bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropeptide Y Stimulates Feeding but Inhibits Sexual Behavior in Rats*
Authors: Clark John T. , Kalra Pushpa S. , Kalra Satya P.
Published: September 2012

The effects of neuropeptide Y (NPY), a tyrosine‐rich peptide found in the rat brain, on feeding and sexual behavior were studied in male and female rats. Intraventricular (ivt) injections of NPY during the final hours of the light period induced feeding in a dose‐related manner. While the lowest dose tested (0.02 nM) was without effect, higher doses (0.12, 0.47, 2.3 nM) uniformly elicited feeding with a latency of about 15 min in male rats. With the most effective dose, 0.47 nM, the increased food intake was due to an increased local eating rate. In contrast, the pattern of feeding behavior after a related peptide, rat pancreatic polypeptide (rPP), was quite different and less impressive. During the first hour, only one ivt dose of rPP (0.45 nM) evoked an increase in food intake, due to an increased time spent eating. Further, the effects of NPY on food intake were greater during the nocturnal period. Interestingly, increased food intake in nocturnal tests (4 h) was due solely to augmented intake during the first 60 min after ivt administration.

In mating tests, initiated 2 h after the onset of darkness and 10 min after ivt administration of peptide, all but the lowest dose of NPY (0.01 nM) drastically suppressed ejaculatory behavior. Most rats treated with higher doses of NPY (0.02, 0.12, or 0.47 nM) mounted and intromitted only a few times before the cessation of sexual activity, and elongated latencies to the initial mount and intromission were observed. In contrast to the dramatic NPY‐induced suppression of ejaculatory behavior, rPP (0.11 and 0.45 nM) was without effect on copulatory behavior. To substantiate further that the impairment of sexual behavior seen in NPY‐treated rats was not due to an attenuated sexual ability, an additional experiment was performed. Penile reflexes, including erection, were monitored 10 min after ivt injection of NPY (0.12 nM), rPP (0.11 nM), or saline. No effect of NPY or rPP was observed on the proportion of rats showing erection or latency to initial erection, or in the number of erections per test. In fact, a slight facilitation of penile dorsiflexion responses was seen after NPY. These findings suggest that NPY selectively depresses sexual motivation in the male rat.

In ovariectomized female rats responding to estrogen plus progesterone with a good level of sexual receptivity (lordosis quotient > 70), ivt saline and 0.01 nM NPY were without effect on sexual behavior. However, higher doses of NPY (0.12 and 0.47 nM) promptly suppressed sexual behavior in tests initiated 10 min after treatment. A significant 50% decrement in receptivity and a virtual elimination of proceptive behavior were observed. Further, although a low level of mounting (one to five mounts in 15 min) was seen in both the saline (33% mounting) and the 0.01 nM NPY (38% mounting) treated groups, none was observed in animals treated with the higher NPY doses. These observations indicate that NPY may also suppress female sexual behavior.
Sagittal Diameter Minus Subcutaneous Thickness. An Easy‐to‐Obtain Parameter That Improves Visceral Fat Prediction
Authors: Armellini Fabio , Zamboni Mauro , Harris Tamara , Micciolo Rocco , Bosello Ottavio
Published: September 2012

ARMELLINI FABIO, MAURO ZAMBONI, TAMARA HARRIS, ROCCO MICCIOLO, OTTAVIO BOSELLO. Sagittal diameter minus subcutaneous thickness. An easy‐to‐obtain parameter that improves visceral fat prediction.

Two groups of 99 and 98 women were studied to test if correcting sagittal diameter by subtracting the thickness of subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue improves its degree of association with visceral adipose tissue. The first group (age, 40 ± 14 years; body mass index [BMI], 36 ± 6 kg/m2) was used to calculate the predictive equations for visceral adipose tissue. The second group (age, 43 ± 14 years; BMI, 37 ± 6 kg/m2) was used for cross‐validation. Various anthropometric parameters were measured by ultrasound and computed tomography. Correlation coefficients with single‐slice visceral adipose tissue area, after sagittal diameter was corrected by subtracting subcutaneous thickness, rose from 0.63 to 0.72 in the first group and from 0.64 to 0.71 in the second group. The standard error of residuals of the regression formula for visceral adipose tissue area was 10% lower with modified sagittal diameter than with sagittal diameter alone. During cross‐validation, the standard error of differences was 5% lower with modified sagittal diameter. The visceral adipose tissue estimate was also less biased by the size of the area when sagittal diameter minus subcutaneous thickness was used. Results show that subtracting the thickness of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue from sagittal diameter significantly improves the predictive power of sagittal diameter for visceral adipose tissue and could be a useful tool for epidemiological studies.
Resting Metabolic Rate in African‐American and Caucasian Girls
Authors: Yanovski Susan Zelitch , Reynolds James C. , Boyle Allison J. , Yanovskif Jack A.
Published: September 2012

YANOVSKI, SUSAN ZELITCH, JAMES C REYNOLDS, ALLISON J BOYLE, JACK A YANOVSKI. Resting metabolic rate in African‐American and Caucasian girls.

