PRO Group Research Articles

Wheat Peptides as Catalysts for Athletic Performance Improvement in Cross-Country Skiers: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study investigated the efficacy of wheat peptide supplementation compared to regular proteins in elite cross-country skiers, providing insights into the metabolic and performance effects of these supplements in order to guide athletes in selecting optimal energy sources for training and competition. Nineteen healthy male cross-country skiers were enrolled and assigned to either the peptide group (PEP, n = 9) or the protein group (PRO, n = 10). A four-week intervention study involving supplementation with wheat peptides/regular proteins was conducted, and pre- and post-intervention assessments were performed to evaluate exercise capacity and metabolic profiles. The study found that the PEP group and the PRO group showed distinct within-group effects on exercise performance. The PEP group demonstrated improved aerobic capacity, including better performance in 10 km roller skating, an increased lactate threshold, and reduced resting blood lactate levels. The PRO group enhanced anaerobic capacity, such as improved sprint time, hexagon test performance, and lactate clearance. Metabolomic analysis revealed specific metabolic pathways affected in each group, with the PEP group showing impacts on the α-linolenic acid pathway and the PRO group on ketone body synthesis and degradation as well as vitamin B6 metabolism. Our findings indicate that wheat oligopeptides and regular proteins have comparable effects on exercise performance. However, the wheat peptides may offer greater advantages in enhancing aerobic capacity. No significant variations were observed in blood metabolite profiles between the two groups, but distinct metabolic pathways exhibited different responses.

Cytomegalovirus immunity in high-risk liver transplant recipients following preemptive antiviral therapy versus prophylaxis.

CMV-specific T cells, NK cells, and neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) were assessed in a randomized trial of CMV prevention with preemptive antiviral therapy (PET) versus prophylactic antiviral therapy (PRO) in donor-seropositive/recipient-seronegative (D+R-) liver transplant recipients (LTxR) at 100 days (end of intervention) and at 6 and 12 months after transplant. The PET group had significantly increased numbers of circulating polyfunctional T cells, NK cells, and nAbs compared with the PRO group at day 100, and several CMV immune parameters remained significantly higher by 12 months after transplant. Among PET recipients, preceding CMV viremia (vs. no preceding viremia) was associated with significantly higher levels of most CMV immune parameters at day 100. Higher numbers of CMV-specific polyfunctional T cells and NKG2C+ NK cells at day 100 were associated with a decreased incidence of CMV disease in multivariable Cox regression. The strongest associations with protection against CMV disease were with increased numbers of CMV-specific polyfunctional CD4+ T cells, CD3negCD56dimCD57negNKG2Cpos cells, and CD3negCD56dimCD57posNKG2Cpos NK cells. Our results suggest that PET is superior to PRO for CMV disease prevention by allowing low-level CMV replication and associated antigen exposure that is promptly controlled by antiviral therapy and facilitates enhanced CMV protective immunity in D+R- LTxR.

Effects of Resistant-Starch-Encapsulated Probiotic Cocktail on Intestines Damaged by 5-Fluorouracil.

Probiotics and prebiotics have gained attention for their potential health benefits. However, their efficacy hinges on probiotic survival through the harsh gastrointestinal environment. Microencapsulation techniques provide a solution, with resistant starch (RS)-based techniques showing promise in maintaining probiotic viability. Specifically, RS-encapsulated probiotics significantly improved probiotic survival in gastric acid, bile salts, and simulated intestinal conditions. This study investigated the effects of a resistant-starch-encapsulated probiotic cocktail (RS-Pro) in the context of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy, which frequently induces microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal mucositis. Female BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: a 5-FU group, a 5-FU+Pro group receiving free probiotics, and a 5-FU+RS-Pro group receiving RS-encapsulated probiotics. After 28 days of treatment, analyses were conducted on fecal microbiota, intestinal histology, peripheral blood cell counts, and body and organ weights. It was revealed by 16S rRNA MiSeq sequencing that 5-FU treatment disrupted gut microbiota composition, reduced microbial diversity, and caused dysbiosis. RS-Pro treatment restored microbial diversity and increased the population of beneficial bacteria, such as Muribaculaceae, which play roles in carbohydrate and polyphenol metabolism. Furthermore, 5-FU administration induced moderate intestinal mucositis, characterized by reduced cellularity and shortened villi. However, RS-Pro treatment attenuated 5-FU-induced intestinal damage, preserving villus length. Mild leukopenia observed in the 5-FU-treated mice was partially alleviated in 5-FU+Pro and 5-FU+RS-Pro groups. These findings suggest that RS-Pro may serve as an adjunct to chemotherapy, potentially reducing adverse effects and improving therapeutic outcomes in future clinical applications.

