Higher Weight Gain Rate Research Articles

Topical emollient for preventing infection in preterm infants.

Breakdown of the developmentally immature epidermal barrier may permit entry for micro-organisms leading to invasive infection in preterm infants. Topical emollients may improve skin integrity and barrier function and thereby prevent invasive infection, a major cause of mortality and morbidity in preterm infants. To assess the effect of topical application of emollients (ointments, creams, or oils) on the incidence of invasive infection, other morbidity, and mortality in preterm infants. We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review group to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2015, Issue 7), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to August 2015), EMBASE (1980 to August 2015), and CINAHL (1982 to August 2015). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, previous reviews and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials. Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of prophylactic application of topical emollient (ointments, creams, or oils) on the incidence of invasive infection, mortality, other morbidity, and growth and development in preterm infants. Two review authors assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias and undertook data extraction independently. We analysed the treatment effects in the individual trials and reported the risk ratio and risk difference for dichotomous data and mean difference for continuous data, with respective 95% confidence intervals. We used a fixed-effect model in meta-analyses and explored the potential causes of heterogeneity in subgroup analyses. We identified 18 eligible primary publications (21 trial reports). A total of 3089 infants participated in the trials. The risk of bias varied with lack of clarity on methods to conceal allocation in half of the trials and lack of blinding of caregivers or investigators in all of the trials being the main potential sources of bias.Eight trials (2086 infants) examined the effect of topical ointments or creams. Most participants were very preterm infants cared for in health-care facilities in high-income countries. Meta-analyses did not show evidence of a difference in the incidence of invasive infection (typical risk ratio (RR) 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.97 to 1.31; low quality evidence) or mortality (typical RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.03; low quality evidence).Eleven trials (1184 infants) assessed the effect of plant or vegetable oils. Nine of these trials were undertaken in low- or middle-income countries and all were based in health-care facilities rather than home or community settings. Meta-analyses did not show evidence of a difference in the incidence of invasive infection (typical RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51 to 1.01; low quality evidence) or mortality (typical RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.08; moderate quality evidence). Infants massaged with vegetable oil had a higher rate of weight gain (about 2.55 g/kg/day; 95% CI 1.76 to 3.34), linear growth (about 1.22 mm/week; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.44), and head growth (about 0.45 mm/week; 95% CI 0.19 to 0.70). These meta-analyses contained substantial heterogeneity. The available data do not provide evidence that the use of emollient therapy prevents invasive infection or death in preterm infants in high-, middle- or low-income settings. Some evidence of an effect of topical vegetable oils on neonatal growth exists but this should be interpreted with caution because lack of blinding may have introduced caregiver or assessment biases. Since these interventions are low cost, readily accessible, and generally acceptable, further randomised controlled trials, particularly in both community- and health care facility-based settings in low-income countries, may be justified.

Dietary copper requirement of juvenile Russian sturgeon Acipenser gueldenstaedtii

To quantify the dietary copper (Cu) requirement of Russian sturgeon Acipenser gueldenstaedtii, copper sulfate (CuSO4·5H2O) was added into the basal semi-purified diet at seven levels 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 16mgCukg−1 diet yielding the actual dietary values of 0.3, 1.5, 2.4, 4.4, 6.2, 8.3 and 16.1mgCukg−1 diet, respectively. Each diet was fed to sturgeon (11.84±0.07g) in triplicate in a flow-through system for 8weeks. The Cu concentration in the rearing water was 0.8–1.2μgL−1 during the trial period. The weight gain rate (WGR) and feed efficiency were significantly higher in fish fed 2.4 to 8.3mgCukg−1 than those fed 0.3, 1.5 or 16.1mgCukg−1. The highest WGR was found in fish fed 6.2mgCukg−1. The whole-body Cu concentrations were highest in fish fed 6.2 to 16.1mgCukg−1. The liver Cu concentration was highest in fish fed 16.1mgCukg−1 diet and lowest in fish fed diets Cu levels range from 0.3 to 4.4mgCukg−1. Hepatic copper–zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu–Zn SOD) activities, total antioxidant capacity and serum ceruloplasmin activity were significantly higher in fish fed 6.2 and 8.3mgCukg−1 diet than those in other treatments. The lowest hepatic malondialdehyde values were observed in fish fed 6.2 and 8.3mgCukg−1. No significant differences were in survival, hepatosomatic index, viscerosomatic index and condition factor among all the treatments. There were also no significant differences in whole body moisture, crude protein, crude lipid and ash between all the treatments. Analysis of broken-line regression based on the WGR, whole-body Cu concentration, hepatic Cu–Zn SOD and serum ceruloplasmin activity of the fish fed different diets indicates that the minimum Cu concentration in the semi-purified diet for juvenile Russian sturgeon (12–70g) is at 7–8mgkg−1. Statement of relevanceThe dietary copper (Cu) requirement of juvenile Russian sturgeon was investigated. Dietary Cu deficiency and over-loading significantly reduced growth, feed utilization and antioxidant capacity. The results suggest that the appropriate dietary Cu content is considerable in Russian sturgeon farming. Minimum dietary Cu level for this species is recommend as 7–8mgCukg−1 in this study. These information will be useful in developing a practical diet for Russian sturgeon culture.

