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Proteomic profiling of cephalic vein reveals potential biomarkers for arteriovenous fistula neointimal hyperplasia in ESRD patients.

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred vascular access for patients with end-stage renal disease; however, its failure is primarily due to neointimal hyperplasia. Five patients who underwent initial AVF surgery served as the control group, and another five patients with failed AVF surgery served as the experimental group. Herein, we employed mass spectrometry (MS)-based quantitative proteomics coupled with tandem mass tag labeling to screen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the anastomotic cephalic vein, followed by bioinformatics analyses and verification experiments. A total of 121 DEPs were identified in the failed AVF group. GO analysis was primarily enriched in protein binding, nucleic acid binding, enzyme binding, mRNA binding, cadherin binding, catalytic activity, and cell adhesion molecule binding. KEGG pathways were mainly enriched in cell aggregation and adhesion, actin cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, complement and coagulation cascades, and cholesterol metabolism. Protein-protein interaction network consisted of 86 (71.07%) DEPs, including complement VII (C7), factor IX (F9), SERPINC1, microfibril-associated glycoprotein 4 (MFAP4), complement C1s subcomponent, complement C1q subcomponent subunit A, complement C1q subcomponent subunit B, tissue factor, and von Willebrand factor, which interacting with numerous other proteins. In the expanded validation for different patients, C7, F9, SERPINC1, and MFAP4, were verified by immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting, which were consistent with the proteomics results. Collectively, this study identifies a series of potential diagnostic biomarkers, and explores the underlying mechanisms associated with AVF dysfunction.

Humans

Circadian reprogramming of inflammation and metabolism in chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is driven by inflammation, fibrosis, and metabolic dysfunction. While circadian rhythm dysregulation is well documented in chronic disorders, its specific impact on CKD pathogenesis remains elusive. METHODS: We performed four-hour interval time-series RNA sequencing on renal tissues from control and CKD mice. We used the JTK_CYCLE algorithm to identify rhythmic genes and categorize them as lost, acquired, or sustained in CKD; we subsequently performed focused bioinformatic analyses. RESULTS: The renal circadian profile was substantially altered; acquired rhythmicity emerged as the dominant pattern, and core clock gene expression was disrupted. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that upregulated acquired-rhythmic genes in CKD were enriched in immune-inflammatory pathways; the expression of these genes peaked at Zeitgeber time (ZT) 12-16, consistent with a higher level of renal macrophage infiltration at ZT16 than at ZT0. Conversely, genes associated with nutrient and energy metabolism pathways were downregulated but acquired rhythmicity in CKD. Dapagliflozin improved renal function and restored the circadian expression rhythms of NR1D1 and p-BMAL1. CONCLUSIONS: CKD profoundly remodels the renal circadian transcriptome, driving immune-inflammatory and metabolic pathways into maladaptive rhythmicity. Furthermore, dapagliflozin can partially restore the expression of renal core clock genes.

Animals

IgA Vasculitis with necrotizing arteritis: a multicenter retrospective study from the French Vasculitis Study Group and systematic review of the literature.

IgA vasculitis (IgAV) primarily affects small vessels, but rare cases with necrotizing arteritis (NA) raise questions about overlap with polyarteritis nodosa (PAN). To characterize IgAV with necrotizing arteritis (IgAV-NA) and compare its phenotype with classical IgAV and PAN. We performed a multicenter retrospective study combined with a systematic literature review (1990-2025). Patients fulfilled EULAR/PRINTO/PRES IgAV criteria, had pathological or imaging evidence of NA in small or medium arteries, and were ANCA-negative. Thirty patients were included (7 from databases, 23 from the literature). NA was confirmed by biopsy (n = 16) or vascular imaging (n = 14). Clinical features, treatments, remission, and mortality were compared with 257 adult IgAV and 196 PAN patients. Median age was 54.5 years. IgAV-NA was characterized by severe manifestations, including gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, surgical abdomen, neuropathy, pancreatitis, and livedo. Compared with classical IgAV, IgAV-NA showed significantly higher rates of multi-organ involvement and mortality. Compared with PAN, IgAV-NA shared vascular complications but had less fever and neuropathy. Despite arterial involvement, patients did not fulfil PAN criteria. IgAV-NA represents a rare, severe IgAV phenotype with life-threatening complications rather than an IgAV-PAN overlap. Severe or atypical IgAV presentations should prompt vascular imaging and intensified immunosuppression.

