bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alteration of Amine Oxidase Activity in the Adipose Tissue of Obese Subjects
Authors: Visentin Virgile , Prévot Danielle , De Saint Front Véronique Durand , Morin‐Cussac Nathalie , Thalamas Claire , Galitzky Jean , Valet Philippe , Zorzano Antonio , Carpéné Christian
Published: April 2008

Objective: To explore the activity of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) and semicarbazide‐sensitive amine oxidases (SSAOs) in adipose tissue and blood of lean and moderately obese subjects and to study whether there is a link between these hydrogen peroxide‐generating enzymes and blood markers of oxidative stress.

Research Methods and Procedures: Nine obese male subjects (BMI 32.6 ± 0.4 kg/m2) and nine controls (BMI 23.4 ± 0.5) of 24‐ to 40‐year‐old subjects were included in the study. MAO and SSAO activities were measured on microbiopsies of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue by quantifying14C‐tyramine and14C‐benzylamine oxidation. Levels of soluble SSAO, lipid peroxidation products, and antioxidant agents were measured in plasma, whereas cytoprotective enzymes were determined in blood lysates.

Results: The high MAO activity found in adipose tissue was diminished by one‐half in obese subjects (maximum initial velocity of 1.2 vs. 2.3 nmol tyramine oxidized/mg protein/min). There was no change in SSAO activity, either under its adipose tissue‐bound or plasma‐soluble form. Plasma levels of lipid peroxidation products and antioxidant vitamins remained unmodified, as well as erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes, whereas circulating triglycerides, insulin, and leptin were increased.

Discussion: Although they already exhibited several signs of endocrino‐metabolic disorders, the obese men did not exhibit the increase in blood markers of oxidative stress or the decrease in antioxidant defenses reported to occur in very obese or diabetic subjects. The reduced MAO and the unchanged SSAO activities found in obesity suggest that these hydrogen peroxide‐generating enzymes expressed in adipocytes are probably not involved in the onset of the oxidative stress found in severe obesity and/or in its complications.
Increased Portion Size Leads to Increased Energy Intake in a Restaurant Meal
Authors: Diliberti Nicole , Bordi Peter L. , Conklin Martha T. , Roe Liane S. , Rolls Barbara J.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Eating frequently in restaurants is one of the behaviors associated with obesity. This study examined whether increasing the portion size of an entrée affected energy intake at a restaurant meal.

Research Methods and Procedures: In a cafeteria‐style restaurant on different days, the size of a pasta entrée was varied from a standard portion (248 g) to a large portion (377 g). The entrée price was not changed. Intake of the entrée was determined by covertly weighing each dish before and after the meal; intake of all other foods was determined by estimating the percent consumed. The 180 adult customers who purchased the entrée also completed a survey in which they rated characteristics of the meal, including the appropriateness of the entrée portion size and the amount that they ate compared with their usual meal.

Results: Portion size had a significant effect on intake of the entrée (p < 0.0001). Compared with customers who purchased the standard portion, those who purchased the larger portion increased their energy intake of the entrée by 43% (719 kJ; 172 kcal) and of the entire meal by 25% (664 kJ; 159 kcal). There was no difference between the two groups of customers in ratings of the appropriateness of the portion size or of the amount that was eaten in relation to their usual meal.

Discussion: In a restaurant setting, increasing the size of an entrée results in increased energy intake. These results support the suggestion that large restaurant portions may be contributing to the obesity epidemic.
Are Unrealistic Weight Loss Goals Associated with Outcomes for Overweight Women?
Authors: Linde Jennifer A. , Jeffery Robert W. , Finch Emily A. , Ng Debbie M. , Rothman Alexander J.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To examine cross‐sectional correlates of current, goal, and dream weight and their prospective associations with weight loss in treatment.

Research Methods and Procedures: Goal and dream weights, demographic characteristics, and psychosocial factors were assessed by self‐report questionnaire in 302 adult women enrolled in a weight loss trial. Height and weight were assessed at baseline, after 8 weeks of active treatment, and at 6‐ and 18‐month follow‐up. Regression techniques examined associations among baseline, goal, and dream weights, psychosocial factors, and treatment outcomes.

Results: On average, goal and dream weight losses were unrealistically high (−24% and −30%, respectively). High goals were associated with greater expected effort and greater expected reward but were not associated with psychological distress. Goal and dream weight losses were only weakly associated with behavioral or weight outcomes. An association between higher dream weight losses and greater weight loss at 18 months was the only outcome result to reach statistical significance.

Discussion: Results suggest that lack of realism in weight loss goals is not important enough to justify counseling people to accept lower weight loss goals when trying to lose weight.
Calcium and Dairy Acceleration of Weight and Fat Loss during Energy Restriction in Obese Adults
Authors: Zemel Michael B. , Thompson Warren , Milstead Anita , Morris Kristin , Campbell Peter
Published: April 2008

Objective: Increasing 1, 25‐dihydroxyvitamin D in response to low‐calcium diets stimulates adipocyte Ca2+ influx and, as a consequence, stimulates lipogenesis, suppresses lipolysis, and increases lipid accumulation, whereas increasing dietary calcium inhibits these effects and markedly accelerates fat loss in mice subjected to caloric restriction. Our objective was to determine the effects of increasing dietary calcium in the face of caloric restriction in humans.