Effects of different dietary lipid sources on growth performance, tissue fatty acid composition and serum lipid indices of juvenile Amur sturgeon, Acipenser schrenckii Brandt, 1869

Summary The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of different dietary lipid sources on the growth performance, tissue fatty acid composition and serum lipids indices of juvenile Acipenser schrenckii. Seven experimental diets were formulated with 10% lipid originating from fish oil (FO), sunflower oil (SFO), tallow oil (TO), pork lard (PL), rapeseed oil (RO), corn oil (CO) and soybean oil (SBO), respectively. Triplicate groups of 20 Amur sturgeon [initial body weight (9.83 ± 0.19) g; means ± SD] were cultured in 405-L flow-through aquaria and assigned to the experimental diets for 8 weeks. Results showed that fish fed the SBO diet had the highest weight gain rate (611.29%), significantly higher than that of fish fed the FO (539.14%), CO (540.56%) or SFO (451.27%, the lowest) diet (P 0.05). Fish fed the PL diet had the highest moisture and lipid contents in muscle, while fish fed the TO diet had the highest protein content in muscle. In summary, the lipid sources used in this test (excepting SFO) can be deemed as suitable for Amur sturgeon, the effect of SBO being the best. SFO is not recommended as a supplement in the Amur sturgeon diet.

Comparison of the culture performance and profitability of wild-caught and captive pond-reared Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) juveniles reared in grow-out ponds: Implications for seed selection and genetic selection programs

Abstract The Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, is a commercially important freshwater crab with a high market value in East Asian countries. The farming of E. sinensis has undergone rapid development in China. Generally, ponds are stocked from two seedstock sources, captive pond-reared juveniles (coin-sized seed, PR) or wild-caught seedstock of E. sinensis (WC). Anecdotally, WC stocks are preferred as they are thought to perform better in culture compared with PR stocks. However, the availability and low cost of PR seedstock have resulted in this becoming the dominant seedstock for production, despite a lack of selective breeding programs. We compared the growth, gonadal development, survival, crab yield, feed conversion rate (FCR), size distribution, and profit between WC and PR populations of E. sinensis seedstock from the Yangtze basin that were cultured in commercial-sized production ponds. The PR had a higher body weight, weight gain rate (WGR), and specific growth rate (SGR) than the WC during the mid-period of the study (July to August) whereas WC had a higher WGR and SGR than PR during the latter part of the study (September to October). Regardless of sex, PR commenced their puberty molt and gonadal development earlier than WC, which resulted in PR having a significantly higher gonadosomatic index (GSI) than WC during the periods between September and November. WC had the higher survival and crab yield, and a lower FCR at the end of the study, though the differences were not significant. However, the proportion of larger sized male or female adults was higher in WC (male ≥ 225 g/crab; female ≥ 125 g/crab) than in PR. The cost of purchasing and feeding WC seedstock was greater than that of the PR seedstock, however the return-on-investment (ROI) for WC seedstock was higher because of higher yield and the higher price for larger crabs. Despite having better culture performance and greater ROI from stocking WC crabs, this source of seedstock is not sustainable for the E. sinensis farming industry because of the variable quantity, high seed cost, and very limited natural seedstock resources in the Yangtze River. Thus, there is a need for genetic-improvement breeding programs focused on the establishment of captive stocks to obtain desirable traits, such as larger harvest size, low FCR, and delayed onset of maturity in E. sinensis.

