bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying the Energy Gap: Magnitude and Determinants of 5‐Year Weight Gain in Midage Women
Authors: Brown Wendy J. , Williams Lauren , Ford Jessica H. , Ball Kylie , Dobson Annette J.
Published: April 2008

Objective: The aims of this study were to estimate average yearly weight gain in midage women and to identify the determinants of weight gain and gaining weight at double the average rate.

Research Methods and Procedures: The study sample comprised 8071 participants (45 to 55 years old) in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health who completed mailed surveys in 1996, 1998, and 2001.

Results: On average, the women gained almost 0.5 kg per year [average 2.42 kg (95% confidence interval, 2.29 to 2.54) over 5 years]. In multivariate analyses, variables associated with energy balance (physical activity, sitting time, and energy intake), as well as quitting smoking, menopause/hysterectomy, and baseline BMI category were significantly associated with weight gain, but other behavioral and demographic characteristics were not. After adjustment for all of the other biological and behavioral variables, the odds of gaining weight at about twice the average rate (>5 kg over 5 years) were highest for women who quit smoking (odds ratio = 2.94; 95% confidence interval, 2.17, 3.96). There were also independent relationships between the odds of gaining >5 kg and lower levels of habitual physical activity, more time spent sitting, energy intake (but only in women with BMI > 25 at baseline), menopause transition, and hysterectomy.

Discussion: The average weight gain equates with an energy imbalance of only about 10 kcal or 40 kJ per day, which suggests that small sustained changes in the modifiable behavioral variables could prevent further weight gain.
Corticosteroid Binding Globulin Gene Polymorphism Influences Cortisol Driven Fat Distribution in Obese Women
Authors: Barat Pascal , Duclos Martine , Gatta Blandine , Roger Patrick , Mormede Pierre , Moisan Marie‐Pierre
Published: April 2008

Hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenal axis has been reported to influence fat mass distribution in obesity. We investigated the hypothesis that corticosteroid‐binding globulin (CBG) polymorphism could influence obesity, metabolic, or hypothalamo‐pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis activity parameters. In 44 obese pre‐menopausal women, a microsatellite located within the CBG gene was analyzed, providing three genotypes: 86/86 (n = 29), 86/90 (n = 14), and 90/90 (n = 1). No significant difference was found for obesity, metabolic, and HPA axis activity parameters between the genotypes 86/86 and 86/90. Looking for differences in correlations between HPA axis activity parameters and obesity or metabolic parameters between the two genotypes, genotype 86/90 showed a strong correlation between salivary cortisol after dexamethasone (0.25 mg) suppression test and waist‐to‐hip ratio (r = −0.84, p = 0.0007), whereas this correlation was weaker for genotype 86/86 (r = −0.34, p = 0.09). These data were completed with an analysis of the BclI polymorphism of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) gene. There was an association between this GR polymorphism and both awakening salivary cortisol and postdexamethasone salivary cortisol but no association for obesity or metabolic parameters. We concluded that CBG gene polymorphisms might modulate the influence of the HPA axis on the fat mass distribution in this population.
Effects of Interaction between Angiotensin I‐Converting Enzyme Polymorphisms and Lifestyle on Adiposity in Adolescent Greeks
Authors: Moran Colin N. , Vassilopoulos Christos , Tsiokanos Athanasios , Jamurtas Athanasios Z. , Bailey Mark E.S. , Wilson Richard H. , Pitsiladis Yannis P.
Published: April 2008

Genetic variation in the human angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) gene has been associated with many heritable traits, including obesity. Herein, we report the results of a study of obesity‐related phenotypes and lifestyle in 1016 teen‐aged Greeks. We show that there is a strong association (p = 0.001) between subcutaneous fat and the ACE insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in females, possession of genotypes containing the D allele being associated with increased fat thickness. This association is strongest in females who participate in no extra exercise and accounts for 6.5% of the phenotypic variance in fat thickness by ANOVA. The association is additive, with the mean phenotypic values in heterozygotes intermediate between the means of the two homozygotes, and the association acts at both extremes of the fat thickness distribution in a classical polygenic manner. Other ACE polymorphisms (rs4424958, rs4311) that define major haplotypes in European populations fail to provide stronger associations with the subcutaneous fat phenotype. Because ACE I/D is the polymorphism most strongly associated with circulating ACE levels in European populations, we propose that the functional allelic differences that influence circulating ACE levels also mediate the associations with the obesity‐related phenotypes studied here.
Treatment of Morbid Obesity in Low‐income Adolescents: Effects of Parental Self‐monitoring
Authors: Kirschenbaum Daniel S. , Germann Julie N. , Rich Barry H.
Published: April 2008

Objective: This study examined the extent to which consistency of self‐monitoring by participants and their parents was related to weight control over an initial period of 3 months within the context of a treatment program for morbidly obese low‐income minority adolescents.

Research Methods and Procedures: Eighty‐three obese adolescents (mean age, 13.0 years; 51% boys; 92% African American; mean BMI, 43.0 kg/m2; mean BMI z‐score, 6.0) and at least one parent participated in a long‐term treatment program that included a very‐low‐fat dietary focus, weekly group cognitive‐behavior therapy, monthly nutrition education classes, a 12‐week physical therapy class, and medical monitoring.