Research Methods and Procedures: We performed a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial in 32 obese adults. Patients were maintained for 24 weeks on balanced deficit diets (500 kcal/d deficit) and randomized to a standard diet (400 to 500 mg of dietary calcium/d supplemented with placebo), a high‐calcium diet (standard diet supplemented with 800 mg of calcium/d), or high‐dairy diet (1200 to 1300 mg of dietary calcium/d supplemented with placebo).

Results: Patients assigned to the standard diet lost 6.4 ± 2.5% of their body weight, which was increased by 26% (to 8.6 ± 1.1%) on the high‐calcium diet and 70% (to 10.9 ± 1.6% of body weight) on the high‐dairy diet (p < 0.01). Fat loss was similarly augmented by the high‐calcium and high‐dairy diets, by 38% and 64%, respectively (p < 0.01). Moreover, fat loss from the trunk region represented 19.0 ± 7.9% of total fat loss on the low‐calcium diet, and this fraction was increased to 50.1 ± 6.4% and 66.2 ± 3.0% on the high‐calcium and high‐dairy diets, respectively (p < 0.001).

Discussion: Increasing dietary calcium significantly augmented weight and fat loss secondary to caloric restriction and increased the percentage of fat lost from the trunk region, whereas dairy products exerted a substantially greater effect.
Sympathetic Regulation of Glucose Uptake by the α1‐Adrenoceptor in Human Obesity
Authors: Flechtner‐Mors Marion , Jenkinson Christopher P. , Alt Andreas , Biesalski Hans K. , Adler Guido , Ditschuneit Herwig H.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To investigate the involvement of α1‐adrenoceptors in the sympathetic regulation of glucose uptake in human adipocytes.

Research Methods and Procedures: Twenty‐four severely obese subjects participated in this study. The microdialysis technique was used to determine interstitial glucose concentration after stimulation of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue with the α1‐agonist norfenefrine, the α1, 2β‐agonist norepinephrine, and both agents in combination with the α1‐antagonist urapidil. The effect of β‐adrenoceptor stimulation was assessed by orciprenaline. Changes in local blood flow were determined using the ethanol escape technique.

Results: Both norfenefrine and norepinephrine induced a concentration‐dependent decrease of interstitial glucose concentration, with a greater decrease observed with norepinephrine. Preperfusion of adipose tissue with urapidil inhibited glucose decrease. The inhibition was overcome with high concentrations of norfenefrine and norepinephrine, respectively. Both adrenergic agents induced tachyphylaxia. Urapidil enhanced extracellular glucose level at high concentration. Blood flow decreased in the presence of norfenefrine and norepinephrine but increased in response to urapidil. The accelerated blood flow due to urapidil was counteracted by norepinephrine and norfenefrine. Orciprenaline decreased interstitial glucose concentration and increased nutritive blood flow. The observed changes in blood flow induced by adrenergic agents were not related to glucose uptake.

Discussion: The stimulatory effect of the sympathetic nerves on glucose uptake in subcutaneous adipose tissue appears to be mediated by the α1‐adrenoceptor. Norepinephrine enhances glucose entry into adipocytes independently of insulin action. In obese subjects with insulin resistance, the α1‐adrenergic receptor may provide an important alternative pathway for glucose uptake.
Combination of BMI and Waist Circumference for Identifying Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Whites
Authors: Zhu Shankuan , Heshka Stanley , Wang ZiMian , Shen Wei , Allison David B. , Ross Robert , Heymsfield Steven B.
Published: April 2008

Objective: BMI (kilograms per meters squared) and waist circumference (WC) (measured in centimeters) are each associated with the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Therefore, a combination of the two may be more effective in identifying subjects at risk than either alone. The present study sought to identify the combination of BMI and WC that has the strongest association with CVD risk factors in whites.

Research Methods and Procedures: Subjects were 8712 white men and women from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The optimal combination of BMI and WC was developed using logistic regression models with BMI and WC as predictors and CVD risk factors as outcomes. The combined measure of BMI and WC using current cut‐off points was also examined. Sensitivity, specificity, and receiver operating characteristics curves were compared between the combined measures and BMI alone.

Results: For white men, the optimal combination of BMI and WC for identifying CVD risk factors was 0.68 × BMI + 0.32 × WC. This combination generated a score that better estimated the odds of having CVD risk factors than either alone. For white women, WC alone largely determined the likelihood of having CVD risks. The combination of BMI and WC using current cut‐off points may provide an improved measure of CVD risk. Combined measures showed a higher sensitivity or a shorter distance in receiver operating characteristic curves in the identification of CVD risk factors.

Discussion: Combined measures of BMI and WC may provide a higher overall test performance for CVD risk factors and may be useful in some ethnic groups as an improved means of screening subjects for further evaluation in the clinical setting.
Ethnic Differences in Correlates of Obesity between Latin‐American and Black Women
Authors: Sánchez‐Johnsen Lisa A.P. , Fitzgibbon Marian L. , Martinovich Zoran , Stolley Melinda R. , Dyer Alan R. , van Horn Linda
Published: April 2008

Objective: To date, no studies have examined dietary intake, physical activity, and body image in a large sample of Latin‐American and black women recruited using the same methodology. The aim of this study was to examine three potential correlates of obesity (dietary intake, body image, and physical activity) in a large sample of Latin‐American and black women across the weight spectrum.