Effect of various Na/K ratios in low-salinity well water on growth performance and physiological response of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei

To investigate the influence of sodium to potassium (Na/K) ratios on the growth performance and physiological response of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vananmei), various concentrations of KCl were added to low-salinity well water (salinity 4) in an 8-week culture trial. Six treatments with Na/K ratios of 60:1, 42:1, 33:1, 23:1, 17:1, and 14:1 were replicated in triplicate. The highest weight-gain rate (3 506±48)% and survival rate (89.38±0.88)% was observed in well water with Na/K ratios of 23:1 and 42:1, respectively, while the feed conversion ratio (1.02±0.01), oxygen consumption, and ammonia-N excretion rate was the lowest in the medium with a Na/K ratio of 23:1. Gill Na+-K+-ATPase activity, as an indicator of osmoregulation, peaked in the treatment where the Na/K ratio was 17:1. The total hemocyte count, respiratory burst, and immune-related enzyme activities (ALP, LSZ, PO, and SOD) of L. vananmei were affected significantly by Na/K ratios (P<0.05). After challenged with Vibrio harveyi, the cumulative mortality of shrimp reared in a Na/K ratio of 23:1 (30±14.14)% was significantly lower than the control (75±7.07)%. In conclusion, the addition of K+ to low-salinity well water in L. vannamei cultures is feasible. Na/K ratios ranging from 23:1 to 33:1 might improve survival and growth. Immunity and disease resistance are also closely related to the Na/K ratio of the low-salinity well water. The findings may contribute to the development of more efficient K + remediation strategies for L. vananmei culture in low-salinity well water.

Effects of Dietary Protein and Temperature on Growth and Flesh Quality of Songpu Mirror Carp

The study was conducted to demonstrate the effects of dietary protein and water temperature on growth and flesh quality of Songpu mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio) at an initial weight (165.24±5.08) g. Practical diets were formulated to contain five protein levels (29.12%, 31.46%, 34.49%, 38.17%, and 40.13%), and each diet was randomly assigned triplicate groups of 15 fishes at three temperatures (18°C, 22°C, and 26°C) in the recirculation system. Fishes were fed twice daily to apparent satiation for 56 days. Results indicated that fishes had higher weight gain rate at 22°C and 26°C than that at 18°C (P<0.05), but there were no significant differences between 22°C and 26°C (P>0.05). Based on the weight gain rate, dietary protein level 29.12% could meet the requirement of the body at 18°C, 22°C, or 26°C. Crude protein, crude lipid, moisture and ash of muscle had no significant differences among those treatments (P>0.05). pH (after 24 h) of muscle was the highest at 18°C and the lowest at 22°C (P<0.05), but no differences were observed among different protein level groups at each temperature (P>0.05). No significant differences on shear force, water holding capacity, collagen, glycogen and lactate among all the treatments were found (P>0.05). It was concluded that when C. carpio fed to apparent satiation, the growth mainly depended upon temperature. Dietary protein could not significantly affect flesh quality, but temperature significantly affected pH of muscles. A dietary protein level 29.12% could meet the requirement of the body at 18°C, 22°C, or 26°C.