Results: Participants who self‐monitored on the majority of days compared with those who did not self‐monitor at all or who self‐monitored infrequently attended more sessions and generally lost more weight over the first 3 months. Although parents signed behavioral contracts committing to self‐monitor their own eating and exercising over the first month, only 12% did so. Nonetheless, participants whose parents self‐monitored were much more likely to self‐monitor consistently and lose weight during the first 3 months.

Discussion: These results indicate that self‐monitoring is a cornerstone of successful weight control even for morbidly obese low‐income minority adolescents; targeting consistency of self‐monitoring among these high‐risk weight controllers and their parents should be just as important as it is for more affluent and less overweight adolescents.
Sensitivity of ob/ob Mice to Leptin‐Induced Adipose Tissue Apoptosis
Authors: Della‐Fera Mary Anne , Choi Yang‐Ho , Hartzell Diane L. , Duan Juihua , Hamrick Mark , Baile Clifton A.
Published: April 2008

Objective: ob/ob mice have increased sensitivity to many of leptin's effects. The primary objective of this experiment was to determine whether ob/ob mice demonstrated increased sensitivity to leptin‐induced adipose tissue apoptosis.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fifteen‐week‐old female ob/ob and Ob/? mice received 0 (saline), 2.5, or 10 μg/d leptin for 14 days through subcutaneous (sc) osmotic minipumps. Food intake (FI), body temperature, physical activity, and body weight were measured daily. Body composition and weights and adipose tissue apoptosis (percentage DNA fragmentation) of inguinal, parametrial, and retroperitoneal fat pads were determined at the end of the study.

Results: FI decreases were more pronounced in ob/ob. Leptin (10 μg/d) decreased total FI 71% in ob/ob and 34% in Ob/? (p < 0.05). Body weight was decreased by both doses of leptin in ob/ob (p < 0.01) but was unchanged in Ob/?. Leptin increased body temperature in ob/ob but not in Ob/?. Physical activity was increased 400% by 10 μg/d leptin in ob/ob (p < 0.01) but decreased 13% in Ob/? (p < 0.01). Body fat content of ob/ob was reduced by both leptin doses, whereas only 10 μg/d leptin decreased body fat in Ob/?. Fat pad weights were decreased similarly by leptin in both genotypes. However, apoptosis was increased by leptin in all three fat pads in ob/ob, whereas Ob/? showed significant increases only in retroperitoneal.

Discussion: ob/ob mice had greater overall sensitivity to leptin. Although ob/ob mice appeared to be more sensitive than Ob/? mice to leptin‐induced adipose tissue apoptosis, there were differences among adipose depots in responsiveness to leptin‐induced apoptosis.
Low Recognition of Childhood Overweight and Disease Risk among Native‐American Caregivers**
Authors: Adams Alexandra K. , Quinn Rachel A. , Prince Ronald J.
Published: April 2008

Objectives: Pediatric obesity is a significant and increasing problem in Native‐American communities. The aim of this study was to determine whether parents and other caregivers from three Wisconsin tribes recognized overweight children. We also assessed caregiver attributes associated with levels of concern for risk of future overweight and chronic disease.

Research Methods and Procedures: Data were obtained from child health screenings and caregiver surveys. Participants included 366 kindergarten‐through‐second grade child–caregiver dyads. Children's BMI percentiles were calculated and compared with caregiver responses. We assessed the relationships between predictors of caregiver concern for health risk factors and recognition of overweight.

Results: Twenty‐six percent of children were overweight (≥95th percentile), and 19% were at risk for being overweight (≥85th to <95th percentile) using Centers for Disease Control standards. Caregivers recognized only 15.1% of overweight children. Factors predictive of child overweight recognition included a child BMI >99th percentile and grandmother as caregiver. Overall, caregivers were more concerned about diabetes and cardiovascular disease than obesity. Parents with diabetes and heart disease were more concerned than others about risk for these diseases; however, only diabetic parents made a connection between child weight status and future risk of obesity‐related disease. Child sex, child age, and parental education level were not significant predictors for caregiver recognition of an overweight child.

Discussion: Most caregivers did not recognize overweight children or associate excess weight with increased risk of disease. When designing community interventions, it is crucial to incorporate caregivers’ attitudes and beliefs regarding childhood overweight and risk of future disease.
Contribution of Different Mechanisms to Compensation for Energy Restriction in the Mouse
Authors: Hambly Catherine , Speakman John R.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Restriction of energy intake produces weight loss, but the rate of loss is seldom sustained. This is presumed to be a consequence of compensatory reductions in energy expenditure, although the exact contributions of different components to the energy budget remain uncertain. We examined the compensatory responses of mice to a 20% dietary restriction.

Research Methods and Procedures: We measured body mass, body fatness, body temperature, and the components of daily energy expenditure for 50 MF1 mice. Forty mice were then placed on a restricted diet at 80% of their ad libitum intake for 50 days. The remaining 10 mice continued to feed ad libitum. Ten days before the end of the restriction period, the same measurements were taken.

Results: There were no significant differences between the control and restricted groups in any parameters before restriction. During the restriction period, body mass increased in both the control and restricted groups, but at a slower rate in the restricted mice. The control group increased in both fat and fat free mass; however, although the restricted group increased fat to the same extent as the controls, fat free mass increased to a lesser extent. The contributions of the different components of the expended energy to compensate for the reduced energy intake were energy deposition, 2.2%; resting metabolic rate, 22.3%; and activity, 75.5%.