Research Methods and Procedures: Participants were black (n = 271) and Latin‐American (n = 234) adult women who completed a 24‐hour dietary recall and physical activity and body image questionnaires.

Results: After controlling for BMI, education, marital status, and number of children, black women consumed more kilocalories, dietary fat (grams), and percent calories from fat than Latin‐American women, who consumed more carbohydrates (grams) and dietary fiber (total and soluble). Black women engaged in more sedentary behavior than Latin‐American women. Although Latin‐American women weighed less than black women, they perceived their current body image as heavier and reported greater body image dissatisfaction than black women. Black women also reported a higher ideal body image than Latin‐American women.

Discussion: The combined effect of a diet higher in calories and fat, increased sedentary behavior, and more accepting body image could account for higher rates of obesity among black women. Future studies should further explore cultural attitudes and beliefs related to weight that could provide information for the development of culturally competent obesity interventions.
Effect of Pramlintide on Weight in Overweight and Obese Insulin‐Treated Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Hollander Priscilla , Maggs David G. , Ruggles James A. , Fineman Mark , Shen Larry , Kolterman Orville G. , Weyer Christian
Published: April 2008

Objective: Several randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind trials in insulin‐treated patients with type 2 diabetes have shown that adjunctive therapy with pramlintide reduces hemoglobin (Hb)A1c with concomitant weight loss. This analysis further characterizes the weight‐lowering effect of pramlintide in this patient population.

Research Methods and Procedures: This pooled post hoc analysis of two long‐term trials included all patients who were overweight/obese at baseline (BMI > 25 kg/m2), and who were treated with either 120 μg pramlintide BID (n = 254; HbA1c 9.2%; weight, 96.1 kg) or placebo (n = 244; HbA1c 9.4%; weight, 95.0 kg). Statistical endpoints included changes from baseline to week 26 in HbA1c, body weight, and insulin use.

Results: Pramlintide treatment resulted in significant reductions from baseline to week 26, compared with placebo, in HbA1c and body weight (both, p < 0.0001), for placebo‐corrected reductions of −0.41% and −1.8 kg, respectively. Approximately three times the number of patients using pramlintide experienced a ≥5% reduction of body weight than with placebo (9% vs. 3%, p = 0.0005). Patients using pramlintide also experienced a proportionate decrease in total daily insulin use (r = 0.39, p < 0.0001). The greatest placebo‐corrected reductions in weight at week 26 were observed in pramlintide‐treated patients with a BMI >40 kg/m2 and in those concomitantly treated with metformin (both, p < 0.001), for placebo‐corrected reductions of −3.2 kg and −2.5 kg, respectively.

Discussion: These findings support further evaluation of the weight‐lowering potential of pramlintide in obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Bivariate Linkage between Acylation‐Stimulating Protein and BMI and High‐Density Lipoproteins
Authors: Martin Lisa J. , Cianflone Katherine , Zakarian Robert , Nagrani Gauri , Almasy Laura , Rainwater David L. , Cole Shelley , Hixson James E. , MacCluer Jean W. , Blangero John , Comuzzie Anthony G.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Given the importance of visceral adiposity in the metabolic syndrome, whether levels of adipokines have shared genetic effects (pleiotropy) with aspects of the metabolic syndrome should be addressed. Acylation‐stimulating protein (ASP), an adipose‐derived protein, influences lipid metabolism, obesity, and glucose use. Therefore, our objective was to examine the genetic regulation of ASP and associated pleiotropic effects.

Research Methods and Procedures: We assayed serum ASP levels in 435 Mexican Americans participating in the San Antonio Family Heart Study and performed univariate and bivariate variance components analysis.

Results: Additive genetic heritability of ASP was 26% (p = 0.0004). Bivariate genetic analysis detected significant genetic correlations between ASP and several lipid measures but not between ASP and adiposity or diabetes measures. We detected two potential quantitative trait loci influencing ASP levels. The strongest signal was on chromosome 17 near marker D17S1303 [log of the odds ratio (LOD) = 2.7]. The signal on chromosome 15 reached its peak near marker D15S641 (LOD = 2.1). Both signals localize in regions reported to harbor quantitative trait loci influencing obesity and lipid phenotypes in this population. Bivariate linkage analysis yielded LODs of 4.7 for ASP and BMI on chromosome 17 and 3.2 for ASP and high‐density lipoprotein2a on chromosome 15.

Discussion: Given these findings, there seems to be a significant genetic contribution to variation in circulating levels of ASP and an interesting pattern of genetic correlation (i.e., pleiotropy) with other risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome.
C825T Polymorphism of the G Protein β3 Subunit Is Associated with Obesity but Not with Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Stefan Norbert , Stumvoll Michael , Machicao Fausto , Koch Matthias , Häring Hans U. , Fritsche Andreas
Published: April 2008

Objective: The common C825T polymorphism of the gene that encodes the G protein β3 subunit has been shown to influence lipolysis in human adipocytes and to be associated with hypertension, body fat distribution, and obesity. In addition, it has been shown to be associated with insulin resistance in a small group of hypertensive subjects. We investigated whether this polymorphism contributed to the variability in obesity in our population from southern Germany and whether it was associated with insulin sensitivity of lipolysis and/or glucose disposal.