Who develops carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy: An analysis of obesity, gestational weight gain, and parity

To examine the prevalence, onset, and risk factors of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy. Maternal electronic medical records were linked to birth certificate records using social security number. The outcome of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy was defined as ICD9 code 354.0 given at a prenatal visit. Chi-square, t-test, and adjusted logistic regression were performed. We analyzed 17,623 prenatal visits from the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania from 1/2003-12/2007. Mean maternal age was 26.4 (6.5) years, with 21% white, 69% black, and 46% overweight or obese. Ninety-one (2.8%) mothers participated in 765 prenatal visits given a carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis code. Compared to mothers without carpal tunnel syndrome, mothers with carpal tunnel syndrome were older (29.72 (5.42) versus 26.04 (6.37) years, p = 0.005), gained more weight during pregnancy (40.65 (10.13) pounds versus 34.2 (9.41) pounds, p = 0.04), and more likely to have college education (69.9% versus 44.5%, p = 0.03). Average onset (SD) of carpal tunnel syndrome was 18.1 (8.4) weeks' gestation. Mothers with carpal tunnel syndrome had high rates of overweight, obesity, and excessive gestational weight gain. Diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome was rare but often occurred in the first and second trimesters, earlier than the frequently reported third trimester onset seen in literature. When looking at predictors of carpal tunnel syndrome, obese prepregnancy body mass index (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2)) and excessive gestational weight gain, greater than two previous live births, higher level of maternal education and more prenatal care (>10 visits) were associated with increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Higher maternal age was not associated with carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis after adjusting for weight and parity, suggesting mediation by these covariates.

Effects of Antibacterial Peptide Extracted from Bacillus subtilis fmbJ on the Growth, Physiological Response and Disease Resistance of Megalobrama amblycephala

The effects of an antibacterial peptide obtained from Bacillus subtilis fmbJ on growth, serum lysozyme complements 3 and 4, total protein content, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total antioxidative capacity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and disease resistance of Wuchang bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) were examined. Fish were randomly divided into five groups: a control group which was fed a basic diet, and four groups fed the basic diet supplemented with 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%, or 0.8% antibacterial peptide. At eight weeks, M. amblycephala fed the diet containing 0.2% antibacterial peptide had higher serum lysozyme activity, complement 3 and 4 contents, and SOD activity than the control fish, but lower serum MDA content and AST activity. Fish fed the 0.4% diet had higher weight gain rate, serum lysozyme activity, complement 4 content, total antioxidative capacity, and total protein than the control, and lower serum ALT activity. Feed conversion ratios of fish fed the 0.2% or 0.4% diets were lower than those of control fish. Artificial infection with Aeromonas hydrophila resulted in 93% cumulative mortality in the control group, and 61-84% in the groups fed the 0.2% or 0.4% diets. The present study suggests that feed supplementation with 0.2-0.4% antibacterial peptides can stimulate immunity, increase resistance to pathogenic infection, and promote growth in M. amblycephala.

The influence of various feeding patterns of emodin on growth, non-specific immune responses, and disease resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila in juvenile Wuchang bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of various feeding patterns of emodin on growth, non-specific immune response, and disease resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila in juvenile Wuchang bream. Healthy Megalobrama amblycephala (initial weight: 3.47 ± 0.032) were grown in a circulating water system for 8 weeks. Five groups were studied: one control group was fed with a basal diet for eight weeks (Pattern 1, P1), and three treatment groups were fed with a trial diet of 30 mg emodin kg−1 at one-week (Pattern 2, P2), two-week (Pattern 3, P3), four-week (Pattern 4, P4) intervals. The final treatment group maintained the trial diet for the entire eight-week study duration (Pattern 5, P5). Results indicated that different feeding patterns of emodin significantly influenced the weight gain rate of Wuchang bream (P < 0.05). Fish in the P4 treatment group had significantly higher rates of weight gain (WG) than those in other treatment groups. There were no significant differences in survival rates or feed conversion ratios (FCR) between treatment groups and the control group. White blood cell count (WBC), respiratory burst activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) activity were shown to increase at first and then decrease from P3 condition to P5 condition. Fish under P4 treatment showed the most significant improvement of all tested parameters compared to control. Significantly higher levels (P < 0.05) of plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity were observed in P2 and P4 treatment groups when compared with the control group, while no significant differences were observed in the AST and ALT activity of fish in P2, P3, P4 and P5 treatment groups. In a bacterial challenge experiment with A. hydrophila, fish under P4 and P5 treatment showed lower cumulative mortality than the control group. The results of this study suggest that an initial 4-week feeding interval is recommended for the economic and practical culture of M. amblycephala.