Recent studies have found a lower resting metabolic rate (RMR) in African‐American (AA) women with obesity as compared with Caucasian (C) women with obesity. It is unknown if this difference in RMR is seen in prepubertal girls or in those of average body weight. Therefore, we studied RMR in 21 AA and 24 C girls, ages 7–10, who were well matched for age, weight, body mass index (BMI), and pubertal status. All had BMI between 15% and 85% for age and race, based on data from the First National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Fat free mass (FFM) was measured by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. RMR was measured with a Deltatrac indirect calorimeter under controlled conditions after the subjects underwent an overnight fast. The slopes of the regression equations were similar for both groups (ρ=0.7). After adjustment for FEM, the AA girls had a significantly lower RMR than did the C girls (−92 ± 32 kcal/d, ρ=0.007 by analysis of covariance). This significance was maintained after exclusion of total body bone mineral content. These data suggest that normal‐weight prepubertal AA girls may have reduced resting energy expenditure compared with C girls.
Effects of Visceral Fat and Weight Loss on Lipoprotein(a) Concentration in Subjects with Obesity
Authors: Zamboni M. , Facchinetti R. , Armellini F. , Turcato E. , Andreis I.A. Bergamo , Bosello O.
Published: September 2012

ZAMBONI M, R FACCHINETTI, F ARMELLINI, E TURCATO, IA BERGAMO ANDREIS, O BOSELLO. Effects of visceral fat and weight loss on lipoprotein(a) concentration in subjects with obesity.

We studied the relationships between regional body fat distribution and metabolic variables with lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] as well as the effects of weight loss on Lp(a) in 25 women and 9 men with obesity. Regional body fat distribution, as evaluated by the use of computed tomography; Lp(a); and fasting glucose, insulin, cholesterol, and triglycerides were analyzed before and after a very low‐energy diet. No significant correlations were found between visceral, subcutaneous, and total fat and Lp(a) or between metabolic variables and Lp(a). All anthropometric variables significantly decreased after a very low‐energy diet. Fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and cholesterol significantly decreased after a very low‐energy diet. No significant changes in Lp(a) concentration after a very low‐energy diet were found. The correlation between the initial values of Lp(a) and changes of Lp(a) after a very low‐energy diet was slightly significant (ρ=0.33, p<0.06). In conclusion, our study shows that Lp(a) is not influenced by obesity, visceral fat, metabolic variables, or weight loss induced by a very low‐energy diet
Management of Obesity in Primary Care
Authors: Simkin‐Silverman Laurey R. , Wing Rena R.
Published: September 2012

SIMKIN‐SILVERMAN, LAUREY R, RENA R WING. Management of obesity in primary care.

Obesity is one of the most common presenting chronic medical conditions in primary care, yet it is not adequately treated. Physicians are often reluctant to counsel patients because of their limited training in treating chronic weight problems and negative attitudes toward obese patients. This study evaluated the feasibility of training physicians to provide weight control counseling to their patients. Eleven physicians were randomly assigned to either an obesity‐counseling skills training group or to a control group. Physicians in the counseling skills group received training in behavioral and motivational weight control techniques using a five‐step patient‐centered model; they were also given patient materials for use in their practice. To evaluate pretraining to posttraining changes in physician counseling behavior, independent samples of patients with obesity were surveyed immediately after their visit to the physician's office. Physicians in both the counseling skills training and the control groups discussed weight with 42% to 47% of their patients at baseline. This increased to 89% in physicians who received training, whereas it remained at 42% in control physicians. Scores on a counseling measure also significantly increased from a mean of 2. 7 to 9. 9 in the counseling group, whereas scores in the control group remained low and stable (2. 3 and 1. 9, respectively). The training program was effective in improving the frequency and quality of counseling that physicians delivered to their patients with obesity. Future research is needed to evaluate the effect of physician counseling on the weight and physical activity level of their patients.
Do Children Eat What They Say? Validity of Intended Food Choices Among Native American School Children
Authors: Toporoff Elanah G. , French Simone A. , Story Mary , Himes John H. , Snyder M. Patricia , DuBray Maxine , Rock Bonnie Holy , Hunsberger Sally
Published: September 2012

Objective. To examine the agreement between school children's intended food choices and observed food choices.

Design. Native American students in the second through fifth grade completed a questionnaire that asked them to select from 10 paired food choices for a given meal or snack. Three weeks later students chose among foods identical to those on the questionnaire as part of their usual school lunch or breakfast over three consecutive days; afternoon snacks were also offered.

Results. Agreement between students' intended food choices and observed food choices was examined across 10 food pairs. The composite K coefficient between intended and observed food choices was 0.09 (95% confidence interval 0.06, 0.12), indicating virtually no agreement above that expected by chance. There were no differences in agreement by sex or grade.

Conclusions. Intended food choices were not significantly associated with observed food choices. It is unclear whether intended food choices reflect nutrition knowledge, socially desirable responses, food preferences, or some other dimension of eating behavior. Although responsive to school‐based nutrition interventions, the interpretation of changes in intended food choices must be clarified in future research.
The Rat Corpulent (cp) Mutation Maps to the Same Interval on (Pgm1‐Glut1) Rat Chromosome 5 as the Fatty (fa) Mutation
Authors: Kahle E. Bowie , Butz Kenneth G. , Chua Streamson C. , Kershaw Erin E. , Leibel Rudolph L. , Fenger Terry W. , Hansen Carl T. , Michaelis Otho E.
Published: September 2012