Research Methods and Procedures: We determined percentage body fat, body fat distribution, glucose tolerance [oral glucose‐tolerance test (OGTT)], insulin sensitivity, and serum free fatty acids using data from OGTTs (N = 774) and clamp (euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, N = 216) in normal and impaired glucose tolerant subjects who were genotyped for this polymorphism.

Results: Compared with noncarriers of the C825T mutation, subjects with the C825T variant (prevalence ∼32%) had higher percentage body fat (p = 0.02) and higher BMI (p = 0.03). No conclusive effect was seen on serum free fatty acids measured either during fasting or at the end of a 2‐hour OGTT. Insulin sensitivity determined during the OGTT and during the clamp, both adjusted for age, gender, and percentage body fat, was not different between the genotypes (p = 0.33 and p = 0.48, respectively).

Discussion: We have concluded that the C825T polymorphism in the G protein β3 subunit played an important role in the determination of obesity in this German population. However, it probably had no direct effects on insulin sensitivity of lipolysis and glucose disposal.
Performance of Two Self‐Report Measures for Evaluating Obesity and Weight Loss*
Authors: Patrick Donald L. , Bushnell Donald M. , Rothman Margaret
Published: April 2008

Objectives: To evaluate performance of the Obesity and Weight‐Loss Quality‐of‐Life (OWLQOL) and Weight‐Related Symptoms (WRSM) measures.

Research Methods and Procedures: Four studies of obese persons 18 to 75 years of age were analyzed: a 12‐week initial validation study, a clinical trial using blinded endpoint data at 50 to 83 weeks, and community studies conducted in the U.S. and Europe. Fifty‐six initial validation study subjects visited 1 week after screening to evaluate reproducibility.

Results: Overall, 6107 obese persons completed one assessment, 291 completed follow‐up at 12 weeks, and 642 at >50 weeks. Psychometric analyses resulted in a 17‐item OWLQOL with a single score tested on five samples that was internally consistent (α values > 0.90) and reproducible (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.95). The OWLQOL score (higher is better) was associated, as expected, with the symptom measure (lower is better, −0.54), generic quality of life measure (0.53), and measures of physical (0.40) and mental functioning (0.47). The 20‐item WRSM was internally consistent (α = 0.87) and reproducible (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.83). The OWLQOL discriminated between genders (p < 0.001), presence of disability days (p < 0.05), levels of BMI (p < 0.05), and levels of symptom bothersomeness (p < 0.001). Evaluation at 12 weeks yielded an effect size for ≥2.5% weight loss of 0.77 for the OWLQOL and −0.54 for the WRSM. At ≥50 weeks for ≥10% weight change, effect sizes were 1.63 and −0.73, respectively.

Discussion: The OWLQOL and WRSM are brief, valid, reproducible, and responsive self‐reported outcomes for evaluating obesity and weight loss.
Seasonal Variation in Total Energy Expenditure and Physical Activity in Dutch Young Adults
Authors: Plasqui Guy , Westerterp Klaas R.
Published: April 2008

Objective: The impact of season on energy expenditure and physical activity is not well quantified. This study focused on summer‐winter differences in total energy expenditure (TEE) and physical activity.

Research Methods and Procedures: Twenty‐five healthy Dutch young adults, living in an urban environment, were measured in the summer season and the winter season. TEE was measured using doubly labeled water, and sleeping metabolic rate (SMR) was measured during an overnight stay in a respiration chamber. Subsequently, the physical activity level (PAL = TEE/SMR) and activity‐related energy expenditure [(0.9 × TEE) − SMR] were calculated. Maximal mechanical power (Wmax) was determined with an incremental test on a cycle ergometer. Body composition was measured with hydrostatic weighing and deuterium dilution using Siri's three‐compartment model.

Results: There was no difference in TEE between seasons. PAL was higher in summer than in winter (1.87 ± 0.22 vs. 1.76 ± 0.18; p < 0.001), and the difference was higher for men than for women (0.20 ± 0.14 vs. 0.05 ± 0.16; p = 0.04). The difference in PAL between seasons was dependent on the initial activity level. There was a strong linear relation (R2 = 0.48) between PAL and physical fitness (Wmax/fat‐free mass), but Wmax/fat‐free mass did not change between seasons in response to the lower PAL in winter.

Discussion: The extent of the changes in PAL is of physiological significance, and seasonality in physical activity should be taken into account when studying physical activity patterns or relationships between physical activity and health.
Target Value of Intraabdominal Fat Area for Improving Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors
Authors: Tanaka Kiyoji , Okura Tomohiro , Shigematsu Ryosuke , Nakata Yoshio , Lee Dong Jun , Wee Seung Wan , Yamabuki Keisuke
Published: April 2008

Objective: The goal of this study was to determine an intraabdominal fat (IF) area target value for improving coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors in response to weight reduction.

Research Methods and Procedures: Subjects were 279 obese Japanese women, 21 to 66 years old, who were divided into diet‐alone and diet‐plus‐exercise groups and participated in a 14‐week weight reduction program. The IF area was measured by computerized tomography scans. Systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mm Hg, diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mm Hg, total cholesterol ≥ 5.70 mM, triglycerides ≥ 1.70 mM, and fasting plasma glucose ≥ 6.99 mM were defined as CHD risk factors.