Discussion: Mice were able to compensate almost completely for the restricted energy intake that was achieved by altering the amount of energy required for each component of the energy budget except digestive efficiency.
Retrograde Gastric Electrical Stimulation Reduces Food Intake and Weight in Obese Rats
Authors: Yin Jieyun , Chen Jiande D.Z.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To investigate the therapeutic potential of retrograde gastric electrical stimulation (RGES) for obesity in a rodent model of obesity.

Research Methods and Procedures: The study was performed in 12 obese Zucker rats implanted with two pairs of gastric serosal electrodes, one pair for stimulation and the other for recording intrinsic gastric myoelectrical activity. It was composed of an acute study in three sessions to study the effect of RGES on intrinsic gastric myoelectrical activity and acute food intake and a chronic phase to study the short‐term effect of RGES on weight. RGES was performed through the distal stomach using long pulses at a frequency of tachygastria (known to induce gastric hypomotility).

Results: RGES completely entrained intrinsic gastric myoelectrical activity and turned it into tachygastria at a certain strength. RGES reduced acute food intake compared with the control (p < 0.01). A 2‐week treatment of RGES resulted in a significant reduction in food intake (p = 0.002) and a significantly greater weight loss than sham stimulation (p = 0.004).

Discussion: RGES at a tachygastrial frequency reduces food intake and results in weight loss in obese Zucker rats, and its effect is probably attributed to the introduction of tachygastria in the stomach.
Mapping Quantitative Trait Loci Affecting Variation in Drosophila Triacylglycerol Storage
Authors: De Luca Maria , Yi Nengjun , Allison David B. , Leips Jeff , Ruden Douglas M.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Recent genetic studies indicate that Drosophila melanogaster could be a powerful model to identify genes involved in mammalian adipocyte differentiation and fat storage. The objective of our study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that contribute to variation in triacylglycerol (TAG) storage in two D. melanogaster laboratory strains.

Research Methods and Procedures: We used two genetic mapping procedures to identify loci with main and epistatic effects on TAG storage. First, using 68 recombinant inbred lines derived from the unrelated Oregon R and Russian 2b strains, we mapped the location of QTLs affecting TAG storage using both composite interval mapping and Bayesian epistatic methods. Second, we used the quantitative deficiency mapping procedure to identify candidate genes affecting this trait within one of the QTLs identified on the second chromosome. For both mapping experiments, flies were cultured in standard conditions. TAG content of 4‐ to 5‐day‐old flies, adjusted for live body mass and total proteins, was used as the phenotypic measure.

Results: Multiple QTLs associated with variation in TAG storage were identified by the genome‐wide recombination mapping method, and some of them were sex‐specific. The QTLs had main effects, but a male‐specific epistatic interaction between two QTLs was also found. Finally, two closely linked QTLs were detected by deficiency mapping at 57E1‐57E3 and 57E4‐57F1 on chromosome 2, the first of which causes female‐specific variation in TAG between the Oregon R and 2b strains.

Discussion: Our results suggest that variation in TAG storage in D. melanogaster is controlled by different genetic mechanisms and different sets of QTLs in male and female flies.
A Common β2‐Adrenoceptor Gene Haplotype Protects against Obesity in Swedish Women
Authors: Jiao Hong , Dahlman Ingrid , Eriksson Per , Kere Juha , Arner Peter
Published: April 2008

The β2‐adrenoceptor gene may be of particular importance for human obesity because catecholamines have a central role in energy expenditure both as neurotransmitters and hormones. The gene is highly polymorphic, and individual polymorphisms have previously been examined for their relationship to obesity, but results are conflicting. We performed a haplotype analysis of the β2‐adrenoceptor gene in 1354 women and 421 men, all healthy and at least second generation Scandinavian and with a large interindividual variation in body fat mass. We found three common haplotypes. One of these haplotypes, identified as T, A, C, C at nucleotide positions −47, 46, 79, and 491, was in its homozygote form more common among lean (18%) than obese (13%) women (p = 0.0028), but there was no association with obesity in men (p = 0.47). Women who were homozygous for this haplotype had lower BMI (p = 0.009) and percentage body fat (p = 0.005) in comparison with those having other haplotypes or being heterozygous for TACC. The data suggest an important role of the β2‐adrenoceptor gene in obesity because a common haplotype has recessive protective effects against excess body fat, at least in women.
Mediating Effects of Inflammatory Biomarkers on Insulin Resistance Associated with Obesity
Authors: Wexler Deborah J. , Hu Frank B. , Manson JoAnn E. , Rifai Nader , Meigs James B.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Obesity is associated with elevated levels of biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction [including C‐reactive protein (CRP), E‐selectin, and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1], as well as insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes. We tested the hypothesis that these biomarkers mediate associations among obesity, IR, and risk of diabetes.

Research Methods and Procedures: We stratified 510 initially non‐diabetic women in the Nurses’ Health Study cohort into four phenotypes above/below median BMI (27 kg/m2) and waist circumference (81 cm): low BMI‐low waist (LBLW; N = 190), low BMI‐high waist (LBHW; N = 74), high BMI‐low waist (HBLW; N = 27), and high BMI‐high waist (HBHW; N = 219).