Physical activity and gestational weight gain in Hispanic women

ObjectiveHispanic women have high rates of excessive and inadequate gestational weight gain (GWG) according to Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines. Observational studies suggest that physical activity may be associated with GWG but have been conflicting and were largely conducted in non-Hispanic white populations.Design and MethodsWe prospectively evaluated the association between physical activity and compliance with GWG guidelines, total GWG, and rate of GWG among 1,276 Hispanic participants in Proyecto Buena Salud, a cohort study in Western Massachusetts. The Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess pre, early, mid, and late pregnancy physical activity according to both intensity (i.e., sedentary, moderate, and vigorous) and type (i.e., housework/caregiving, occupational, and sports/exercise).ResultsA total of 26.9% of women gained within IOM guidelines, 21.2% had inadequate GWG, and 51.9% experienced excessive GWG. Overall, we did not observe statistically significant associations between type or intensity of physical activity during pre, early, mid, and late pregnancy and inadequate or excessive GWG, total GWG, or rate of GWG.ConclusionsIn this prospective cohort study of Hispanic women, after controlling for important risk factors, pregnancy physical activity did not appear to be associated with GWG.

Fat utilization and arterial hypertension in overweight/obese subjects

BackgroundThe Respiratory Quotient is a parameter reflecting the utilization of the nutrients by a subject. It is associated with an high rate of subsequent weight gain and with the atherosclerosis. Subjects tending to burn less fat have an increased Respiratory Quotient. Aim of this study was to investigate on the relationship between the Respiratory Quotient and the cardiovascular risk factors.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study we enrolled 223 individuals of both sexes aged 45–75 ys that were weight stable, receiving a balanced diet, and not affected by debilitating disease or cardiovascular disease. The Respiratory Quotient was measured by Indirect Calorimetry. The measurement of the Blood Pressure was obtained by a mercury sphygmomanometer.ResultsWe enrolled 133 female and 90 male. Systolic blood pressure only was positively correlated to the Respiratory Quotient in univariate and multivariate regression analysis (p=0,017). The prevalence of hypertension was significatively different between the quartiles of the Respiratory Quotient, with the highest prevalence in the IV quartile (p=0,024).ConclusionHigh value of the Respiratory Quotient, an index of nutrients utilization, is associated to an high prevalence of Hypertension. It is possible that in the subjects with high Respiratory Quotient and high body mass index, the activation of the renin angiotensin system, in concert to the reduction of the utilization of the endogenous fat stores, could increase the risk of hypertension.

Differences in Body Composition and Resting Energy Expenditure in Childhood in Preterm Children Born with Very Low Birth Weight

Background: Rapid early ponderal growth is associated with adverse metabolic risks in young adults born at term. Aim: To determine whether there are differences in body composition, resting energy expenditure (REE) and metabolic variables between preterm children born with very low birth weight (VLBW) either appropriate (AGA) or small (SGA) for gestational age and whether these differences are related to an early period of weight gain. Methods: 67 VLBW preterm (40 AGA, 27 SGA). Body composition by DEXA, REE by indirect calorimetry and blood sampling at age 6.7 ± 0.5 years. Results: VLBW SGA children were lighter, shorter, had a lower waist and hip circumference, HDL cholesterol and lipid oxidation rates than their AGA counterparts (adjusted for age, sex and BMI). Birth weight correlated negatively with total body and trunk fat mass. In a multivariate linear regression analysis, we found a positive association between weight gain in the first 3 months of life and total and trunk fat at age 6 years and a reciprocal association with REE at age 6 years. In contrast, the weight gain rate at 6-9 months of life was associated with higher REE and lipid oxidation rates at 6 years. A higher weight gain rate at 9-12 months was associated with a higher lean mass at 6 years. Conclusion: An early fast-pace weight gain in VLBW infants may have detrimental consequences for metabolic health later on.