Results: The best trade‐off between sensitivity (probability of correctly detecting true positive) and specificity (probability of correctly detecting true negative) was found at 100 cm2 pretreatment in combined data of the two groups. At posttreatment, although a slight difference was found in the target value between the treatment groups (60 cm2 for diet alone and 50 cm2 for diet plus exercise), the combined data showed that the best trade‐off occurred at 60 cm2 (sensitivity and specificity were 0.55 and 0.63, respectively). The percentage of subjects having no CHD risk factors was significantly lower in the group that had large IF areas (≥60 cm2) (46%) compared with the group that had normal IF areas (<60 cm2) (65%). However, the percentage of subjects having multiple CHD risk factors was significantly greater in the group that had large IF areas (16%) compared with the group with normal IF areas (7%) at posttreatment.

Discussion: Our longitudinal data suggest that obese Japanese women should reduce their IF areas to <60 cm2 through weight reduction to improve CHD risk factors independent of treatment.
A New Hand‐Held Indirect Calorimeter to Measure Postprandial Energy Expenditure
Authors: St‐Onge Marie‐Pierre , Rubiano Frederick , Jones Alfredo , Heymsfield Steven B.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To verify the accuracy of a new hand‐held metabolic rate measuring device (MedGem) in quantifying postprandial energy expenditure (PP EE). MedGem measurements were compared to measurements obtained with a conventional indirect calorimeter (Delta‐Trac).

Research Methods and Procedures: The resting metabolic rate of 15 healthy subjects was measured for 20 minutes using Delta‐Trac followed by a 10‐minute measurement period using MedGem. EE was again measured for 7 hours after consumption of a 2510‐kJ breakfast. Measurements were read from the Delta‐Trac for the initial 50 minutes of each hour followed by a single reading from the MedGem after 5 to 10 minutes of measurement. Measured EE was calculated as the average of the total measurement period for Delta‐Trac and for eight readings using MedGem; PP EE was calculated as the average of all measurements obtained after breakfast consumption.

Results: There was no difference in resting metabolic rate between the two methods (6455.1 ± 417.6 vs. 6468.5 ± 337.2 kJ/d for Delta‐Trac and MedGem, respectively). Measured EE and PP EE values with Delta‐Trac (7019.1 ± 400.8 and 7099.8 ± 399.2 kJ/d, respectively) and MedGem (6775.6 ± 372.0 and 6819.5 ± 379.9 kJ/d, respectively) were not significantly different. There was no bias detected in any of the measurements made with MedGem compared with those of Delta‐Trac.

Discussion: The new hand‐held EE measuring device can accurately track PP EE relative to a conventional indirect calorimetry system and, therefore, provides a new opportunity to assess PP EE in research settings and large‐scale trials.
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Elderly People in Spain
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Fisac Juan L. , López Esther , Banegas Jose R. , Graciani Auxiliadora , Rodríguez‐Artalejo Fernando
Published: April 2008

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of obesity and overweight in the older adult population in Spain by sex, age, and educational level.

Research Methods and Procedures: A cross‐sectional study was carried out in 2001 in a sample of 4009 persons representative of the noninstitutionalized population ≥60 years of age. Anthropometric measurements (BMI and waist circumference) were obtained using standardized techniques and equipment. Overweight was considered at a BMI of 25 to 29.9 kg/m2 and obesity at a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2. Central obesity was considered at a waist circumference of >102 cm in men and >88 cm in women.

Results: The mean BMI was 28.2 kg/m2 in men and 29.3 kg/m2 in women. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in men was 49% and 31.5%, respectively. The corresponding percentages in women were 39.8% and 40.8%. The prevalence of obesity was higher in persons with no education than in those with third level education (i.e., university studies), especially among women (41.8% vs. 17.5%). The prevalence of central obesity was 48.4% in men and 78.4% in women. Differences by educational level were seen in only women, in whom the prevalence of central obesity was 80.9% in those with no education and 59% in those with third‐level education.

Discussion: The prevalence of overweight and obesity in the Spanish adult elderly population is very high. Some other populations show similar prevalences, especially in Mediterranean countries. Socioeconomic conditions in Spain during the years these cohorts were born may partly explain the high‐frequency of obesity.
Estradiol‐Induced Anorexia Is Independent of Leptin and Melanin‐Concentrating Hormone
Authors: Tritos Nicholas A. , Segal‐Lieberman Gabriella , Vezeridis Peter S. , Maratos‐Flier Eleftheria
Published: April 2008

Objective: Treatment of male rodents with estradiol (E2) is associated with anorexia and weight loss by poorly understood mechanisms. We examined the role of the orexigenic hypothalamic peptide melanin‐concentrating hormone (MCH) and the appetite‐inhibiting, fat‐derived hormone leptin in mediating E2‐induced anorexia.

Research Methods and Procedures: We studied the effect of E2 treatment (implantation of either E2 pellet or matching placebo) in male C57Bl/6J mice, as well as in a lean mouse model (MCH knockout mice) and an obese model (leptin‐deficient ob/ob mice). We also studied the effect of E2 treatment in the context of high‐fat diet.

