegsted Maren , McCutcheon Kathleen L. , Keenan Michael J. , Xi Xiaochun , Raggio Anne M. , Martin Roy J.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Peptide YY (PYY) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 are important in the control of energy homeostasis and are both secreted from the gut in response to ingested nutrients. However, more studies are needed on nutrient regulation of their gene expression patterns in specific areas of the gut. This study detailed PYY and proglucagon (the gene that encodes glucagon‐like peptide‐1) gene expression patterns and regulation in the gut. We further examined the regulation of PYY and proglucagon mRNA by a diet containing fermentation‐resistant starch (in vivo) and butyrate (in vitro).

Research Methods and Procedures: Quantitative real time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction was used to measure PYY and proglucagon gene expression in epithelial cells collected from the duodenum, jejunum, cecum, and colon in normal Sprague‐Dawley rats and in rats fed a resistant starch diet for 4 weeks. The same measurements were also performed in primary epithelial cells collected from the cecum and colon of normal rats after the cells were incubated with butyrate for 3 hours.

Results: The gene expression patterns for PYY and proglucagon are similar to their peptide distribution patterns in the gut. Also, PYY and proglucagon mRNA expression were up‐regulated in the cecum and colon in resistant‐starch—fed rats. Butyrate increased PYY and proglucagon gene expression in a dose‐dependent manner in vitro.

Discussion: Our data provide evidence that the distal part of the gut has the ability to sense nutrients such as butyrate, resulting in the up‐regulation of PYY and proglucagon gene expression.
Trends and Dietary Determinants of Overweight and Obesity in a Multiethnic Population
Authors: Maskarinec Gertraud , Takata Yumie , Pagano Ian , Carlin Linda , Goodman Marc T. , Le Marchand Loïc , Nomura Abraham M. Y. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Kolonel Laurence N.
Published: April 2008

Objectives: To describe trends in BMI among different ethnic groups in Hawaii and to explore the relation of nutrient and food intake with excess weight.

Research Methods and Procedures: We pooled demographic, anthropometric, and nutritional data derived from a detailed diet history for 159, 683 participants of 18 population‐based epidemiological studies conducted in Hawaii over a 25‐year period. The age‐adjusted prevalence of excess weight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) was estimated for 5‐year intervals. To explore dietary determinants of excess weight, we computed odds ratios using logistic regression.

Results: During the study period, the prevalence of excess weight increased considerably among all ethnic groups. Native Hawaiians had the highest and Asian Americans had the lowest prevalence of excess weight at all times. Although the percentage of calories consumed from carbohydrates increased, the percentage of calories from fat decreased over time. On an individual level, fat and protein consumption predicted a higher BMI, and dietary fiber intake predicted a lower BMI. Similarly, a higher consumption of meat, poultry, and fish was related to excess weight, whereas fruit and vegetable intake were inversely associated with excess weight. After stratification by ethnicity, the associations were not materially altered among women, but carbohydrates seemed to have a stronger association with excess weight among Native Hawaiian and Japanese men than among white men.

Discussion: In this large ethnically diverse population, plant‐based foods and dietary fiber emerged as a potential protective factor against excess weight regardless of ethnicity.
PAI‐1 Gene 4G/5G Polymorphism and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in a Population‐based Sample
Authors: Meigs James B. , Dupuis Josée , Liu Chunyu , O'Donnell Christopher J. , Fox Caroline S. , Kathiresan Sekar , Gabriel Stacey B. , Larson Martin G. , Yang Qiong , Herbert Alan G. , Wilson Peter W. F. , Feng DaLi , Tofler Geoffrey H. , Cupples L. Adrienne
Published: April 2008