The impact of preschool feeding programmes on the growth of disadvantaged young children in developing countries: a systematic review of randomised trials

Background: Childhood malnutrition in developing countries contributes to developmental delays, as well as increased morbidity and mortality. The effectiveness of feeding programmes as a strategy to improve childhood malnutrition has been questioned.Objective: A systematic review was undertaken to examine the effectiveness of preschool feeding programmes in fostering the growth of children in developing countries.Design: A systematic literature search was undertaken to identify published studies that related to the objective. Studies had to be randomised intervention studies that reported on the growth outcomes of children from birth to six years of age in order to be included.Setting: An initial literature search yielded 59 studies, of which 44 were excluded based on initial screening. Five more were omitted based on detailed data extraction. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The results of these studies were compared and narratively described in the context of the objective.Results: The studies showed a great level of heterogeneity with regard to sample characteristics, intervention and reporting of results. In the context of recovery from malnutrition, most studies reported there to be a positive effect from feeding programmes. In studies that reported on weight gain, those that employed a supervised intake of food supplements resulted in higher rates of weight gain. Micronutrient fortification was described as having a positive influence on the rate of linear growth in studies that reported on linear growth. Intensive nutrition education aimed at mothers and caregivers is a sustainable way in which to change child feeding behaviour and may contribute to the effectiveness of nutrition intervention.Conclusion: The limitations of the study included the following: there was a low number (59) of identified studies in the initial search because of the use of limited search terms, assessment of risk of bias was carried out by only one reviewer using a self-designed grading system, there were high levels of heterogeneity, and less than half of the individual studies were rated to be of a high quality. In view of these limitations, no firm conclusion can be drawn. Additional research, aimed at determining the impact of supplementary feeding programmes in supporting the growth of disadvantaged children, is encouraged.

Perinatal outcomes and gestational weight gain in women with eating disorders: a population‐based cohort study

To investigate adverse perinatal outcomes and gestational weight gain trajectories in women with lifetime (current/past) eating disorders (ED: anorexia nervosa [AN] and bulimia nervosa [BN]). A longitudinal population-based birth cohort. Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Women who enrolled prenatally, had complete information on exposure (lifetime ED), and gave birth to a live singleton (n = 5256). Four groups of exposed women: lifetime AN (n = 129), lifetime BN (n = 209), lifetime AN + BN (n = 100), other lifetime psychiatric disorder (n = 1002) were compared with unexposed women (n = 3816). Perinatal outcomes and gestational weight gain were obtained from obstetric and midwifery records, self-report and objective measurements. Exposed women were compared with unexposed women within the cohort using linear, logistic regression and mixed models. Any pregnancy, delivery and postnatal complications. Birthweight adjusted for gestational age, prematurity (born <37 weeks), small-for-gestational age; maternal weight gain during pregnancy. Maternal AN was positively associated with suspected fetal distress. No differences were found in mean birthweight, prevalence of a small-for-gestational-age, or premature birth. Relative to unexposed women, women with AN had, on average, a lower body weight but a higher rate of weight gain subsequently; whereas women with BN had a higher body weight but a lower rate of weight gain. Maternal lifetime ED is associated with few adverse perinatal outcomes in this sample. Differential gestational weight gain patterns in women with AN and BN are consistent with possible biological compensatory mechanisms aimed at protecting the fetus.

Digestion, growth and reproductive performance of the zoophytophagous rove beetle Philonthus quisquiliarius (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) fed on animal and plant based diets

The zoophytophagous feeding habits of larvae and adults of the rove beetle, Philonthus quisquiliarius (Gyllenhal) (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), are reported for the first time. This study evaluates the effects of different feeding regimes on its growth and reproductive performance (i.e., larval growth, adult weight gain, consumption, fecundity and fertility) and digestive physiology. Larvae presented similar growth rates when fed on living animal or on green plant material for 48h. However, higher consumption rates and lower efficiencies of conversion of digested matter to body mass were obtained when leaves were consumed. Adults presented also positive weight gains regardless of the food consumed (plant or animal material). Interestingly, the highest weight gain rate and efficiency of digestion resulted when adults fed on a rearing diet containing nutrients from both animals and plants. Moreover, we have found negative effects upon P. quisquiliarius fecundity and fertility when supplemental plant nutrients were removed from the optimum rearing diet. Physiological adaptations to allow trophic switching between predation and phytophagy have been found, such as the higher ratio of α-amylase activity to protease activity to deal with the inverted protein-carbohydrate ratio of plant versus animal tissues. Furthermore, this species has an arsenal of digestive proteases whose activity is affected by the type of diet ingested. All together, our results suggest that P. quisquiliarius needs certain nutrients, which are obtained only from plant material. This knowledge will help to understand the complex trophic interactions that occur in agroecosystems.