Results: We confirmed E2 dose‐dependent anorexia in male wild type mice fed a normal chow diet. E2 treatment was associated with a significant decrease in body fat, serum leptin levels, and arcuate hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin expression. E2‐implanted mice also showed increased hypothalamic neuropeptide Y and MCH expression. As MCH has been implicated in E2‐induced hypophagia, we performed E2 pellet implantation in MCH knockout mice and observed hypophagia and weight loss, indicating that MCH is not an essential mediator of E2‐induced anorexia. E2‐implanted ob/ob mice also had hypophagia and weight loss, indicating that leptin is not essential for E2‐induced anorexia. High‐fat diet significantly exacerbated the effect of E2 treatment, leading to a 99.6% decrease in food intake at 48 hours and a 30% loss of body weight within 1 week.

Discussion: The anorectic effects of E2 were independent of MCH and leptin. Our results suggested that E2 may have effects on nutrient preferences.
Childhood Overweight and Academic Performance: National Study of Kindergartners and First‐Graders
Authors: Datar Ashlesha , Sturm Roland , Magnabosco Jennifer L.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To examine the association between children's overweight status in kindergarten and their academic achievement in kindergarten and first grade.

Research Methods and Procedures: The data analyzed consisted of 11, 192 first time kindergartners from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, a nationally representative sample of kindergartners in the U.S. in 1998. Multivariate regression techniques were used to estimate the independent association of overweight status with children's math and reading standardized test scores in kindergarten and grade 1. We controlled for socioeconomic status, parent‐child interaction, birth weight, physical activity, and television watching.

Results: Overweight children had significantly lower math and reading test scores compared with nonoverweight children in kindergarten. Both groups were gaining similarly on math and reading test scores, resulting in significantly lower test scores among overweight children at the end of grade 1. However, these differences, except for boys’ math scores at baseline (difference = 1.22 points, p = 0.001), became insignificant after including socioeconomic and behavioral variables, indicating that overweight is a marker but not a causal factor. Race/ethnicity and mother's education were stronger predictors of test score gains or levels than overweight status.

Discussion: Significant differences in test scores by overweight status at the beginning of kindergarten and the end of grade 1 can be explained by other individual characteristics, including parental education and the home environment. However, overweight is more easily observable by other students compared with socioeconomic characteristics, and its significant (unadjusted) association with worse academic performance can contribute to the stigma of overweight as early as the first years of elementary school.
Adipose Tissue Transcriptome by Serial Analysis of Gene Expression
Authors: Bolduc Carl , Larose Marianne , Lafond Nicolas , Yoshioka Mayumi , Rodrigue Marc‐André , Morissette Jean , Labrie Claude , Raymond Vincent , St‐Amand Jonny
Published: April 2008

Objectives: To describe the genomic expression profile or transcriptome of adipose tissue using the serial analysis of gene expression method.

Research Methods and Procedures: The serial analysis of gene expression strategy is based on isolation of short sequences (tags), which usually correspond to unique transcripts, and on their concatenation into long DNA molecules, which are then cloned and sequenced. Experiments were performed with mRNA from retroperitoneal adipose tissue of male C57BL6 mice.

Results: We isolated 45, 996 tags corresponding to more than 17, 000 different genes. Eighty‐eight genes were expressed at more than 0.1% of the total population and represented 26% of the mRNA population identified. The most expressed genes were: carbonic anhydrase 3 (1.97%), cytochrome c oxidase (COX) 1 (1.47%), COX2 (1.25%), diazepam binding inhibitor (1.04%), a novel transcript (0.87%), COX3 (0.55%), fatty acid‐binding protein 4 (0.55%), and NADH dehydrogenase 4 (0.52%). Other genes known to be expressed in adipose tissue, such as uncoupling protein 2, angiotensinogen, adipsin, and insulin‐like growth factor 1, were found at a lower level. Several tags corresponding to novel transcripts were also found.

Discussion: To our knowledge, the present results provide for the first time a quantitative description of the transcriptome in adipose tissue.
Effects of Weight Loss and Physical Activity on Muscle Lipid Content and Droplet Size
Authors: He Jing , Goodpaster Bret H. , Kelley David E.
Published: April 2008

Objectives: To address the potential effects of weight loss and physical activity (WL + Ex) on intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) and lipid droplet size in overweight and obese previously sedentary individuals.

Research Methods and Procedures: IMCL and lipid droplet size was determined in vastus lateralis, obtained by percutaneous biopsy, from 21 obese volunteers (9 men/12 women), using Oil Red O staining, along with succinate dehydrogenase histochemistry and mitochondrial immunohistochemistry as measures of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. Insulin sensitivity (IS) was determined by glucose clamp.

Results: A 4‐month WL + Ex intervention resulted in ∼10% WL and ∼15% increase in maximal oxygen uptake, leading to a 46% increase in IS (all p < 0.01). IMCL did not significantly change (p = 0.36). However, the size of lipid droplets decreased after WL + Ex (p < 0.01), and this decrease in lipid droplet size correlated with increased IS (p < 0.01) and the amount of physical activity (p < 0.05). Succinate dehydrogenase activity and mitochondrial labeling increased significantly (p < 0.01), without a significant shift in fiber type distribution.