Humans

Effects of Esketamine on Postoperative Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale Scores in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Radical Resection for Colorectal Cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of intravenous esketamine on postoperative Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical resection for colorectal cancer. METHODS: In this prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study, adult patients for elective laparoscopic radical resection were randomly assigned (1:1) to a control group (group C) or an esketamine group (group PE). Group C received conventional general anesthesia and patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA). In group PE, esketamine 0.5&#x2009;mg/kg was injected during induction of anesthesia, with esketamine 1&#x2009;mg/kg added to PCIA. Primary outcome was HADS score on postoperative day 1. Secondary outcomes included HADS scores on postoperative days 3 and 7, sleep quality scores, postoperative level of consciousness, complication rate, length of hospital stay, 24&#x2009;h inflammatory factors, and satisfaction scores. RESULTS: Group PE showed significantly lower HADS-A and HADS-D scores on postoperative days 1 and 3 , reduced 24&#x2009;h interleukin-6 (IL-6) leveland higher patient satisfaction compared with group C (all p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Esketamine given during induction and in PCIA reduced early-stage postoperative HADS scores and improved patient satisfaction in colorectal cancer patients.

Humans

Ten years on, still out of reach: barriers to PrEP access and retention in France according to frontline actors (QualiPrEP Study).

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV has been available in France since 2014, and reimbursed since 2016, with general practitioners allowed to prescribe it since 2021. Despite these policy advances, uptake remains low among some of the most affected populations. This community-based qualitative study explored barriers to PrEP access and retention ten years into its implementation.Interviews were conducted with 28 PrEP frontline actors (healthcare professionals and community-based workers involved in promoting, prescribing, or supporting PrEP). The sample included one group discussion (n = 5), two triads (n = 6), two dyads (n = 4), and nine individual interviews (n = 13). Thematic analysis was inductive, with barriers classified across four main domains.Participants were mostly cisgender men, median age 48, born in France and abroad, and employed by NGOs in Paris. Thirteen barriers and four major themes emerged: (1) Internal psychosocial barriers: lack of knowledge, negative health-related reactions; HIV stigma; STI risk perception, taboos; (2) Internal pragmatic barriers: perceived limits of protection, usage and follow-up constraints; (3) External psychosocial barriers: limited physician knowledge and reluctance; (4) External pragmatic barriers: communication failures; structural constraints, lack of human and financial resources.Findings call for more targeted messaging, simplified care models and provider training. They highlight the need to address social and symbolic dimensions of PrEP, with insights from those supporting users to ensure more equitable implementation.

Humans

Comparison of three tracking methods to assess usage of two pediatric powered mobility devices for young children with cerebral palsy.

Powered mobility devices are underutilized for promoting self-initiated mobility in young children with cerebral palsy due to prioritization of walking, caregiver effort, device characteristics, and environmental factors. Understanding device usage patterns is important to assess the impact of powered mobility interventions on child outcomes. As part of clinical trial (NCT04684576), three objective tracking methods including integrated loggers, Global Positioning System trackers (GPST), and caregiver reported activity logs (CRAL) were compared to provide insights into device usage patterns. Metrics included play session frequency, session duration, total usage minutes, and unique usage days for two powered mobility devices: Modified Ride-on Cars (MROC) and the Permobil Explorer Mini (EM). Twelve children with cerebral palsy used each device for eight consecutive weeks in home and community settings (16&#x2009;weeks total), with device ordered randomized. Results showed no significant differences among tracking methods for the MROC. For the EM, only session duration differed between GPST and CRAL. Correlation analysis revealed variable relationships amongst tracking methods for both devices. The EM was used more frequently than the MROC, with significantly greater total usage minutes and session duration via CRAL, not GPST. The findings highlight the need for reliable tracking technologies that can be used across powered mobility devices.