The autosomal recessive obesity mutations fatty (fa) and corpulent (cp) arose in separate rat strains, 13M and Koletsky, respectively. By complementation analysis, the two mutations appear to be in the same gene. The somewhat different phenotypes of fa/fa and cp/cp animals probably reflect the fact that the mutations are segregating on different rat strains. The fa mutation has been mapped to the interval between Pgm1 and Glut1 on rat Chr 5, but cp has not been mapped genetically. We mapped cp in 30 obese progeny of a LA/N‐BN cp/+ intercross using microsatellite markers for these flanking genes. Cp maps to the same genetic interval as rat fa and mouse db. Cp is flanked by Glut1 and Pgm1:

Pgm1——–cp——–Glut1

map distance (cM) 1.67 6.67

Thus, cp and fa map to the same ∼8 cM interval of the rat genome. In conjunction with the complementation studies alluded to above, these findings indicate that cp and fa are mutations in the same gene (Lepr).
Racial/Ethnic and Gender Differences in Concern with Weight and in Bulimic Behaviors Among Adolescents
Authors: Field Alison E. , Colditz Graham A. , Peterson Karen E.
Published: September 2012

FIELD, ALISON E, GRAHAM A COLDITZ, KAREN E PETERSON. Racial/ethnic and gender differences in concern with weight and in bulimic behaviors among adolescents.

This study examined cross‐sectional gender and racial/ethnic differences in bulimic behaviors among adolescents. Subjects were 704 male and 621 female students at a large urban public high school in the Northeast. Approximately 61% of the girls and 43% of the boys reported trying to lose weight or maintain their current weight; 2.0% of the students reported using laxatives or vomiting to control their weight. The use of these behaviors to control weight was only slightly more common among girls than boys (2.7% vs. 1.4%,p=0.1). Although more black than white girls used laxatives or vomiting to control weight (odds ratio [OR]=11.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5–95.3), there were no racial/ethnic differences in these behaviors among boys. However, Hispanic boys were twice as likely as white boys to binge eat at least monthly (OR=2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.6). Our results suggest that bulimic behaviors affect male and female adolescents from a variety of racial/ethnic backgrounds. In addition, in contrast to the large gender differences in the prevalence of dieting and binge eating, more modest differences were documented in the prevalence of using vomiting and laxatives to control weight.
Psychological Effects of Weight Cycling in Obese Persons: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Foster Gary D. , Sarwer David B. , Wadden Thomas A.
Published: September 2012

FOSTER, GARY D, DAVID B SARWER, THOMAS A WADDEN. Psychological effects of weight cycling in obese persons: A review and research agenda.

This review summarizes studies on the psychological effects of weight cycling (i.e., weight loss and regain) in obese persons and proposes an agenda for future research on this topic. Among general psychological constructs, the current literature suggests that weight cycling is not associated with depression, other psychopathology, or depressogenic cognitive styles. Weight cycling is associated with decreased perceptions of health and well‐being, although the clinical significance of this relationship is uncertain. Among weight‐ and eating‐related constructs, weight cycling does not appear to be related to restraint, hunger, or personality traits associated with eating disorders. Weight cycling, however, does appear to be associated with clinically significant reductions in eating self‐efficacy and weak but consistent increases in binge eating severity. Definitive conclusions about the presence or absence of the psychological consequences of weight cycling are premature, given the small number of studies, as well as a variety of methodological and interpretive concerns. A new generation of research is necessary to determine the extent and nature of the psychological sequelae of weight cycling.
Obesity, Social Class, and Mental Illness
Authors: Moore Mary E. , Stunkard Albert , Philadelphia  , Srole Leo , Brooklyn
Published: September 2012

The relationship between obesity and mental health was investigated, using data obtained from 1,660 persons selected as representative of 110,000 inhabitants of a residential area of New York City. In addition to confirming the previously noted relationship between obesity and age, preliminary analysis revealed a striking relationship between obesity and socioeconomic status of origin. The prevalence of obesity was 7 times higher among women reared in the lowest social class category as compared with those reared in the highest category. Scores made by the obese respondents on 9 mental health indices were compared with scores made by individuals of average weight. The obese respondents made more pathological scores on 8 of the 9 measures and on 3 of these the difference was statistically significant (“immaturity,” “rigidity,” and “suspiciousness”).
Original Articles Sibutramine Reduces Food Intake in Non‐Dieting Women with Obesity
Authors: Rolls Barbara J. , Shide David J. , Thorwart Michelle L. , Ulbrecht Jan S.
Published: September 2012

Sibutramine (SIB), an inhibitor of serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake, has been shown in clinical trials to be associated with a dose‐related decrease in bodyweight. This double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, Latin square crossover study examined whether the effect on bodyweight could be due in part to a reduction in daily food intake. Twelve non‐dieting, women with obesity (body mass index of 30.5 to 41.9) received three treatments (0 [matching placebo], 10, or 30 mg SIB/day) for 14 days, with 14‐day washout periods in between. On days 7 and 14, participants came to the laboratory to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner so that daily energy and macronutrient intakes and ratings of hunger and satiety could be measured. Significant reductions occurred in food intake (both grams and energy) over the 14‐day study period. On day 7, SIB 30 reduced intake significantly by 1762 kJ (23% reduction from placebo), and on day 14, both SIB 10 and SIB 30 significantly reduced intake compared with placebo (SIB 10, 19% reduction [1490 kJ]; SIB 30,26% reduction [2079 HI). On day 7, the percentage of energy consumed from carbohydrate increased significantly with the 30‐mg dose (56.7 %) compared with that of placebo (51.4%), with a reciprocal decrease in energy from fat (27.8% to 24%). The results show that SIB reduced energy intake in women with obesity who were not attempting to lose weight.
Body Anthropometry and the Risk of Hip and Wrist Fractures in Men: Results from a Prospective Study
Authors: Owusu William , Willett Walter , Ascherio Alberto , Spiegelman Donna , Rimm Eric , Feskanich Diane , Colditz Graham
Published: September 2012