Discussion: In summary, IMCL does not decrease in response to WL + Ex in obese, previously sedentary individuals, yet the lipid within muscle is dispersed into smaller droplets. This change in the size of lipid droplets, likely coupled with a concomitant increase in oxidative enzyme capacity, is correlated to improved IS.
A Human Adenovirus Enhances Preadipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Vangipuram Sharada D. , Sheele Jonathan , Atkinson Richard L. , Holland Thomas C. , Dhurandhar Nikhil V.
Published: April 2008

Objectives: Adenovirus 36 (Ad‐36) has been shown to increase adiposity in experimentally infected chickens, mice, and marmosets (nonhuman primates). Neutralizing antibodies to Ad‐36 are associated with obesity in humans. The metabolic and molecular mechanisms responsible for Ad‐36‐induced adipogenesis are unknown. As a potential adipogenic mechanism, this study examined if Ad‐36 enhanced differentiation of preadipocytes.

Research Methods and Procedures: To determine the suitability of 3T3‐L1 cells (murine preadipocyte cell line) as a model, the first experiment determined if Ad‐36 attaches and initiates replication in the cells. Next, effects of Ad‐36 on the number of differentiated adipocytes, glycerol 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) levels, and cellular lipid accumulation were determined. The last experiment determined the effect of Ad‐36 on human primary preadipocyte differentiation. Ad‐2, a known nonadipogenic human adenovirus, was used as a negative control in these experiments.

Results: Immunofluorescence studies showed adenoviral attachment to 3T3‐L1 cells, and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction showed expression of the Ad‐36 E1A gene in the infected cells. Ad‐36, but not Ad‐2, increased the number of differentiated adipocytes, GPDH enzyme levels, and the total cellular lipid content. Also, Ad‐36, but not Ad‐2, increased GPDH levels in human preadipocytes.

Discussion: Taken together, these experiments showed that Ad‐36 enhanced differentiation of preadipocytes, which may be a contributory mechanism to its adipogenic effect in vivo. The lack of effect of Ad‐2 on differentiation demonstrated that the observed findings were not a common characteristic of all adenoviruses. Future understanding of the molecular interactions of cellular and viral genes responsible for enhanced differentiation may reveal novel signaling pathways and controls of preadipocyte differentiation.
Sugar‐Added Beverages and Adolescent Weight Change
Authors: Berkey Catherine S. , Rockett Helaine R.H. , Field Alison E. , Gillman Matthew W. , Colditz Graham A.
Published: April 2008

Objectives: The increase in consumption of sugar‐added beverages over recent decades may be partly responsible for the obesity epidemic among U.S. adolescents. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between BMI changes and intakes of sugar‐added beverages, milk, fruit juices, and diet soda.

Research Methods and Procedures: Our prospective cohort study included >10, 000 boys and girls participating in the U.S. Growing Up Today Study. The participants were 9 to 14 years old in 1996 and completed questionnaires in 1996, 1997, and 1998. We analyzed change in BMI (kilograms per meter squared) over two 1‐year periods among children who completed annual food frequency questionnaires assessing typical past year intakes. We studied beverage intakes during the year corresponding to each BMI change, and in separate models, we studied 1‐year changes in beverage intakes, adjusting for prior year intakes. Models included all beverages simultaneously; further models adjusted for total energy intake.

Results: Consumption of sugar‐added beverages was associated with small BMI gains during the corresponding year (boys: +0.03 kg/m2 per daily serving, p = 0.04; girls: +0.02 kg/m2, p = 0.096). In models not assuming a linear dose‐response trend, girls who drank 1 serving/d of sugar‐added beverages gained more weight (+0.068, p = 0.02) than girls drinking none, as did girls drinking 2 servings/d (+0.09, p = 0.06) or 3+ servings/d (+0.08, p = 0.06). Analyses of year‐to‐year change in beverage intakes provided generally similar findings; boys who increased consumption of sugar‐added beverages from the prior year experienced weight gain (+0.04 kg/m2 per additional daily serving, p = 0.01). Children who increased intakes by 2 or more servings/d from the prior year gained weight (boys: +0.14, p = 0.01; girls +0.10, p = 0.046). Further adjusting our models for total energy intake substantially reduced the estimated effects, which were no longer significant.

Discussion: Consumption of sugar‐added beverages may contribute to weight gain among adolescents, probably due to their contribution to total energy intake, because adjustment for calories greatly attenuated the estimated associations.
Association Between Body Fat Response to Exercise Training and Multilocus ADR Genotypes
Authors: Phares Dana A. , Halverstadt Amy A. , Shuldiner Alan R. , Ferrell Robert E. , Douglass Larry W. , Ryan Alice S. , Goldberg Andrew P. , Hagberg James M.
Published: April 2008

Objectives: To examine the contribution of adrenergic receptor (ADR) gene polymorphisms and their gene‐gene interactions to the variability of exercise training‐induced body fat response.

Research Methods and Procedures: This was an intervention study that used a volunteer sample of 70 healthy, sedentary men (n = 29) and postmenopausal women (n = 41) 50 to 75 years of age, with a BMI ≤37 kg/m2, from the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. Participants completed 6 weeks of dietary stabilization (American Heart Association diet) before 24 weeks of supervised aerobic exercise training. Diet was maintained throughout the intervention. Change in percent total body fat, percent trunk fat, and fat mass by DXA in ADR genotype groups (Glu12/Glu9 α2b‐ADR, Trp64Arg β3‐ADR, and Gln27Glu β2‐ADR) at baseline and after 24 weeks of aerobic exercise training was measured.