Prompt Initiation of ART With Therapeutic Food Is Associated With Improved Outcomes in HIV-Infected Malawian Children With Malnutrition

This retrospective observational study of 140 HIV-infected children with uncomplicated malnutrition in urban Malawi tested the hypothesis that initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) within 21 days of outpatient therapeutic feeding (prompt ART) improved clinical outcomes. Children receiving prompt ART were more likely to recover nutritionally (86% vs. 60%, P < 0.01) and had higher rates of weight gain (3.6 vs. 1.6 g/k/day; P = 0.02). Logistic regression modeling found prompt ART was associated with increased likelihood of nutritional recovery (odds ratio: 5.4, 95% confidence interval: 2.0 to 14.5). This suggests that prompt ART is associated with improved outcomes in HIV-infected Malawian children with uncomplicated malnutrition.

P-1102 - Comparative effectiveness of second generation antidepressants in the pharmacologic treatment of adult depression

Second-generation antidepressants dominate the medical management of major depressive disorder (MDD). Two published CERs provide conflicting evidence about the comparative efficacy and safety of second-generation antidepressants for the treatment of MDD. To compare the benefits and harms of bupropion, citalopram, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, mirtazapine, nefazodone, paroxetine, sertraline, trazodone, and venlafaxine for the treatment of MDD in adults. We updated a CER published in 2007 by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality searching MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and the International Pharmaceutical Abstracts up to May 2010. Two persons independently reviewed the literature, abstracted data, and rated the risk of bias. If data were sufficient, we conducted meta-analyses of head-to-head trials of the relative benefit of response to treatment. In addition, we conducted mixed treatment comparisons to derive indirect estimates of the comparative efficacy among all second-generation antidepressants. Overall, no substantial differences in efficacy could be detected among second-generation antidepressants. Statistically significant differences in response rates between some compared drugs are small and likely not clinically relevant. Differences exist in the incidence of specific adverse events and the onset of action. Venlafaxine leads to higher rates of nausea and vomiting, sertraline to higher rates of diarrhea, and mirtazapine to higher rates of weight gain than comparator drugs. Bupropion caused lower rates of sexual dysfunction than other antidepressants. Our findings indicate that the existing evidence does not warrant the choice of one second-generation antidepressant over another based on greater efficacy and effectiveness.

Weight Loss and Sleep‐Disordered Breathing in Childhood Obesity: Effects on Inflammation and Uric Acid

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is prevalent in childhood obesity. It may be an independent risk factor for the metabolic syndrome. Possible mechanisms are inflammation and oxidative stress. Adenotonsillectomy in childhood obesity is associated with a high recurrence rate and risk of postoperative weight gain. Therefore, this study assessed the effects of SDB on inflammation and oxidative stress in childhood obesity before and after weight loss. We included 132 obese subjects between 10 and 18 years consecutively. Median age was 15.4 years (10.1-18.0). Mean BMI z-score was 2.72 ± 0.42. Leukocytes and differentiation, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and uric acid (UA) were determined at baseline and subjects underwent a sleep assessment. SDB was diagnosed in 39%. Linear regression analysis showed an association between UA(log) and oxygen desaturation index(log) (ODI(log)) (r = 0.20; P = 0.03), between leukocytes(log) and respiratory disturbance index(log) (RDI(log)) (r = 0.23; P = 0.01), and between lymphocytes(log) and RDI(log) (r = 0.19; P = 0.04). Follow-up was organized after 4-6 months of treatment. Median decrease in BMI z-score was 32%. Laboratory measurements were repeated. Subjects with SDB at baseline underwent a second sleep study. Of these 49 subjects, 12 showed residual SDB. This corresponds with a treatment success rate of 71%. Unlike changes in inflammatory markers, improvements in UA were associated with improvements in RDI and ODI (respectively: r = 0.44; P = 0.007, r = 0.41; P = 0.01). In conclusion, weight loss is effective in treating obese children with SDB. At baseline, a link exists between inflammation and SDB. Oxidative stress is reflected by UA at baseline and the concentration decreases after treatment according to improvements in SDB.