Available epidemiological information on the associations between body anthropometry and the incidence of fractures in men is limited. We therefore prospectively investigated the association between body anthropometry and the incidence of hip and wrist fractures from low and moderate trauma among 43,053 men who were 40 years to 75 years of age in 1986 when they first enrolled in the Health Professionals Follow‐Up Study. After 8 years of follow‐up, 201 wrist fracture cases and 56 hip fracture cases were reported. Greater height was associated with significant elevations in both hip and wrist fractures, whereas nonsignificant inverse associations were observed with weight and body mass index. Men in the highest quintile of waist circumference had a relative risk (RR) of 2.57 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64 to 10.3) for hip fracture and 2.05 (95% CI 1.06 to 3.96) for wrist fracture when compared with men in the lowest quintile. Waist‐to‐hip ratio was also positively related to fracture incidence; comparing highest with lowest quintile, the RRs were 3.92 (95% CI 1.07 to 14.3) for hip fracture and 1.50 (95% CI 0.85 to 2.66) for wrist fracture. These anthropometric indicators, in particular waist‐to‐hip ratio, may be useful for the prediction of hip fracture in adult men.
Current Estimates of the Economic Cost of Obesity in the United States
Authors: Wolf Anne M. , Colditz Graham A.
Published: September 2012

This study was undertaken to update and revise the estimate of the economic impact of obesity in the United States. A prevalence‐based approach to the cost of illness was used to estimate the economic costs in 1995 dollars attributable toobesity for type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension, gallbladder disease, breast, endometrial and colon cancer, and osteoarthritis. Additionally and independently, excess physician visits, work‐lost days, restricted activity, and bed‐days attributable to obesity were analyzed cross‐sectionally using the 1988 and 1994 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Direct (personal health care, hospital care, physician services, allied health services, and medications) and indirect costs (lost output as a result of a reduction or cessation of productivity due to morbidity or mortality) are from published reports and inflated to 1995 dollars using the medical component of the consumer price index (CPI) for direct cost and the all‐items CPI for indirect cost. Population‐attributable risk percents (PAR%) are estimated from large prospective studies. Excess work‐lost days, restricted activity, bed‐days, and physician visits are estimated from 88,262 U. S. citizens who participated in the 1988 NHIS and 80,261 who participated in the 1994 NHIS. Sample weights have been incorporated into the NHIS analyses, making these data generalizable to the U. S. population. The total cost attributable to obesity amounted to $99. 2 billion dollars in 1995. Approximately $51. 64 billion of those dollars were direct medical costs. Using the 1994 NHIS data, cost of lost productivity attributed to obesity (BMI≥30) was $3. 9 billion and reflected 39. 2 million days of lost work. In addition, 239 million restricted‐activity days, 89. 5 million bed‐days, and 62. 6 million physician visits were attributable to obesity in 1994. Compared with 1988 NHIS data, in 1994 the number of restricted‐activity days (36%), bed‐days (28%), and work‐lost days (50%) increased substantially. The number of physician visits attributed to obesity increased 88% from 1988 to 1994. The economic and personal health costs of overweight and obesity are enormous and compromise the health of the United States. The direct costs associated with obesity represent 5. 7% of our National Health Expenditure in the United States.
Effects of Sibutramine on Resting Metabolic Rate and Weight Loss in Overweight Women
Authors: Seagle Helen M. , Bessesen Dan H. , Hill James O.
Published: September 2012

Sibutramine, a monoamine re‐uptake inhibitor, has recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a weight loss agent. Sibutramine lowers body‐weight in rodents by reducing energy intake and increasing energy expenditure. Sibutramine facilitates weight loss in human subjects, but it is not clear whether it acts on energy intake, energy expenditure, or both. The present study was a randomized clinical trial designed to assess the effects of sibutramine (at 10 or 30 mg/day) on body weight and resting metabolic rate (RMR). Forty‐four overweight women were randomized to 1) placebo (n=15); 2) sibutramine at 10 mg/day (n=15) or, 3) sibutramine at 30 mg/day (n=14). All subjects were instructed to consume a 1200 kcal/day diet for 8 weeks while receiving drug or placebo. RMR was assessed by indirect calorimetry at baseline, at 3 hours after the first dose of drug (or placebo), and at the end of the 8‐week weight‐loss period. Sibutramine reduced body weight‐relative to placebo, but there was no difference between weight loss on the two sibutramine doses. No significant differences in RMR between sibutramine and placebo were seen, either 3‐hour post dose or after the 8‐week weight‐loss period. After the weight loss period, all groups were taken off medication and kept weight stable for another 4 weeks. RMR was measured again and was not different among groups. That there was no change in RMR when sibutramine was stopped further suggests that the drug does not directly affect RMR. In summary, while sibutramine was shown to be an effective weightloss agent over 8 weeks, we found no evidence that it increased RMR.
Relationship of Leptin Concentration to Gender, Menopause, Age, Diabetes, and Fat Mass in African Americans
Authors: Sumner Anne E. , Falkner Bonita , Kushner Harvey , Considinet Robert V.
Published: September 2012