Child, Preschool

The association between normalized creatinine-to-cystatin C ratio and incident circadian syndrome in middle-aged and older adults: a national cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Evidence on the association between the normalized creatinine-to-cystatin C ratio (NCCR) and Circadian Syndrome (CircS) in the general population remains scarce. This study aimed to investigate this relationship using data from middle-aged and elderly participants in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 5,981 participants (2011 wave) and a prospective cohort analysis of 2,053 participants (2015 wave, median follow-up 4.0&#x2009;years). CircS was defined as a cluster including elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, abdominal obesity, depression, and abnormal sleep duration. RESULTS: During follow-up, 552 participants developed incident CircS. A significant inverse association was observed: the risk of new-onset CircS progressively decreased with higher baseline NCCR levels. After adjusting for multiple confounders, each standard deviation increase in NCCR was associated with a 40% reduced odds of CircS (adjusted odds ratio&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.60, 95% confidence interval: 0.48 to 0.75). Subgroup and dose-response analyses confirmed the robustness of this inverse relationship. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, a lower NCCR is independently associated with an elevated risk of developing CircS. These findings support NCCR's role as a practical serum indicator of sarcopenia and implicate muscle loss as a potentially key underlying pathway in the pathogenesis of Circadian Syndrome.

Humans

Adherence and efficacy of the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;7&#x2009;-&#x2009;21-day versus the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;1&#x2009;-&#x2009;6-month hepatitis B vaccination schedules among people who use drugs: a two-year randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: To compare the adherence and efficacy between the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;7&#x2009;-&#x2009;21-day and the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;1&#x2009;-&#x2009;6-month hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination schedules among people who use drugs (PWUD) in China. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 1261 HBV-susceptible PWUD from compulsory isolated detoxification centers (CIDCs) and methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clinics in Xi'an. A 20&#x2009;&#xb5;g per-dose vaccine was used. HBV surface antibody (anti-HBs), surface antigen, and core antibody were tested at months 7, 15, and 22 after the first dose. RESULTS: Third-dose coverage was significantly higher in the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;7&#x2009;-&#x2009;21-day group (74.40%) than in the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;1&#x2009;-&#x2009;6-month group (51.58%, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), mainly driven by participants from CIDCs (77.75% vs. 45.69%). Anti-HBs positive rates at months 7, 15, and 22 among participants who completed all three doses were significantly higher for the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;1&#x2009;-&#x2009;6-month schedule (90.71%, 76.82%, and 67.35%) than for the 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;7&#x2009;-&#x2009;21-day schedule (74.23%, 49.40%, and 40.95%; all p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). HBV infection incidence was similar between schedules, but significantly different between vaccinees and non-vaccinees (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.018). CONCLUSIONS: The 0&#x2009;-&#x2009;7&#x2009;-&#x2009;21-day schedule substantially enhances three-dose completion in PWUD, but induces a notably weaker anti-HBs response and persistence. Schedules should be selected based on the management models for PWUD and their individual characteristics. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900022403).

Humans

Study of prescription-indication of antivirals for herpesviruses in a Colombian population: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: To describe the utilization patterns and therapeutic indications of antivirals used for herpesvirus infections in Colombian patients. RESEARCH DESIGN/METHODS: A cross-sectional study on the use of antivirals for treating outpatients with herpesviruses between November 2023 and January 2024 in a Colombian population database. The Micromedex&#xae; database was used to identify Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications, off-label uses, and potentially inappropriate indications. RESULTS: A total of 14,816 individuals were included (median age:53.0 years [IQR:35.0-65.0]; 60.5% women). Acyclovir was the most frequently prescribed antiviral (oral:77.3%; topical:43.4%). Overall, 56.1% received oral therapy only, 25.2% combined oral and topical therapy, and 18.7% topical therapy only. FDA-approved indications accounted for 29.1% of use (herpes zoster), off-label use for 26.9% (mainly prophylaxis in immunocompromised patients), and potentially inappropriate use for 25.3% (primarily topical treatment of herpes zoster). Acyclovir use (OR:5.93; 95%CI:4.60-7.64) and specialist care (OR:2.17; 95%CI:1.73-2.71) were associated with off-label use. CONCLUSIONS: Antiviral prescribing for herpesvirus infections in a group of patients in Colombia is largely driven by acyclovir, with a substantial proportion of off-label and potentially inappropriate use, particularly involving topical therapies for herpes zoster. These findings highlight significant gaps in adherence to evidence-based recommendations and underscore the need for targeted interventions to optimize prescribing practices.

Humans

Single-slice Functional Lung MRI During Metronome-Paced Tachypnea Detects Changes in Regional Ventilation Dynamics After a Single Dose of Dual Bronchodilator Treatment in COPD.