Single or combined effects of fructo- and mannan oligosaccharide supplements and Bacillus clausii on the growth, feed utilization, body composition, digestive enzyme activity, innate immune response and lipid metabolism of the Japanese flounder Paralichth

In this study, we examined the effects of the following eight experimental diets, which varied in fructo oligosaccharides (FOS), mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) and Bacillus clausii concentrations, on the Japanese flounder: control diet (no FOS, MOS and B. clausii), diet F (5 g kg−1 FOS), diet M (5 g kg−1 MOS), diet FM (2.5 g kg−1 FOS + 2.5 g kg−1 MOS), diet B (107 cells g−1B. clausii), diet FB (5 g kg−1 FOS + 107 cells g−1B. clausii), diet MB (5 g kg−1 MOS + 107 cells g−1B. clausii) and diet FMB (2.5 g kg−1 FOS + 2.5 g kg−1 MOS + 107 cells g−1B. clausii). Japanese flounder, initially weighing an average of 21 g, were distributed into 24 net cages at a stocking density of 20 fish per cage. Each diet was hand-fed to three groups of fish twice daily for 56 days. The weight gain rate (WGR) in fish fed diets B, MB and FMB were significantly higher than in fish fed the control diet, where the fish fed diet FMB had the highest WGR. Fish fed any of the diets, except diets F and B, exhibited better feed conversion ratio than those fed the control diet. Diets MB and FMB significantly elevated intestinal protease activity compared with the control diet, but only the diet FMB promoted amylase activity. Feeding diets FB and FMB increased body protein deposition; additionally, feeding diets B, MB and FMB significantly reduced body lipid deposition. Lysozyme (LSZ) activity was significantly higher in fish fed diets B, FB, MB and FMB than in fish fed the control diet. All diets, except diet M, decreased triglyceride (TG) levels compared to the control diet. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in fish fed diets F, FB and FMB were significantly lower than in fish fed the control diet. Without exception, no diets affected feeding rate, condition factor, body moisture, ash contents, phagocytic activity of leucocytes or cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Our results suggest that diets supplemented with FOS, MOS and B. clausii improved growth performance and health benefits of the Japanese flounder more than other diets or the control diet.

P03-97 - Comparative efficacy, effectiveness and harms of second-generation antidepressants in the pharmacologic treatment of adult depression

IntroductionSecond-generation antidepressants dominate the medical management of major depressive disorder (MDD). Two published comparative effectiveness reviews (CER) provide conflicting evidence about the comparative efficacy and safety of second-generation antidepressants for treating MDD.ObjectivesTo compare the benefits and harms of bupropion, citalopram, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, mirtazapine, nefazodone, paroxetine, sertraline, trazodone, and venlafaxine for the treatment of MDD in adults.MethodsWe updated a CER published in 2007 by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality searching MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and the International Pharmaceutical Abstracts up to May 2010. Two persons independently reviewed the literature, abstracted data, and rated the risk of bias. If data were sufficient, we conducted meta-analyses of head-to-head trials of the relative benefit of response to treatment. In addition, we conducted mixed treatment comparisons to derive indirect estimates of the comparative efficacy among all second-generation antidepressants.ResultsOverall, no substantial differences in efficacy could be detected among second-generation antidepressants. Statistically significant differences in response rates between some compared drugs are small and likely not clinically relevant. Differences exist in the incidence of specific adverse events and the onset of action. Venlafaxine leads to higher rates of nausea and vomiting, sertraline to higher rates of diarrhea, and mirtazapine to higher rates of weight gain than comparator drugs. Bupropion caused lower rates of sexual dysfunction than other antidepressants.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that the existing evidence does not warrant the choice of one second-generation antidepressant over another based on greater efficacy and effectiveness.