This investigation was designed to determine the relationship of leptin concentration to gender, sex hormones, menopause, age, diabetes, and fat mass in African Americans. Participants included 101 African Americans, 38 men (mean age, 34. 2 ± 7. 4 years), 29 age‐matched premenopausal women (mean age, 32. 6 ± 3. 7 years), and 36 postmenopausal women (mean age, 57. 8 ± 5. 9 years). The women were not taking exogenous sex hormones, and 12 subjects were diabetic. Percent body fat was calculated with the Siri formula, fat mass (FM) was calculated as weight x percent body fat, and Fat‐free mass (FFM) was calculated as weight minus FM. Fasting plasma was assayed for leptin, estradiol, free testosterone, glucose, and insulin concentrations. The nondiabetics had an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The diabetics compared with the non‐diabetics had a higher central fat index (P=0. 04) but otherwise were similar to nondiabetics in all parameters measured. Body mass index, percent body fat, and FM were greater in women than men (p<0. 001). Leptin concentrations in men, premenopausal, and postmenopausal women were: 7. 51 ± 8. 5, 33. 9 ± 17. 3, 31. 4 ± 22. 3 ng/mL. Leptin/FM x 100 in the three groups were: 28. 9 ± 16. 1, 98. 65 ± 44. 9, 77. 1 ± 44. 5 ng/mL/kg. The gender difference in leptin concentration and leptin/FM was significant (p<0. 001), but the difference between premenopausal and postmenopausal women was not. In each group, weight, percent body fat, and FM were highly correlated with leptin concentration. Multiple regression analyses with leptin concentration as the dependent variable and age, diabetic status, percent body fat, weight, FM, FFM, estradiol, and free testosterone concentrations as independent variables demonstrated that the determinants of leptin concentration in men was weight only (R=0. 83,p<0. 001), in premenopausal women it was FM only (R=0. 57,P<0. 001), and in postmenopausal women it was weight only (R=0. 67, p<0. 001). With diabetics excluded, the multiple regression analysis was repeated with fasting insulin concentration and the area under the insulin curve during the OGTT included as independent variables. The results for this multiple regression analyses were the same as the first. Therefore, leptin concentration in African Americans is determined by gender and fat mass. Menopause, age, and diabetes do not affect leptin concentration.
The Effect of Glucose Concentration on Insulin‐Induced 3T3‐L1 Adipose Cell Differentiation
Authors: Gagnon Anne Marie , Sorisky Alexander
Published: September 2012

We examined the effect of glucose concentration on insulin‐induced 3T3‐L1 adipose cell differentiation. Oil Red O staining of neutral lipid, cellular triglyceride mass, and glycerol phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) activity, were greater in 3T3‐L1 cells cultured at 5 mM vs. 25 mM glucose. GPDH activity was 2‐ to 4‐fold higher at 5 mM vs. 25 mM glucose over a range of insulin concentrations (0. 1 to 100 nM). Insulin‐stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate‐1 (IRS‐1) was 1. 7‐fold greater, and insulinstimulated phosphoinositide 3‐kinase association with IRS‐1 was 2. 3‐fold higher, at 5 mM vs. 25 mM glucose. These effects of glucose were not caused by alterations in IRS‐1 mass or cell‐surface insulin binding. In preadipose cells at 5 mM glucose, expression of the leukocyte antigen‐related (LAR) protein tyrosine phosphatase (negative regulator of insulin signaling) was 63% of the level at 25 mM glucose. Our data demonstrate that glucose concentration affects insulin‐induced 3T3‐L1 adipose cell differentiation as well as differentiation‐directed insulin signaling pathways. Alterations in LAR expression potentially may be involved in modulating these responses.
Beliefs About Weight Gain and Attitudes Toward Relapse in a Sample of Women and Men with Obesity
Authors: Cachelin Fary M. , Striegel‐Moore Ruth H. , Brownell Kelly D.
Published: September 2012

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine beliefs regarding reasons for weight gain, likely responses to weight loss relapse, notions of reasonable weight loss, and correlations between beliefs and attitudes in a large nonclinical sample of men and women with obesity.

Research Methods and Procedures: Participants were 3,394 white women (n= 1,674) and men (n = 1,720) with obesity who had responded to a survey about body image and eating behaviors conducted by Consumer Reports magazine.

Results: Women and men indicated that the most important reasons for their weight gain were lack of exercise and enjoying eating; the least important reason was a need to avoid social or sexual situations. Both groups reported that their most likely response to relapse is to start watching food intake, whereas their least likely response is to ask a friend, spouse, or family member for help. Women rated depression, stress, low self‐esteem, and need to avoid situations as more important reasons for their weight gain than did men, and women were more likely to feel terrible and regain as a response to relapse. There was no relationship between an individual's beliefs about weight gain, responses to relapse, or notions of reasonable weight loss.

Discussion: Implications of these findings for the treatment of obesity are discussed.
A Comparison of Sibutramine and Dexfenfluramine in the Treatment of Obesity
Authors: Hanotin Corinne , Thomas Florence , Jones Stephen P. , Leutenegger Eric , Drouin Pierre
Published: September 2012

Objective: Because long‐term weight reduction is often unsuccessful with dietary restriction alone, pharmacological agents have been used to promote weight loss. We have compared the novel (multiple monoamine neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitor) antiobesity drug sibutramine (10 mg once daily) with the extensively studied serotonin‐releasing antiobesity agent dexfenfluramine (15 mg twice daily).

