A Visualization Analysis of Hotspots and Frontiers in Obesity-Related Executive Functions Research

A Bibliometric Study

Abstract

Objective. This study aims  to provide a visual analysis of the research hotspots and frontiers in the field of obesity-related executive functions using bibliometric methods.

Methodology. Our analysis is based on 5814 English-language documents retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace 6.2.R4 software was utilized to conduct the bibliometric analysis. The study examines the trends, key players, and thematic evolution in obesity-related executive function research over the past decade.

Results. The number of publications in this domain has exhibited a steady linear growth trend, with American institutions and scholars leading in research contributions. The current research focus encompasses co-occurrence and cluster analysis of keywords and references, as well as the brain and associated cognitive functions. Our bibliometric analysis reveals a shift in focus towards the brain, cognition, executive functions, the prefrontal cortex and other related topics in obese individuals, in addition to established areas such as metabolic syndromes, insulin resistance, diabetes, gut microbiota, and dietary intake.

Conclusion. This study highlights new entry points for aspiring researchers in the field of obesity and executive functions. Future research directions may include a deeper exploration of the relationship between obesity and specific components of executive functions, such as working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and planning.