Results: In models assessing associations of weight phenotype with IR [fasting insulin (FI)], adjusted for age and diabetes risk factors, mean FI was higher comparing HBHW women (13.6 μU/mL, p < 0.0001) and LBHW (11.5 μU/mL, p = 0.02) with LBLW women (8.6 μU/mL); HBLW and LBLW women were not significantly different. Differences in FI levels were most strongly attenuated after adjustment for E‐selectin comparing LBHW with LBLW women (11.7 vs. 9.7 μU/mL, p = 0.2).

Discussion: In logistic regression models, LBHW predicted diabetes (risk factor‐adjusted relative risk 2.06, 1.05 to 6.40), compared with LBLW, but was no longer significant after adjustment for E‐selectin or CRP. After adjusting for CRP and E‐selectin, only HBHW and E‐selectin were significantly associated with risk of diabetes. In women with central adiposity and low BMI, endothelial dysfunction and inflammation may mediate the relationship among central fat, IR, and incident diabetes.
Opposite Contributions of Trunk and Leg Fat Mass with Plasma Lipase Activities: The Hoorn Study
Authors: Bos Griët , Snijder Marieke B. , Nijpels Giel , Dekker Jacqueline M. , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , Bouter Lex M. , Heine Robert J. , Jansen Hans
Published: April 2008

Objective: Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic lipase (HL) are essential in hydrolysis of triglyceride‐rich lipoproteins. LPL activity is negatively, whereas HL activity is positively, associated with total body fat. We determined the associations of trunk and leg fat mass with plasma LPL and HL activities in a cross‐sectional study.

Research Methods and Procedures: LPL and HL activities were determined in post‐heparin plasma in a sample of 197 men and 209 women, 60 to 87 years of age. A total body DXA scan was performed to determine trunk and leg fat mass.

Results: In women, but not in men, trunk fat mass was negatively associated with LPL activity, whereas leg fat mass was positively associated, after mutual adjustment and adjustment for age. Standardized βs (95% confidence interval) for trunk and leg fat mass were −0.24 (−0.41; −0.08) and 0.14 (−0.02; 0.31), respectively (interaction by sex, p = 0.03). Larger trunk fat mass was associated with higher HL activity in men [0.48 (0.28; 0.68)] and women [0.40 (0.24; 0.56)]. A negative association of leg fat mass and HL activity was observed in men, although not statistically significant [−0.13 (−0.33; 0.06)], and in women [−0.28 (−0.38; −0.18)].

Discussion: Abdominal fat is associated with unfavorable and femoral fat with favorable LPL and HL activities in plasma.
Evaluation of Prader‐Willi Syndrome Gene MAGEL2 in Severe Childhood‐Onset Obesity
Authors: O'Neill Megan A. , Farooqi I. Sadaf , Wevrick Rachel
Published: April 2008

MAGEL2 is one of the five genes inactivated in Prader‐Willi Syndrome, a neurodevelopmental chromosome microdeletion disorder modified by genomic imprinting. By early childhood, individuals with Prader‐Willi Syndrome exhibit hypothalamic dysfunction, including hyperphagia, and become obese in the absence of behavioral intervention. Murine Magel2 is highly expressed in the hypothalamus during development. We screened the MAGEL2 open reading frame for mutations in genomic DNA samples from hyperphagic but non‐dysmorphic individuals with severe childhood‐onset obesity. Although no mutations likely to affect gene function were identified, we identified three variant alleles. We conclude that severe childhood‐onset obesity is not commonly caused by MAGEL2 mutations.
Obesity in Older Adults: Technical Review and Position Statement of the American Society for Nutrition and NAASO, The Obesity Society
Authors: Villareal Dennis T. , Apovian Caroline M. , Kushner Robert F. , Klein Samuel
Published: April 2008

Obesity causes serious medical complications and impairs quality of life. Moreover, in older persons, obesity can exacerbate the age‐related decline in physical function and lead to frailty. However, appropriate treatment for obesity in older persons is controversial because of the reduction in relative health risks associated with increasing body mass index and the concern that weight loss could have potential harmful effects in the older population. This joint position statement from the American Society for Nutrition and NAASO, The Obesity Society reviews the clinical issues related to obesity in older persons and provides health professionals with appropriate weight‐management guidelines for obese older patients. The current data show that weight‐loss therapy improves physical function, quality of life, and the medical complications associated with obesity in older persons. Therefore, weight‐loss therapy that minimizes muscle and bone losses is recommended for older persons who are obese and who have functional impairments or medical complications that can benefit from weight loss.
Diacylglycerol: Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of an Anti‐Obesity Agent
Authors: Rudkowska Iwona , Roynette Catherine E. , Demonty Isabelle , Vanstone Catherine A. , Jew Stephanie , Jones Peter J. H.
Published: April 2008