Research Methods and Procedures: 226 healthy outpatients (aged 18 to 65 years; body mass index ≥27 kg/m2) were included in a 12‐week, randomized, double‐blind, parallel group study. The main outcome measures were changes in weight, body mass index, waist and hip circumference and ratio, and safety profiles.

Results: Mean (±SEM) absolute weight loss was 4.5 ± 0.4 kg in the sibutramine group (n = 112) and 3.2 ± 0.3 kg in the dexfenfluramine group (n=112) (endpoint analysis); 4.7 ± 0.4 kg in the sibutramine group (n=101); and 3.6 ± 0.3 kg in the dexfenfluramine group (n = 94) (completers analysis). Comparing the two treatments under the conventional null hypothesis of equality as a secondary analysis, weight loss at endpoint in patients receiving sibutramine was significantly greater than that achieved with dexfenfluramine (p<0.05). Both drugs had similar adverse events profiles: 174 patients (77%) experienced adverse events; 17 patients withdrew due to adverse events (sibutramine, n = 6; dexfenfluramine, n = 11). Pulse rate increased significantly in sibutramine‐treated patients (3.6 bpm), but decreased in dexfenfluramine‐treated patients (‐0.9 bpm).

Discussion: Sibutramine (10 mg once daily) is at least as effective as dexfenfluramine (15 mg twice daily) in achieving weight loss in patients with obesity.
What Do We Most Need to Learn about Food Intake Regulation?
Authors: Flatt J.P.
Published: September 2012

Many mechanisms are known to contribute to the regulation of food intake. This notwithstanding, variations in food intake from day to day and deviations from daily energy balance are substantial and very readily tolerated. Yet, despite this very loose short‐term adjustment of food intake to energy expenditure, most adults maintain stable body compositions during long periods of their lives. This is particularly puzzling when it occurs in the face of an ubiquitous supply of appealing foods and under circumstances that, in many ways, promote food consumption. Thus, the question arises as to why people in affluent societies eat substantially less on most days, than the amounts that they can so readily consume on high‐intake days? In addition to conscious decisions, physiological phenomena restraining food consumption must be presumed to play an important role in limiting weight. But what are the phenomena that cause spontaneous reduction in food intake after a few days of overeating? Our ignorance about the nature and impact of these effects stands in the way of a better understanding of body weight regulation and of the factors responsible for the induction and maintenance of obesity.
Body Composition Changes in Caucasian and African American Children and Adolescents with Obesity Using Dual‐Energy X‐ray Absorptiometry Measurements after a 10‐Week Weight Loss Program
Authors: Figueroa‐Colon Reinaldo , Mayo Matthew S. , Aldridge Ruby A. , Winder Tracy , Weinsier Ronald L.
Published: September 2012

Objective: Changes in body composition during a weight loss program have not been described in children. We wanted to test the hypothesis that weight loss can be achieved while maintaining total body fat‐free mass.

Research Methods and Procedures: We determined body composition changes by using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry measured at baseline and after the first 10 weeks of a multidisciphnary weight loss program. The program consisted of 10 weekly group sessions where the children were provided instruction in lifestyle modification, including diet and exercise. Program leaders included a pediatrician, psychologist, registered dietitian, and exercise instructor.

Results: We studied 59 obese children, mean (± SD) age 12.8 ± 2.6 years, 29% boys and 71% girls, 49% Caucasian, and 51% African American. At enrollment, the children's mean height and body mass index were 157 cm and 38.9 kg/m2, respectively. The children's dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry‐derived mean at baseline and at 10 weeks and corresponding p values were: weight (94.6 kg vs. 92.3 kg, p<0.0001), total body fat mass (46.9 kg vs. 44.3 kg, p<0.0001), percentage total body fat (49.2% vs. 47.5%, p<0.0001), total trunk mass (43.0 kg vs. 41.5 kg,p<0.0001), total trunk fat (21.2 kg vs. 20.0 kg, p<0.0001), total body fat‐free mass (47.6 kg vs. 47.9 kg, p = 0.33), total body bone mass (2.7 kg vs. 2.7 kg, p = 0.99), and total body bone mineral density (1.14 g/cm2 vs. 1.15 g/cm2, p = 0.0119). The children's race, gender, or Tanner stage did not affect these changes.

Discussion: Decreases in total body fat mass was achieved, and total body fat‐free mass was maintained among boy and girl Caucasian and African American children participating in this lifestyle modification weight loss program.
Abnormally High Nourishment During Sensitive Periods Results in Body Weight Changes Across Generations
Authors: Diaz Jaime , Taylor Elsie M.
Published: September 2012

Objective: This study asked whether a brief period of over‐nutrition during a developmentally sensitive time could impact the individual's adult weight and that of succeeding generations.

Research Methods and Procedures: Female rat pups (F1 generation) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: (1) a control group that was naturally reared by mothers; (2) another control group implanted with chronic gastric fistulas on postnatal day 4 and fed enough formula to match the growth of the mother‐reared group; and (3) an experimental group gastrostomized and infused from day 8 through day 16 with a greater quantity of food than gastrostomy‐reared controls (OF). On postnatal day 16, both gastrostomy‐reared groups were returned to normal litters. Adult F1 females from overfed and mother‐reared groups were bred with normal males to yield an F2 generation. F2 adult females were bred to normal males to produce an F3 generation.

Results: When adult, the F1 experimental group was heavier than control groups. F2 adults from OF mothers were smaller than those from the control group. F3 animals from OF grandmothers were heavier at weaning than F3 descendants from mother‐reared animals.