Dual long-acting bronchodilators are a standard treatment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), aimed at alleviating dyspnea, improving exercise tolerance, and preventing exacerbations. Metronome-paced tachypnea (MPT) offers a feasible alternative to exercise testing for the evaluation of dynamic hyperinflation (DH) in COPD. Because MPT can be performed during MRI, its combination with single-slice phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI provides a promising approach to investigate changes in regional ventilation dynamics induced by DH. This approach was evaluated in a randomized, investigator-blinded, placebo-controlled, single-dose (SD) crossover trial with a two-week extension of once daily dual bronchodilator medication, in which patients with stable COPD underwent PREFUL MRI during resting tidal breathing (RTB) and during MPT. During RTB, no significant improvements in MRI-derived parameters were observed after SD treatment compared with placebo. During MPT, however, regional ventilation, flow-volume loop correlation, its defect percentage, and end-expiratory lung area improved significantly after SD treatment compared to the placebo scan (all p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.02). After multi-dose treatment, five out of six measured parameters improved during MPT, when compared to the baseline scan without bronchodilator treatment (all p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.03). In contrast to RTB, PREFUL MRI during MPT was able to detect changes in COPD patients already after SD treatment. The combination of MPT and PREFUL MRI represents a promising method to evaluate the effects of dual bronchodilators on regional ventilation dynamics and hyperinflation.

Humans

Effects of six weeks of guanidinoacetic acid supplementation with and without creatine monohydrate on cognitive function and markers of health in healthy adults.

BACKGROUND: Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) supplementation has been reported to increase brain creatine content more effectively than creatine monohydrate (CrM). However, the effects on cognitive function are unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this proof-of-concept exploratory clinical trial was to determine whether GAA supplementation with and without CrM affects cognitive function and/or markers of health. METHODS: In a double-blind, randomized, and counterbalanced manner, 58 healthy and active adults (33 females, 35.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;14 years, 76.2&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;14 kg) ingested a PLA (PLA, 2 &#xd7; 6 g/d maltodextrin), GAA (2 &#xd7; 1 g/d)&#x2009;+&#x2009;PLA (2 &#xd7; 5 g/d), or GAA (2 &#xd7; 1 g/d)&#x2009;+&#x2009;CrM (2 &#xd7; 5 g/d) for six weeks. The participants donated fasting blood samples and completed a battery of tests and questionnaires assessing various aspects of function, mood, stress, sleep quality, and markers of health at baseline and after six weeks of supplementation. Data were analyzed using General Linear Model (GLM) multivariate and univariate with repeated measures, and mean changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals, and Chi-squared analysis, and considered significant when the probability of error was 0.05 or less, and approaching significance (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05-p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.10). RESULTS: GAA supplementation tended to improve overall reaction time (-241.8&#x2009;ms [-533, 50], p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.10) while significant interaction effects were observed in overall reaction time (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.031-330 ms [-629, -31]) and YES reaction time (-290&#x2009;ms [-484, -96], p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.004) while recalled correct reaction time (-178&#x2009;ms [-374, 21], p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.078) and recalled correct YES (7.4 % [-1, 15.8], p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.084) approached significance compared to PLA. Limited to no effects were observed on the Delayed Picture Recognition Task Test, Digit Vigilance Task Test, Corsi Block Task Test, or Stroop Color-Word Task Test. The amount of time engaged in moderate physical activity was significantly greater (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) in the GAA group compared to PLA. Participants in the GAA group reported a lower frequency of controlling irritations (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.036), and feeling like difficulties are mounting (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.053) on the Perceived Stress Scale. Some positive and potentially undesirable effects were observed in sleep quality assessments. The quality of life assessment revealed that participants in the GAA group reported less frequent feelings of being worn out (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.068) and that their health was excellent (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.092) while those in the GAA&#x2009;+&#x2009;CrM group reported more frequent limitations when bending, kneeling, or stooping (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.053), more often feeling full of life (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.081), and less frequency in feeling downhearted and depressed (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.066). No clinically meaningful changes were observed in blood markers or self-reported side effects among the groups. CONCLUSION: Dietary supplementation with GAA (2 g/d) and the combination of CrM (10 g/d&#x2009;+&#x2009;GAA 2 g/d) for six weeks improved delayed verbal episodic recognition memory and retrieval speed and some measures of perceived stress, sleep quality, and quality of life. However, most cognitive tests were not affected, particularly when comparing the GAA to the PLA group; there were some inconsistencies in the findings, and several differences only approached significance. Additional research is needed before conclusions can be drawn. Clinical trial registration: ISRCTN68542582.