Obesity is at the forefront of global health issues and directly contributes to many chronic illnesses. Several dietary components show promise in the treatment of obesity, one of which is oil rich in diacylglycerols (DAGs). Present objectives are to examine scientific knowledge concerning DAG to assess evidence supporting the effects on substrate oxidation rates, body weight and fat mass, and blood lipids, and to assess safety, as well as elucidate potential mechanisms of action. DAG can be synthesized by an enzymatic process to produce mainly 1, 3‐isoform DAG. This 1, 3‐DAG oil is believed to have the ability to increase β‐oxidation, to enhance body weight loss, to suppress body fat accumulation, and to lower serum triacylglycerol levels postprandially. While certain animal and human studies indicate that consumption of 1, 3‐DAG has positive physiological effects, others report no effect. The mechanisms of action of DAG are suggested to decrease the resynthesis of chylomicrons as well as shunting them directly to the liver through the portal vein, where they are oxidized. This increased fat oxidation may influence control of food intake by increasing satiety. Further study into the precise mechanism is required to understand its effects. Safety studies show no risks in consuming a diet rich in DAG oil. Overall, consumption of oils with higher amounts of DAG, specifically 1, 3‐DAG, may be useful in the battle against obesity.
Linkage Analysis of Factors Underlying Insulin Resistance: Strong Heart Family Study
Authors: North Kari E. , Almasy Laura , Göring Harald H.H. , Cole Shelley A. , Diego Vincent P. , Laston Sandra , Cantu Teresa , Williams Jeff T. , Howard Barbara V. , Lee Elisa T. , Best Lyle G. , Fabsitz Richard R. , MacCluer Jean W.
Published: April 2008

In previous work in non‐diabetic participants of the Strong Heart Family Study, we identified three heritable principal components of nine insulin resistance (IR) phenotypes: 1) a glucose/insulin/obesity factor, 2) a blood pressure factor, and 3) a dyslipidemia factor. To localize quantitative trait loci (QTL) potentially influencing these factors, we conducted a genome scan of factor scores in Strong Heart Family Study participants. Approximately 599 men and women, ≥18 years of age, in 32 extended families at three centers (in Arizona, Oklahoma, and North and South Dakota), were examined between 1997 and 1999. We used variance components linkage analysis to identify QTLs for the IR factors. With age, sex, and study center as covariates, we detected linkage of the glucose/insulin/obesity factor to chromosome 4 (robust logarithm of the odds (LOD) = 2.2), the dyslipidemia factor to chromosome 12 (robust LOD = 2.7), and the blood pressure factor to chromosome 1 (robust LOD = 1.6). The peak linkage signals identified for these IR factors support several positive findings from other studies and occur in regions harboring interesting candidate genes. The corroboration of existing QTLs will bring us closer to the identification of the functional genes that predispose to IR.
Quantitative Trait Loci for Metabolic Syndrome in the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network Study
Authors: Kraja Aldi T. , Hunt Steven C. , Pankow James S. , Myers Richard H. , Heiss Gerardo , Lewis Cora E. , Rao D.C. , Province Michael A.
Published: April 2008

As part of the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network study, genome scans were performed in two ethnicities on the categorical metabolic syndrome (MetS). Genome scans were performed also on the factor scores produced by factor analysis (quantitative MetS). Heritabilities were highest for the obesity‐insulin (INS) factor and lowest for blood pressure (BP) and central obesity. Seventeen unique putative quantitative trait loci (QTLs) yielded logarithm of the odds ratio (LOD) scores in excess of 1.7, 8 for blacks and 9 for whites. Important QTL findings in whites included an LOD score of 3.19 on chromosome 15q15 for the BP factor, 3.08 on chromosome 8p23 for the lipids‐INS factor, and 3.07 on chromosome 3p26 for the obesity‐INS factor. In blacks, after excluding type 2 diabetics, important QTLs were identified, including an LOD score of 2.77 on 13p12 for the obesity‐INS factor and 2.63 on chromosome 11q24 for the lipids‐INS factor. Categorical MetS had lower results than quantitative MetS. Notably, several loci identified overlap with those identified in other studies for a single or group of traits. The most promising candidate loci on 11q24 for lipids‐INS and 13p12 for obesity‐INS in blacks, 8p23 for lipids‐INS, 14q24 for obesity‐INS, and 15q15 for BP in whites warrant further investigation.
Quantitative Trait Loci for Lipid Content in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Wang Mei‐Hui , Harshman Lawrence G. , Nuzhdin Sergey V.
Published: April 2008

Recombinant inbred lines derived from a natural population were used to investigate natural genetic variation for lipid abundance, protein abundance, and weight of Drosophila melanogaster. Females were heavier and contained more lipid and soluble protein than males. Lipid and protein abundance were genetically correlated with female weight, but male weight was not correlated with lipid or protein. Lipid and protein abundance were genetically correlated in males, but not in females. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for weight and protein abundance were predominantly on the X chromosome, whereas QTLs for lipid abundance were found on the second and third chromosomes. QTLs for lipid proportion (lipid abundance normalized by weight or protein abundance) were present on all chromosomes; a lipid proportion QTL on the third chromosome correlated with a QTL for starvation resistance observed in a previous study using the same set of recombinant inbred lines, suggesting that it might underlie both traits. Candidate genes are discussed in relationship to lipid abundance, lipid proportion, and starvation resistance.
Pattern Profiling and Mapping of the Fat Body Transcriptome in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Jiang Zhihua , Wu Xiao‐Lin , Michal Jennifer J. , McNamara John P.
Published: April 2008