Discussion: Excess nourishment during a developmentally sensitive period changed the metabolic phenotype of one generation so dramatically that the gestational development and subsequent phenotype of two succeeding generations were also changed. The experiment models fetal effects of gestational diabetes in humans and may help to elucidate how, independent of genetic anomalies, secular changes can be detected across generations.
MINI‐REVIEW Assessment of Body Image Disturbance in Obesity
Authors: Thompson J. Kevin , Tantleff‐Dunn Stacey
Published: September 2012

Disturbance in body image has long been noted as one of the most distressing psychological factors for obese individuals. Yet, only in recent years have researchers and clinicians begun to appreciate the need to integrate systematic evaluation of this component into intervention programs. Accordingly, this mini‐review offers an overview of selected strategies for the assessment of body image disturbance in obesity.
Gender Differences in Changes in Subcutaneous and Intra‐abdominal Fat during Weight Reduction: An Ultrasound Study
Authors: Wirth Alfred , Steinmetz Berit
Published: September 2012

WIRTH, ALFRED, AND BERIT STEINMETZ. Gender differences in changes in subcutaneous and intra‐abdominal fat during weight reduction: an ultrasound study. Obes Res. 1998;6:393–399.

Objective: In weight‐reducing programs, men usually display greater improvement in metabolic risk factors than women. This gender difference may be related to enhanced weight and fat loss due to a greater energy deficit in men. To clarify the relationship between changes in metabolic profile, body fat composition, and weight loss, both sexes were studied under a regimen in which similar amounts of weight were lost.

Research Methods and Procedures: A cross‐sectional study using anthropometric (body mass index and waist‐to‐hip ratio), impedance (bioelectrical impedance analysis) and ultrasound measurement methods (thickness of subcutaneous fat layers, intra‐abdominal sagittal diameter) were conducted. The metabolic risk profile was determined by measuring lipids, lipoproteins, and blood pressure. The weight loss program lasted 15 weeks: 3 weeks under controlled conditions in the hospital and 12 weeks on an ambulatory basis. Patients were instructed to follow a mixed diet. Calorie intake was restricted to 1500 kcal/day for the men and 1200 kcal/day for the women. Thirty‐two subjects with obesity (16 men and 16 women), with a mean body mass index of 35 kg/m2—matched with regard to age, height, and body weight—took part in the study.

Results: As expected, weight loss was similar for both sexes (−13.4 kg vs. −12.8 kg). Also, body fat mass changed to the same extent in absolute and relative terms. The waist‐to‐hip ratio was identical before and after treatment in both sexes. The men lost more visceral fat than the women. This result is based on changes in intra‐abdominal diameter as well as abdominal subcutaneous fat in relation to waist circumference. Changes in abdominal diameter were paralleled by reductions in triglycerides and increases in high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol. Subcutaneous fat loss was more pronounced in women than in men.

Discussion: Where absolute and relative reductions in body weight and body fat are similar, men mobilize more intraabdominal fat than women, whereas women lose more subcutaneous fat. The greater reduction in intra‐abdominal fat seen in men is accompanied by a more pronounced improvement in the metabolic risk profile. Therefore, greater improvement of risk factors in men is not only related to a greater negative energy balance, as shown in most studies, but is also sex‐specific.
Divergent Effects of Short‐Term, Very‐Low‐Calorie Diet on Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐I and Insulin‐Like Growth Factor Binding Protein‐3 Serum Concentrations in Premenopausal Women with Obesity
Authors: de Pergola Giovanni , Zamboni Mauro , Pannacciulli Nicola , Turcato Emanuela , Giorgino Francesco , Armellini Fabio , Logoluso Francesco , Sciaraffia Marcello , Bosello Ottavio , Giorgino Riccardo
Published: September 2012

DE PERGOLA, GIOVANNI, MAURO ZAMBONI, NICOLA PANNACCIULLI, EMANUELA TURCATO, FRANCESCO GIORGINO, FABIO ARMELLINI, FRANCESCO LOGOLUSO, MARCELLO SCIARAFFIA, OTTAVIO BOSELLO, RICCARDO GIORGINO. Divergent effects of short‐term, very‐low‐calorie diet on insulinlike growth factor‐I and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3 serum concentrations in premenopausal women with obesity. Obes Res. 1998;6:408–415.

Objective: Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) and insulinlike growth factor binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3) serum concentrations provide a good measure of the biological effects of growth, hormone. The aims of the present study were to: (1) investigate the associations of IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 with body fat mass and distribution, and (2) evaluate the effects of 3 weeks of very‐low‐calorie diet (VLCD) (318 kcal/day, with 40 g protein, 35 g carbohydrate, and 2 g fat) on IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 serum concentrations.

Research Methods and Procedures: The study was performed in 21 nondiabetic premenopausal women with obesity (body mass index <27.0 kg/m2; age: ranging from 18 to 48 years). Body fat mass and distribution were measured by computed tomography.

Results: Before dietary treatment, IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 serum concentrations were inversely associated with visceral adipose tissue (VAT) area (p<0.005 and p<0.05, respectively), but not with either total body fat or subcutaneous adipose tissue area. VLCD produced a significant decrease of body mass index (p<0.001), total body fat (p<0.001), VAT (p<0.005), subcutaneous adipose tissue (p<0.001), IGF‐I concentrations (p<0.05), and an increase of IGFBP‐3 serum levels (p<0.001). The association of VAT with either IGF‐I or IGFBP‐3 serum concentrations was not maintained following VLCD.

