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Objective NBS for CF became universal in the USA in 2010. To identify optimal feeding for CF infants, a multi-center prospective study known as FIRST (Feeding Infants Right … from the STart) was initiated in 2012 to enroll 160 infants by 2016 at 5 CF Centers (Madison and Milwaukee, WI; Indianapolis, IN; Salt Lake City, UT; and Boston, MA). Method Nutritional status in the first year of life from 91 infants (52% boys) enrolled at 1.4±0.6 mo to FIRST was assessed biochemically and anthropometrically. By 31/12/14, 80 infants were 6 mo and 60 infants were 12 mo old. Result Growth was normal at birth [3210±505 g (41 st %tile) and 50.1±2.8 cm (63 rd %tile)] but declined to the 18 th %tile at age 2 mo. Catch-up growth was observed; weight increased to 33 rd %tile at 6 mo and 64 th %tile at 12 mo, but length did not fully recover at 12 mo (44 th %tile). At birth, 73% were breastfed: 65% exclusive (exB) and 8% combined with formula (B&F). The rate of exB decreased to 41% by 1 mo and 16% by 6 mo, while B&F and exF increased to 27% and 57%, respectively, at 6 mo. In the first 6 mo of life, 60% of infants received fortified breast milk or high caloric density formula (22–30 kcal/oz). Abnormal essential fatty acid status was common before age 3 mo with 18% deficient [triene-tetraene (T/T) ratio >0.02] and another 18% insufficient (T/T ratio >0.01). Low vitamin D [25(OH)D <30 ng/L] was prevalent: 44% before 6 mo and 32% at 12 mo. Low a-tocopherol (<8 mg/L) was found in 20% before age 6 mo and 30% at 12 mo. Conclusion This new infant study shows that early diagnosis/care leads to substantial catch-up growth but biochemical nutritional status remains suboptimal. (Funded by NIH/CFF). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a report by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health which examined the effect of changes in the rate of multiple births on low birthweight (LBW) and characterized women who have multiple births during 1989 to 1996. Findings of the report; Two issues highlighted by the report; Cause of increase in multiple births and LBW rates.

Objective:The incidence of obesity and overweight in the US has increased considerably during the past two decades and currently affects 65% of the adult population. Research has indicated that small, yet irreversible, gains during the holiday season contribute to increases in weight during adulthood. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a naturally occurring dietary fatty acid, has been found to reduce weight gain and dramatically decrease fat mass in animals. Although research in humans has shown inconsistent results, most studies have been of insufficient duration or have utilized body composition methods that are less accurate than the currently accepted criterion.Design:Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 3.2 g/day CLA for 6 months.Subjects:Forty healthy, overweight subjects (age: 18–44 years; body mass index: 25–30 kg/m2)Measurements:Body composition by the four-compartment model, resting metabolic rate (RMR) by indirect calorimetry, self-reported physical activity and dietary intake, and blood chemistries were determined at baseline and after 6 months. Body weight was measured monthly during the pre-holiday season (August–October), holiday season (November–December) and post-holiday season (January–March). Adverse events were assessed monthly.Results:Compared to CLA, the placebo group showed a greater rate of weight gain during the holiday season (P=0.01). Within the placebo group, holiday weight change was significantly greater compared to the pre-holiday period (August–October) (P=0.03). Six-month change in body composition was improved with CLA compared to placebo (P=0.02), and body fat was significantly reduced within the CLA group (−1.0±2.2 kg, P=0.05). CLA had no effect on RMR, physical activity or dietary intake. The rate of reported negative emotions decreased significantly with CLA, although there was no difference in any other category of adverse event. In comparison to the placebo, CLA did not affect insulin resistance, blood lipids and markers of liver function or markers of inflammation, with the exception of a significant decrease in a biomarker of endothelial dysfunction.Conclusion:CLA supplementation among overweight adults significantly reduced body fat over 6 months and prevented weight gain during the holiday season. Although no adverse effects were seen, additional studies should evaluate the effect of prolonged use of CLA.International Journal of Obesity (2007) 31, 481–487. doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0803437; published online 22 August 2006 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]