In Drosophila, the fat body is a collective name for the masses and sheets of adipose tissue that are distributed throughout the fly body. Thus far, >386, 000 Drosophila expressed sequence tags (ESTs) have been deposited to the GenBank database, including 10, 443 derived from fat body in flies (data accessed on October 7, 2004). The objective of this study was to map the transcriptome of the fat body in flies and thus provide genomics and bioinformatics tools for developing a Drosophila model for addressing the genetic complexity of obesity in humans. The gene—EST Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) matches revealed that these ESTs could represent 12, 188 coding genes in the Drosophila genome. Among them, at least 2261 are expressed in the fat body, including 41 identified as preferentially expressed genes with logarithm of odds >3.0. Self‐organizing map analysis revealed a cluster of 290 genes favorably expressed in the fat body compared with genes expressed in five other tissues. Mapping of the fat body transcriptome identified a 1.7‐Mb domain on 3L containing 35 genes that were expressed at a much higher level than in other tissues (transcript density factor = 1.0 ∼ 2.3).
Potential Role of Interleukin‐18 in Liver Disease Associated with Insulin Resistance
Authors: López‐Bermejo Abel , Bosch Montserrat , Recasens Mònica , Biarnés Josefina , Esteve Eduardo , Casamitjana Roser , Vendrell Joan , Ricart Wifredo , Fernández‐Real José‐Manuel
Published: April 2008

Objective: Interleukin (IL)‐18 has been associated with obesity and insulin resistance, both risk factors for the development of liver disease, but the role of IL‐18 in liver disease associated with insulin resistance is presently unknown. We hypothesized that circulating IL‐18 would be related to serum concentrations of liver chemistry tests (LCTs) in apparently healthy subjects and wished to study whether this correlation was dependent on insulin sensitivity (SI).

Research Methods and Procedures: One hundred six apparently healthy white men consecutively enrolled in a cross‐sectional, population‐based study dealing with SI in men were studied, and SI (minimal model analysis), LCTs (colorimetry), and IL‐18 serum concentrations (immunoassay) were assessed.

Results: Compared with subjects in the lowest quartile for serum IL‐18, subjects in the highest quartile exhibited increased serum triglycerides and decreased SI, in addition to higher serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (all p < 0.05). The direct association between both ALT and AST and IL‐18 was further confirmed by examining the distribution of serum IL‐18 by quartiles of ALT and AST. Subjects in the highest quartile for serum ALT and AST had higher IL‐18 concentrations compared with subjects in the lowest quartile for these LCTs (both p = 0.01). In multiple regression analysis, IL‐18, but not SI, was an independent predictor of serum concentrations of ALT and AST, explaining 7% and 4% of their variance, respectively.

Discussion: In summary, IL‐18 serum concentrations are associated in apparently healthy humans with plasma concentrations of various LCTs. IL‐18 could contribute to the development of liver disease associated with insulin resistance.
Dietary Intake of Whole and Refined Grain Breakfast Cereals and Weight Gain in Men
Authors: Bazzano Lydia A. , Song Yiqing , Bubes Vadim , Good Carolyn K. , Manson JoAnn E. , Liu Simin
Published: April 2008

Objective: Prospective studies have suggested that substituting whole grain for refined grain products may lower the risk of overweight and obesity. Breakfast cereal intake is a major source of whole and refined grains and has also been associated with having a lower BMI. The aim of this study was to prospectively assess the association between whole and refined grain breakfast cereal intakes and risk of overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) and weight gain.

Research Methods and Procedures: We examined 17, 881 U.S. male physicians 40 to 84 years of age in 1982 who were free of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and cancer at baseline and reported measures of breakfast cereal intake, weight, and height.

Results: Over 8 and 13 years of follow‐up, respectively, men who consumed breakfast cereal, regardless of type, consistently weighed less than those who consumed breakfast cereals less often (p value for trend = 0.01). Whole and refined grain breakfast cereal intake was inversely associated with body weight gain over 8 years, after adjustment for age, smoking, baseline BMI, alcohol intake, physical activity, hypertension, high cholesterol, and use of multivitamins. Compared with men who rarely or never consumed breakfast cereals, those who consumed ≥1 serving/d of breakfast cereals were 22% and 12% less likely to become overweight during follow‐up periods of 8 and 13 years (relative risk, 0.78 and 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.67 to 0.91 and 0.76 to 1.00, respectively).

Discussion: BMI and weight gain were inversely associated with intake of breakfast cereals, independently of other risk factors.
Intergenerational Perceptions of Body Image in Hispanics: Role of BMI, Gender, and Acculturation
Authors: Olvera Norma , Suminski Richard , Power Thomas G.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To assess role of BMI, gender, and acculturation on maternal and children's perception of body size, body ideal, and attractiveness.

Research Methods and Procedures: Eighty mothers and their 6‐ to‐ 12‐year‐old children (41 boys, 39 girls) participated. Maternal and children's perceptions of body size (actual and ideal) and attractiveness were assessed through a pictorial instrument. Mother and child height and weight, demographic, and acculturation characteristics were also assessed.

Results: Seventy‐nine percent of the mothers were overweight, and 32% of the boys and 34% of the girls were overweight or at‐risk for overweight. BMI influenced the children's selection of perceived ideal size. Overweight or at‐risk for overweight children were more likely to select thinner figures as the ideal size than non‐overweight children. Gender and acculturation differences concerning children's perceptions of body size and attractiveness were also found. Girls perceived the obese figure as being less attractive than did the boys. More acculturated children were likely to select thinner figures as more attractive than their less acculturated counterparts. Maternal acculturation was associated positively with the girls’ choice of thinner figures as an ideal body size, but not with the boys. Mothers viewed their daughters’ actual body size and BMI as ideal, although 34% of the girls were at‐risk for overweight. Mothers perceived average body size figures as more attractive for their sons.