Humans

Could creatine supplementation combined with physical rehabilitation accelerate return to play in athletes with patellar tendinopathy?

BACKGROUND: Several dietary supplements have been proposed to positively influence the rehabilitation process following injury. However, to date, no studies have specifically examined the effects of scientifically supported ergogenic aids on recovery outcomes when combined with physical performance interventions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the ergogenic effects of creatine supplementation on neuromuscular performance, tendon thickness, pain, and body composition in athletes diagnosed with patellar tendinopathy (PT). METHODS: Using a triple-blind experimental design, 20 federated athletes (age: 33.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;9.84 years) with PT were randomly assigned to either a creatine supplementation group (CR; n&#x2009;=&#x2009;9) or a placebo group (PLA; n&#x2009;=&#x2009;11). All participants followed a physical rehabilitation intervention that included daily eccentric training combined with stretching exercises, along with one session every 10 days of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and manual therapy targeting the tendon and surrounding muscle tissue. At the end of each eccentric training session, the participants ingested 3 capsules of creatine monohydrate - Creapure&#xae; (CR) or sucrose (PLA). At the beginning (PRE), after 4 weeks (MID), and after 8 weeks (POST), the pain level (Victorian Institute for Sports Assessment-Patella, VISA-P), tendon thickness (echography), body composition (bioelectrical impedance system), and neuromuscular performance using a countermovement jump test (CMJ) and a strength test (5-RM) of knee extension in the injured leg. RESULTS: A significant main effect of time was observed for VISA-P scores (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001; &#x3b7;2 p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.626), indicating a reduction in pain over time in both the creatine (CR) and placebo (PLA) groups. At POST, both groups showed significant improvements compared to PRE (CR: 78.0 points [69.2-86.8] vs. 60.6 points [53.4-67.7]; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.002; PLA: 75.2 points [66.3-84.0] vs. 60.0 points [52.5-67.5]; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.003). However, only the CR group showed a statistically significant improvement in the MID compared to PRE (MID: 70.2 points [60.0-80.5]; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.027). A significant main effect of time was observed for both tendon thickness (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001; &#x3b7;2 p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.629) and the 5-RM leg extension test (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001; &#x3b7;2 p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.739), with both groups showing progressive improvements over time. Nevertheless, as trend toward a statistically significant time&#xb7;supplementation interaction was observed (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.099; &#x3b7;2p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.126), with an increase in performance only in CMJ in MID vs PRE (36.8&#x2009; cm (33.8-39.7) vs 34.3&#x2009; cm (30.8-37.7); p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.019) and POST vs MID (POST: 37.6&#x2009; cm (33.5-41.8); p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.015). CONCLUSIONS: A physical rehabilitation program involving eccentric training, stretching, and ESWT is effective in reducing tendon thickness and increasing muscle strength. However. It seems that the addition of CR induces an earlier reduction of pain and a positive effect on CMJ performance. Therefore, CR could be considered as an ergogenic recovery aid in athletes with PT.

Humans

A 12-week, double-blind, quasi-randomized, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Coleus forskohlii (Forcslim) on body weight loss.

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity have emerged as a global epidemic, significantly impacting human health. Traditional usage and growing scientific evidence suggest that Coleus forskohlii extract (Forcslim) may aid in reducing excess body weight and fat. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Forcslim supplementation in overweight individuals. METHODS: A quasi-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 60 overweight subjects aged 20-70&#x2009;years over a period of 12&#x2009;weeks. The participants were assigned to receive either Forcslim or placebo. The key outcome measures included body weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, and anthropometric parameters. Additionally, lipid profile parameters and safety markers (including metabolic, hepatic, and cardiovascular indicators) were assessed throughout the study duration. RESULTS: Compared to the placebo group, the Forcslim group showed significant reductions in waist circumference (-1.83&#x2009;cm; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01) and body weight (-1.93&#x2009;kg; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). Significant improvements in anthropometric parameters were observed exclusively in the Forcslim group. Furthermore, triglyceride (TG) levels were significantly reduced (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01), while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels showed a significant increase (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001). No clinically significant changes were observed in metabolic markers, liver and muscle enzyme levels, heart rate, blood pressure, or reported adverse effects, indicating a favorable safety profile. CONCLUSIONS: Forcslim demonstrated significant anti-obesity effects, including reductions in body weight, waist circumference, and improvements in the lipid profile. These findings suggest that C. forskohlii extract supplementation may serve as a safe and effective alternative to synthetic anti-obesity drugs.