Elevated plasma levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) increase risk for type 2 diabetes. The PAI‐1 4G/5G polymorphism is a major genetic determinant of plasma PAI‐1 levels, with 4G/4G homozygotes having elevated PAI‐1 levels relative to 5G allele carriers. These observations suggest the hypothesis that the PAI‐1 4G/5G polymorphism could be a genetic risk factor for diabetes. We tested this hypothesis among 2169 participants of the Framingham Offspring Study followed for seven examinations over 26 years for 216 cases of type 2 diabetes. PAI‐1 4G/4G homozygotes (genotype frequency, 27.4%) were not at significantly (p > 0.05) increased risk of incident diabetes compared with 5G allele carriers and did not have elevated levels of diabetes‐related quantitative traits including BMI, fasting plasma glucose, or fasting insulin. In proportional hazards regression models accounting for correlation among siblings, with the 5G/5G genotype as the referent, the hazard ratio for incident diabetes for 4G/5G carriers was 0.93 (95% confidence interval, 0.68 to 1.28) and for 4G/4G carriers was 1.20 (95% confidence interval, 0.83 to 1.92). Results were not altered by further adjustment for sex or levels of BMI, triglycerides, or PAI‐1. We conclude that the PAI‐1 4G/5G polymorphism is not an important genetic risk factor for type 2 diabetes in this community‐based sample. Elevated PAI‐1 levels may be associated with an increased risk for diabetes as a marker for underlying endothelial dysfunction rather than by a direct effect of genetically mediated elevated levels.
Electrophysiological Characterization of Left Ventricular Myocytes from Obese Sprague‐Dawley Rat
Authors: Ricci Estelle , Smallwood Sébastien , Chouabe Christophe , Mertani Hichem C. , Raccurt Mireille , Morel Gérard , Bonvallet Robert
Published: April 2008

Objective: Obesity is a complex multifactorial disease that is often associated with cardiac arrhythmias. Various animal models have been used extensively to study the effects of obesity on physiological functions, but, to our knowledge, no study related to ionic membrane currents has been performed on isolated cardiac myocytes. Therefore, we examined the electrophysiological characteristics of four ionic currents from isolated left ventricular myocytes of a high‐energy (HE)‐induced obesity rat model.

Research Methods and Procedures: Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were fed with either a control diet or a diet containing 33% kcal as fat (HE) for 14 weeks starting at 6 weeks of age. Voltage‐clamp experiments were performed on ventricular myocytes. Leptin receptor (ObR) expression was measured using ObR enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: In the HE group, rats designated as obese did not develop a cardiac hypertrophy, either at the organ level or at the cellular level. Densities and kinetics of the L‐type calcium current, the transient outward potassium current, the delayed rectifier potassium current, and the sodium‐calcium exchange current (INCX) were not significantly different between control and obese rats. A down‐regulation of ObR expression was evidenced in the heart of obese rats compared with controls. Acute exposure (5 minutes) of leptin (100 nM) did not induce a significant modification in the current densities either in control or in obese rats, except for INCX density measured in control rats.

Discussion: The absence of effect of leptin on INCX in obese rats could be a potential arrhythmogenic substrate in obesity.
11β‐Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 mRNA is Increased in Both Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue of Obese Patients
Authors: Desbriere Raoul , Vuaroqueaux Vincent , Achard Vincent , Boullu‐Ciocca Sandrine , Labuhn Martin , Dutour Anne , Grino Michel
Published: April 2008

Objective: Data from rodents provide evidence for a causal role of 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β‐HSD‐1) in the development of obesity and its complications. In humans, 11β‐HSD‐1 is increased in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of obese patients, and higher adipose 11β‐HSD‐1 was associated with features of the metabolic syndrome. To date, there is no evidence for an increased expression of 11β‐HSD‐1 in human visceral adipose tissue (VAT), although VAT is the major predictor for insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome.

Research Methods and Procedures: 11β‐HSD‐1 and hexose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, the cofactor required for 11β‐HSD‐1 oxoreductase activity) mRNA levels were measured using real‐time quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction in abdominal SAT and VAT biopsies obtained from 10 normal‐weight and 12 obese women. Adiponectin mRNA was used as an internal control.

Results: 11β‐HSD‐1 mRNA concentrations were significantly increased in both SAT and VAT of obese patients (720% and 450% of controls, respectively; p < 0.05) and correlated with hexose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase mRNA levels. The level of VAT 11β‐HSD‐1 mRNA correlated with anthropometric parameters: BMI (r = 0.41, p = 0.05), waist circumference (r = 0.44, p = 0.04), abdominal sagittal diameter (r = 0.51, p = 0.02), and percentage fat (r = 0.51, p = 0.02).

Discussion: Our results demonstrate for the first time that 11β‐HSD‐1 mRNA expression is increased in VAT from obese patients. They strengthen the importance of 11β‐HSD‐1 in human obesity and its associated complications and suggest the need of clinical studies with specific 11β‐HSD‐1 inhibitors.