Results: In multivariate analysis (covariates: age, gender, and baseline value of phenotype), best fit models for percent total body and trunk fat response to exercise training retained main effects of all three ADR gene loci and the effects of each gene‐gene interaction (p = 0.009 and 0.003, respectively). Similarly, there was a trend for the fat mass response model (p = 0.03). The combined genetic factors explained 17.5% of the overall model variability for percent total body fat, 22% for percent trunk fat, and 10% for fat mass.

Discussion: The body fat response to exercise training in older adults is associated with the combined effects of the Glu12/Glu9 α2b‐, Trp64Arg β3‐, and Gln27Glu β2‐ADR gene variants and their gene‐gene interactions.
Energetic Cost and Preferred Speed of Walking in Obese vs. Normal Weight Women
Authors: Browning Raymond C. , Kram Rodger
Published: April 2008

Objective: We tested the hypotheses that walking is more expensive for obese women, and they prefer slower walking speeds that minimize the gross energy cost per distance despite a greater relative aerobic effort [percent of maximal oxygen uptake (V˙o2max)/kg].

Research Methods and Procedures: Twenty adult women, 10 obese (BMI = 34.1 ± 3.2 kg/m2) and 10 normal weight (BMI = 20.4 ± 2.1 kg/m2) volunteered. To determine the metabolic rate and energy cost per distance vs. speed relationships, we measuredV˙o2andV˙CO2while subjects walked on a treadmill at six speeds (0.50, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, and 1.75 m/s; 5‐minute trials, with a 5‐minute rest period between trials). We measured preferred walking speed on a 50‐m section of level sidewalk andV˙o2maxusing a modified Balke treadmill protocol.

Results: Walking was 11% more expensive for the obese subjects, but they preferred to walk at similar speeds as normal weight subjects (1.40 vs. 1.47 m/s,p= 0.07). Both groups preferred walking speeds at which their gross energy cost per distance was almost minimized. Obese subjects had a smallerV˙o2max/kg, so they required a greater relative aerobic effort at the preferred speed (51% vs. 36%,p= 0.001).

Discussion: Obese women preferred a walking speed that minimized energy cost per distance, even though this strategy required a greater relative aerobic effort than walking more slowly. Our results suggest that walking slower for a set distance may be an appropriate exercise recommendation for a weight management prescription in obese adults.
Family Dinner and Adolescent Overweight
Authors: Taveras Elsie M. , Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl L. , Berkey Catherine S. , Rockett Helaine R.H. , Field Alison E. , Frazier A. Lindsay , Colditz Graham A. , Gillman Matthew W.
Published: April 2008

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine both cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations between frequency of family dinner and overweight status in a large sample of 9‐ to 14‐year‐old children.

Research Methods and Procedures: We studied a cohort of 7784 girls and 6647 boys, 9 to 14 years of age at baseline in 1996, participating in the Growing Up Today Study. From annual mailed surveys, we calculated BMI from self‐reported height and weight and assessed frequency of family dinner over the previous year. We defined “overweight” as age‐ and sex‐specific BMI >85th percentile. We performed multiple logistic regression analyses; the longitudinal analyses assessed the association of previous year family dinner consumption with 1‐year incidence of becoming overweight, using prospective data from 1996 through 1999.

Results: At baseline in 1996, 16% of participants had family dinner “never or some days,” 40% on “most days,” and 44% “every day.” Across these categories, overweight prevalence for girls was 19.4%, 16.6%, and 16.7% and for boys was 24.6%, 23.3%, and 22.7%, respectively. In cross‐sectional analyses, adjusting for potential confounders, the odds of being overweight was 0.85 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.76, 0.96] among children who ate family dinner on “most days” or “every day” compared with those who ate family dinner “never or some days.” In longitudinal multivariate models, the odds ratios between previous year frequency of eating family dinner and 1‐year incidence of becoming overweight were 0.95 (95% CI: 0.78, 1.16) and 1.04 (95% CI: 0.85, 1.27) for children who ate family dinner on “most days” and “every day,” respectively, compared with those who ate family dinner “never or some days.”

Discussion: The frequency of eating family dinner was inversely associated with overweight prevalence at baseline but not with likelihood of becoming overweight in longitudinal analyses.
Weight Stigmatization and Ideological Beliefs: Relation to Psychological Functioning in Obese Adults
Authors: Friedman Kelli E. , Reichmann Simona K. , Costanzo Philip R. , Zelli Arnaldo , Ashmore Jamile A. , Musante Gerard J.
Published: April 2008

Objective: This study evaluated the relation among weight‐based stigmatization, ideological beliefs about weight, and psychological functioning in an obese, treatment‐seeking sample.

Research Methods and Procedure: Ninety‐three obese, treatment‐seeking adults (24 men and 69 women) completed a battery of self‐report questionnaires measuring psychological adjustment, attitudes about weight, belief in the controllability of weight, and the frequency of weight‐based stigmatization.

Results: Weight‐based stigmatization was a common experience for participants. Frequency of stigmatizing experiences was positively associated with depression, general psychiatric symptoms, and body image disturbance, and negatively associated with self‐esteem. Further, participants’ own negative attitudes about weight problems were associated with their psychological distress and moderated the relation between the experience of stigmatization and body image.

Discussion: Weight‐based stigmatization is a common experience for obese individuals seeking weight loss treatment and appears to contribute to poor mental health adjustment. The negative effects of these experiences are particularly damaging for those who hold strong antifat beliefs.