Humans

Probiotic supplementation improves body composition, lipid profiles, and fatty acid metabolism in combat sports athletes during the weight reduction phase.

PURPOSE: Pre-competition weight control for combat sports athletes may alter body composition and fatty acid metabolism. Probiotics have shown potential to regulate overall metabolism; however, their specific effects on fatty acid metabolism during weight control in athletes remain unclear. METHODS: Thirty-two combat sports athletes participating in the 4-week weight reduction period were assigned to either the probiotic group (Group E) or the placebo group (Group C). Body composition, lipid profiles, and fatty acid metabolism were measured before and after the 4-week weight reduction phase. RESULTS: All the athletes experienced a decrease in body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and muscle mass following the 4-week weight loss intervention. Notably, a more significant reduction in body fat percentage (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) was observed, along with lower levels of triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), specifically in Group E. Weight loss intervention resulted in increased levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), specifically acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid. Notably, Group E exhibited higher mean values for SCFAs compared to Group C (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). Additionally, the serum levels of &#x3b3;-linolenic acid and 8,11,14-eicosatrienoic acid were significantly reduced in Group E (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). In contrast, the majority of free fatty acids (FFAs) showed significant increases, with greater magnitudes of change observed in Group C (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). CONCLUSION: Probiotic supplementation can improve body composition, enhance SCFAs levels, and decrease circulating FFAs in combat sports athletes, suggesting that probiotics may have a beneficial impact on pre-competition weight management. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: chiCTR2400079908 (Reg Date:2024-01-16).

Humans

A study on the differences in recovery effects of different types of nutritional supplements on competitive performance of esports athletes under mental fatigue.

BACKGROUND: To compare the effects of different nutritional supplements on the recovery of core competitive performance abilities in esports athletes following mental fatigue and to observe changes in the autonomic nervous system during recovery after nutritional supplementation by monitoring heart rate variability (HRV). METHODS: A randomized crossover within-subject controlled experimental design was adopted, including nutritional supplement type (caffeine, nitrate, Ginkgo biloba extract, catechins, placebo)&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;mental fatigue state (initial, fatigued, post-supplementation). Twenty high-level first-person shooter (FPS) esports athletes were recruited. Mental fatigue was induced using a Stroop task. After ingesting the different supplements and resting for 60&#x2009;minutes, the participants completed assessments of shooting accuracy, shooting stability, spatial localization, and multitasking ability using the KovaaK's simulation trainer. HRV indices were also recorded to evaluate changes in autonomic regulation. RESULTS: For shooting accuracy, compared with the placebo condition, all four supplements significantly improved shooting accuracy scores following mental fatigue (all p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05); however, no significant differences were observed among the effects of the different supplements. For shooting stability, caffeine, nitrate, and catechins produced significant recovery effects on shooting stability (all p&#x2009; <&#x2009;0.05); however, no significant differences were observed among the effects of these three supplements. For spatial localization and multitasking ability, the improvements in these two abilities in the post-supplementation state may have resulted from natural recovery, and none of the four nutritional supplements demonstrated a significant recovery effect. The HRV results showed that indices including RMSSD and SDNN changed under some supplement conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Mental fatigue significantly reduced the competitive performance of esports athletes. Four types of nutritional supplements all promoted the recovery of shooting accuracy, while caffeine, nitrate, and catechins promoted the recovery of shooting stability. However, no additional recovery advantages of the nutritional supplements over placebo were identified for spatial localization or multitasking ability. Changes in HRV may reflect changes in autonomic regulation during recovery, but further research is still warranted.

Humans

An individualized nomogram for predicting progression-free survival in systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma: a multicenter, retrospective, and internally validated study.