Discussion: Our study suggests that visceral adipose tissue, rather than adiposity per se, accounts for IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 serum concentrations, and that rapid weight loss, possibly due to nutritional changes, results in lower IGF‐I concentrations, higher IGFBP‐3 concentrations, and abrogation of the inverse associations of VAT with IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3.
Effects of Obesity and Weight Loss on Cardiac Function and Valvular Performance
Authors: Karason Kristjan , Wallentin Ingemar , Larsson Bo , Sjöströmt Lars
Published: September 2012

KARASON, KRISTJAN, INGEMAR WALLENTIN, BO LARSSON, LARS SJOSTROM. Effects of obesity and weight loss on cardiac function and valvular performance. Obes Res. 1998;6:422–429.

Objective: To study the consequences of long‐standing obesity on myocardial function and valvular performance and to determine the effects of weight loss on these cardiovascular features.

Research Methods and Procedures: We included 41 patients with obesity referred for weight‐reducing gastroplasty, 31 patients with obesity who received dietary recommendations, and 43 lean subjects. Body weight and blood pressure were measured, and cardiac function and valvular performance were estimated echocardiographically. Left ventricular ejection fraction was used to assess systolic heart function, and the ratio of transmitral early to atrial (E/A) peak flow velocity was used as an estimate of diastolic filling. All three study groups were investigated at baseline, and the two groups with obesity were re‐examined at 1‐year follow‐up.

Results: Patients with obesity had higher blood pressure, greater cardiac output, lower ejection fraction, and reduced E/A ratio, compared with lean subjects (p<0.01). Surgical treatment of obesity led to significant decreases in body weight, whereas body weight remained unchanged in the group treated with dietary recommendations (p<0.001). In the weight loss group, blood pressure and cardiac output decreased and the E/A ratio increased (p<0.001). Left ventricular ejection fraction tended to increase in the weight loss group and decrease in the obese control group p<0.01). No significant valvular disease was observed in any of the subjects with obesity at baseline or after weight loss.

Discussion: We conclude that weight reduction in subjects with obesity is associated with improvements in left ventricular diastolic filling and has favorable effects on left ventricular ejection fraction. Neither obesity nor weight loss seem to promote valvular heart disease.
Sensory and Hedonic Judgments of Common Foods by Lean Consumers and Consumers with Obesity
Authors: Cox David N. , Van Galen Marjolein , Hedderley Duncan , Perry Lynne , Moore Peter B. , Mela David J.
Published: September 2012

COX, DAVID N., MARJOLEIN VAN GALEN, DUNCAN HEDDERLEY, LYNNE PERRY, PETER B. MOORE, DAVID J. MELA. Sensory and hedonic judgments of common foods by lean consumers and consumers with obesity. Obes Res. 1998;6:438–447.

Objective: To establish differences between lean subjects and subjects with obesity in subjective reports of predominant taste and texture attributes of common foods, and the relationships of these qualities and foods with overall liking.

Research Methods and Procedures: Twenty lean (body mass index: 20 to 25 kg/m2) nondieting healthy adults and 23 (body mass index: ≥30 kg/m2) nondieting healthy adults with obesity assigned ratings for pleasantness and predominant sensory attributes to 50 common foods in 14 food groups using a questionnaire. They completed the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance.

Results: There were no significant group differences between pleasantness scores overall; however, lean subjects assigned higher scores to fruits and vegetables, to foods self‐classified as sweet and as salty/savory, and to foods grouped in the highest and lowest quintiles of percentage food energy from fat. There were no group differences in free‐choice texture descriptors applied to foods, but correspondence analysis revealed that subjects with obesity associated coarse, slippery, tough, and fatty textures with “dislike extremely,” whereas lean subjects associated grainy, moist, doughy, and fibrous texture with “like extremely.” Analyses reduced texture terms to 39 key descriptors for use in subsequent work. Groups did not significantly differ in reported external or restrained eating behaviors, but subjects with obesity scored significantly higher for reported emotional eating.

Discussion: Differences in preferences for listed common foods exist between weight status groups according to taste, food group, and texture. Consumers can make textural descriptions of foods that could be used to assess sensory and hedonic qualities of actual food choices.
The Insulin Resistance—Dyslipidemic Syndrome of Visceral Obesity: Effect on Patients' Risk
Authors: Després Jean‐Pierre
Published: September 2012

Coronary heart disease (CHD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus represent two highly prevalent conditions in affluent societies. Although a dyslipidemic state is frequently found in type 2 patients with obesity, studies have shown that the high triglyceride, low high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol dyslipidemia is also found in nondiabetic patients with insulin resistance. Studies that have used imaging techniques to assess the regional distribution of body fat have shown that an excess of visceral adipose tissue, that is, a high accumulation of fat in the abdominal cavity, was associated with a cluster of metabolic disturbances such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, glucose intolerance, hypertriglyceridemia, elevated apolipoprotein B (apoB) concentrations, small, dense low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, as well as low HDL cholesterol levels. Prospective studies such as the Quebec Cardiovascular Study have shown that this cluster of metabolic abnormalities commonly found in patients with excess visceral adipose tissue substantially increases the risk of CHD. The high prevalence of visceral obesity in sedentary adult men and postmenopausal women is such that it may represent the most prevalent cause of atherogenic dyslipidemic states associated with CHD in our population.