Discussion: Findings from this study provide empirical data about the role of BMI, gender, acculturation, and familial influences on children's perceptions of actual and ideal body sizes and attractiveness.
Reexamining Obesigenic Families: Parents’ Obesity‐related Behaviors Predict Girls’ Change in BMI
Authors: Davison Kirsten Krahnstoever , Francis Lori A. , Birch Leann L.
Published: April 2008

Objective: It has been shown that girls from families in which mothers and fathers had high dietary intake and low physical activity (i.e., obesigenic families) were at increased risk of obesity from ages 5 to 7 years. This follow‐up study uses additional data collected when girls were 9 and 11 years old to examine whether girls from obesigenic families continued to show greater increases in BMI over time and reported unhealthy dietary and activity patterns.

Research Methods and Procedures: Families from the original cohort were reexamined when girls were 9 and 11 years of age. Parents’ and girls’ BMI, dietary intake, and physical activity and girls’ percentage body fat and television viewing were assessed.

Results: In comparison with girls from non‐obesigenic families, girls from obesigenic families showed greater increases in BMI and BMI z score from ages 5 to 7 years that were maintained across ages 7 to 11 years. Furthermore, girls from obesigenic families had higher percentage body fat at ages 9 and 11 years. These results were independent of parents’ BMI. Additional findings showed that girls from obesigenic families had diets higher in percentage fat and had higher levels of television viewing than girls from non‐obesigenic families.

Discussion: The environment that parents create, by way of their own dietary and physical activity behaviors, may have a lasting negative effect on children's weight trajectories and their emerging obesity risk behaviors, such as their dietary patterns. These findings further highlight the importance of the family in establishing children's obesity risk and the necessity of targeting parents of young children in obesity prevention efforts.
Relationship between Plasma Adiponectin Levels and Metabolic Risk Profiles in Taiwanese Children
Authors: Chu Nain‐Feng , Shen Muh‐Han , Wu Der‐Min , Lai Chen‐Ju
Published: April 2008

Objective: Adiponectin, a novel adipokine with antiinflammatory and insulin‐sensitizing properties, has an important role in glucose metabolism and is negatively correlated with body fat amount in adults. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of plasma adiponectin level with metabolic risk profiles and insulin resistance status among Taiwanese children.

Research Methods and Procedures: We enrolled 1248 children (608 boys and 640 girls) to ascertain their demographic, anthropometric, and cardiovascular risk factors distribution in Taipei. We measured plasma insulin, adiponectin, and leptin levels by radioimmunoassay (Linco Research Inc, St. Charles, MO). We calculated an insulin resistance index (IRI) using the Homeostasis Model Assessment model and also calculated an insulin resistance syndrome (IRS) summary score for each individual by adding the quartile ranks from the distribution of systolic blood pressure, serum triglyceride, high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) (inverse), and insulin levels.

Results: In general, the boys had larger BMI, higher systolic blood pressure, serum total cholesterol, and triglyceride, and lower plasma leptin and adiponectin levels than girls. Plasma adiponectin levels were correlated negatively with BMI, leptin, insulin, IRI, and IRS summary score but positively correlated with HDL‐C in both boys and girls. In multivariate regression analyses, adiponectin was negatively associated with insulin (girls only), IRI (girls only), and IRS score, and positively associated with HDL‐C in both genders even after adjusting for age, BMI, plasma leptin level, and other potential confounders.

Discussion: These data suggest that plasma adiponectin levels were negatively associated with metabolic risk profiles that may have played a protective role in the development of insulin resistance among Taiwanese school children.
Prediction of Visceral Adipose Tissue Using Air Displacement Plethysmography in Children
Authors: Winsley Richard J. , Fulford Jon , MacLeod Kenneth M. , Ramos‐Ibanez Norma , Williams Craig A. , Armstrong Neil
Published: April 2008

Objective: To determine the ability of air displacement plethysmography (ADP) to predict visceral adipose tissue (VAT) volume in children.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fifty‐five (33 boys/22 girls) white children 13 to 14 years old were studied. Anthropometric measures were collected for body mass, stature, BMI, and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), and body fat percentage was estimated from triceps and subscapular skinfolds, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and ADP. VAT volume was determined using magnetic resonance imaging, using a multiple slice protocol at levels L1 to L5.

Results: Boys had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) less VAT volume than girls [645.1 (360.5) cm3 vs. 1035.8 (717.3) cm3]. ADP explained the greatest proportion of the variance in VAT volume compared with the other anthropometric measures. Multiple regression analysis indicated that VAT volume was best predicted by ADP body fat percentage in boys [r2 = 0.81, SE of the estimate (SEE) = 160.1, SEE coefficient of variation = 25%] and by WHR and BMI in girls (r2 = 0.80, SEE = 337.71, SEE coefficient of variation = 33%).