OBJECTIVES: To develop an individualized nomogram for predicting disease progression risk in systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). METHODS: Independent predictors of progression-free survival (PFS) were identified using Cox regression in a multicenter retrospective cohort of 109 sALCL patients (2010-2022). These were incorporated into a three-factor nomogram, evaluated via bootstrapped internal validation (1000 resamples), ROC analysis, C-index, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curve (CIC). RESULTS: A total of 29 PFS events occurred during a median follow-up of 31 months. Multivariable modelling selected serum &#x3b2;2-microglobulin elevation, extranodal disease, and front-line chemotherapy choice (CHOP versus CHOPE or BV+CHP) as autonomous progression drivers. Upon internal bootstrap validation, the nomogram yielded strong prognostic accuracy, achieving AUCs of 0.81, 0.85 and 0.87 for 1-, 3- and 5-year progression-free survival, alongside a corrected C-index of 0.779 (95% CI: 0.699 - 0.861). Calibration plots showed close agreement between predicted and observed outcomes, while DCA confirmed superior net clinical benefit versus conventional IPI or Ann Arbor stratification across multiple decision thresholds. CONCLUSION: This first sALCL-specific nomogram integrates clinical and treatment variables to provide personalized PFS risk estimation. While internally validated, this exploratory, observation-based tool requires external validation and recalibration in prospective cohorts before clinical implementation.

Humans

Clinical and genetic features of Ph-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms with dual-driver gene positivity.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the clinical laboratory characteristics and gene mutation features of dual-driver gene positivity in patients with Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasm (Ph-negative MPN). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data and genetic test results from 203 newly diagnosed patients with Ph-negative MPN. Of these, 194 had single-driver gene positivity and 9 had dual-driver gene positivity. High-throughput sequencing was used to detect mutations in JAK2, CALR, and MPL. Clinical characteristics and gene mutation profiles were compared between the two patient groups. RESULTS: The incidence of dual-driver gene positivity was 4.4% (9/203), with the most common combinations being JAK2 with CALR (4 patients) and JAK2 with MPL (4 patients). Compared with the single-driver group, the dual-driver group had a significantly higher risk of bleeding [4.1% (8/194) vs. 33.3% (3/9), P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.008] and a higher proportion of uncommon mutations [3.6% (7/194) vs. 33.3% (3/9), P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.006]. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding age, thrombosis incidence, splenomegaly, or routine blood test indicators. During follow-up, 1 patient in the dual-driver group died from cerebrovascular disease. No leukaemia transformation or disease-related deaths occurred among the remaining patients. DISCUSSION: The increased bleeding risk in dual-driver patients may be related to a higher proportion of CALR mutations, elevated platelet counts, and higher variant allele frequencies, though these findings require validation in larger cohorts due to the small sample size. The higher prevalence of uncommon mutations suggests a more complex mutational landscape in this subgroup. CONCLUSION: Patients with Ph-negative MPN and dual-driver gene positivity may have a higher risk of bleeding and a more complex gene mutation profile.

Humans

Outcomes of patients with myelofibrosis treated with ruxolitinib and anemia-supporting medications.

OBJECTIVE: This post hoc analysis of the phase 3b JUMP trial evaluated addition of anemia-supporting medications to ruxolitinib in patients with myelofibrosis and anemia. METHODS: 101 patients with baseline hemoglobin <12.0&#x2009;g/dL initiated an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) or danazol <3&#x2009;months post-enrollment and maintained ESA/danazol &#x2265;3&#x2009;months; 97% initiated ESAs. Patients enrolled in JUMP who had hemoglobin <12.0&#x2009;g/dL but did not initiate ESAs/danazol within 3 months were evaluated as an unmatched comparator. Total JUMP population data were also analyzed for spleen length (&#x2265;50% reduction from baseline) and symptom response (&#x2265;6.5-point improvement in FACT-Lym score). RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar to comparator JUMP patients (no ESAs/danazol within 3&#x2009;months, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;1242). Mean total daily ruxolitinib dose remained >25&#x2009;mg. Week 24 spleen length response was achieved by 37% of patients; 26% achieved symptom response, similar to the comparator population (28% and 26%, respectively) and comparable to the total JUMP population (N&#x2009;=&#x2009;2233). Outcomes were similar between the hemoglobin <12.0&#x2009;g/dL analysis population and patients with baseline hemoglobin <10.0&#x2009;g/dL (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;52). In all groups, hemoglobin levels increased after Week 4 following an expected initial decrease. DISCUSSION: This analysis suggests that patients treated with ruxolitinib and anemia-supporting care continued to receive optimal ruxolitinib dosing; spleen-length and symptom response rates in these patients were comparable to the overall JUMP population, the majority of whom did not have anemia. CONCLUSION: Results support use of anemia-supporting medications with ruxolitinib and may allow maintenance of ruxolitinib dose intensity in patients with myelofibrosis and anemia.

Humans