Discussion: Compared with the other anthropometric measures, ADP explains the greatest proportion of the variance in VAT volume in children 13 to 14 years old. For boys, ADP is the tool of choice to predict VAT volume, yet using the more simply collected measures of BMI and WHR is recommended for girls. However, large SE of the estimates remained, suggesting that if precision is needed, there is no surrogate for direct imaging of VAT.
The APOA4 Thr347→Ser347 Polymorphism Is Not a Major Risk Factor of Obesity
Authors: Dallongeville Jean , Delcroix Anne‐Gaëlle , Wagner Aline , Ducimetière Pierre , Ruidavets Jean‐Bernard , Arveiler Dominique , Bingham Annie , Ferrières Jean , Amouyel Philippe , Meirhaeghe Aline
Published: April 2008

Objective: The goal of this study was to assess the association between the APOA4 Thr347→Ser347 polymorphism and BMI and obesity.

Research Methods and Procedures: Men and women (n = 3320), randomly recruited in three independent population surveys from the north, east, and south of France, were genotyped for the APOA4 Thr347→Ser347 polymorphism.

Results: There were 1327 overweight (825 men, 502 women) and 611 obese (313 men, 298 women) subjects. The prevalences of subjects carrying at least one Ser347 allele (*/Ser347) were 36.5%, 33.8%, and 34.3% in controls, overweight, and obese subjects, respectively (not significant), and those of the Ser347/Ser347 genotype were 4.5%, 3.0%, and 2.2%, respectively (not significant). In both men and women, mean BMI and body weight were not significantly different among APOA4 genotypes. There was no evidence of heterogeneity among centers, smoking status, alcohol intake, physical activity, and educational level categories. In men, mean waist girth was lower in Ser347/Ser347 (92.2 ± 9.4 cm) than in Thr347 carriers (95.9 ± 10.9 cm; p = 0.01), and plasma triglycerides levels were lower in Ser347 (1.41 ± 1.04 mM) than in Thr347/Thr347 carriers (1.55 ± 1.23 mM; p = 0.01).

Discussion: These results suggest that the APOA4 347Ser allele is not a major risk factor for obesity or overweight.
An Environmental Approach to Obesity Prevention in Children: Medical College of Georgia FitKid Project Year 1 Results
Authors: Yin Zenong , Gutin Bernard , Johnson Maribeth H. , Hanes John , Moore Justin B. , Cavnar Marlo , Thornburg Janet , Moore Donna , Barbeau Paule
Published: April 2008

Objective: To test the hypothesis that third grade children (mean age = 8.7, SD = 0.5) who attended an 8‐month after‐school program would exhibit favorable changes in body composition, cardiovascular fitness, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol compared with children in control condition.

Research Methods and Procedures: Subjects were 61% African‐American, 31% white, and 8% other racial background from 18 public schools. Sixty‐eight percent were eligible for free or reduced price lunch. Percentage body fat and bone mineral density were assessed by DXA, cardiovascular fitness by heart rate response to a step test, resting blood pressure with a Dinamap, and non‐fasting total cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol by finger stick. Data pre‐ and post‐intervention were available for 447 children. Children in the nine intervention schools who attended at least 40% of the after‐school sessions were compared with control subjects.

Results: Compared with the control subjects and after controlling for race, sex, free/reduced price lunch status, and school‐level covariates, youths in the intervention group showed a relative reduction of percentage body fat [−0.76 (95% confidence interval (CI), −1.42, −0.09)], a greater relative gain in bone mineral density [0.008 (95% CI, 0.001, 0.005)], and a greater relative reduction in heart rate response to the step test [−4.4 (95% CI, −8.2, 0.6)]. The other outcome variables showed non‐significant trends in favor of the intervention subjects.

Discussion: These results are promising in light of the potential impact on the emerging childhood obesity epidemic. The Medical College of Georgia FitKid Project has the potential to be institutionalized because it is built on the existing infrastructure in most public schools in the U.S.
Predictors of Long‐term Weight Maintenance
Authors: Vogels Neeltje , Diepvens Kristel , Westerterp‐Plantenga Margriet S.
Published: April 2008

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate available variables of a long‐term weight maintenance study to investigate possible factors predisposing to weight regain after a period of weight loss.

Research Methods and Procedures: The Maastricht Weight Maintenance Study is an ongoing longitudinal study of healthy men and women (29 men and 62 women; 18 to 65 years of age; BMI = 30.2 ± 3.1 kg/m2). A variety of parameters were measured before and after a very‐low‐energy diet and after a follow‐up of at least 2 years.

Results: Mean weight loss was 7.9 ± 3.6 kg, and percent weight regain was 113.8 ± 98.1%. Percent BMI regain was negatively associated with an increase in dietary restraint (r = −0.47, p < 0.05). Percent weight regain was negatively correlated with baseline resting metabolic rate (r = −0.38, p = 0.01) and baseline fat mass (r = −0.24, p = 0.05) and positively correlated with the magnitude of change in body weight (BW) expressed as maximum amplitude of BW (r = 0.21, p < 0.05). In addition, amplitude of BW was positively correlated with the frequency of dieting (r = 0.57, p < 0.01).

Discussion: The best predictors for weight maintenance after weight loss were an increase in dietary restraint during weight loss, a high baseline resting metabolic rate, a relatively high baseline fat mass favoring a fat‐free mass–sparing effect during weight loss, a rather stable BW, and a low frequency of dieting. Therefore, BW maintenance after BW loss seems to be a multifactorial issue, including mechanisms that regulate an individuals’ energy expenditure, body composition, and eating behavior in such a way that energy homeostasis is maintained.