Protein Supplementation Increases Adaptations to Low-Volume, Intra-Session Concurrent Training in Untrained Healthy Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial.

Combined endurance and resistance training, also known as "concurrent training", is a common practice in exercise routines. While concurrent training offers the benefit of targeting both cardiovascular and muscular fitness, it imposes greater physiological demands on the body compared to performing each modality in isolation. Increased protein consumption has been suggested to support adaptations to concurrent training. However, the impact of protein supplementation on responses to low-volume concurrent training is still unclear. Forty-four untrained, healthy individuals (27 ± 6 years) performed two sessions/week of low-volume high-intensity interval training on cycle ergometers followed by five machine-based resistance training exercises for 8 weeks. Volunteers randomly received (double-blinded) 40 g of whey-based protein (PRO group) or an isocaloric placebo (maltodextrin, PLA group) after each session. Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and overall fitness scores (computed from volunteers' VO2max and one-repetition maximum scores, 1-RM) significantly increased in both groups. The PRO group showed significantly improved 1-RM in all major muscle groups, while the PLA group only improved 1-RM in chest and upper back muscles. Improvements in 1-RM in leg muscles were significantly greater in the PRO group versus the PLA group. In conclusion, our results indicate that adaptations to low-volume concurrent training, particularly leg muscle strength, can be improved with targeted post-exercise protein supplementation in untrained healthy individuals.

Improvement of the immunological and antioxidant capacity of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) by using the paraprobiotic Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii

The aim of this study was to produce Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii as a paraprobiotic for the nutrition of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Fifty-four trout (74.51 ± 3.15 g) were transferred to nine 300-liter tanks and fed PRO (live freeze-dried form), PAR (irradiated freeze-dried form) and control feed (n=3) for 8 weeks. Growth, hematological, immunological and enzymatic liver functions, as well as antioxidant capacity were then analyzed. Kidney, liver, and intestinal tissue as well as the expression of cytokines (TNF-1, TNF-2, IL-1β1, and IL-1β2) in spleen, and kidney were analyzed. The growth indices, white, and red blood cells, neutrophils, monocytes and granulocytes, total protein and globulin improved in the PAR and PRO groups compared to the control group (p<0.05). The results showed that the PAR and PRO groups resulted in modulation of ALT, AST and ALP compared to the control group (p<0.05). Antioxidant indices were highest in the PAR group compared to the PRO and control groups (p<0.05). Intestinal histology results showed that the height of intestinal folds and goblet cells increased in fish fed PRO and PAR compared to the control group (p<0.05). Although melatonin increased in the PAR and PRO groups, it decreased in the liver of PAR compared to PRO (p<0.05). Immunological indices improved in the PAR and PRO groups compared to the control group (p<0.05), with no differences between PAR and PRO (p<0.05). The results of this study show that the paraprobiotic produced in this study is effective under culture conditions and can therefore be used as a supplement in trout farming.

Color Stability of Various Orthodontic Clear Aligner Systems after Submersion in Different Staining Beverages.

This study aimed to compare the color changes in two different orthodontic clear aligner systems after submersion in various beverages for 14 days. The tested aligner systems were Taglus Premium made of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (the TAG group) and CA® Prodin+ made of a transparent copolyester and a thermoplastic elastomer (the PRO group). A total of 56 samples were firstly divided into two groups according to the tested system-TAG and PRO. Each group was subsequently divided in four subgroups according to immersion solution: A-artificial saliva, B-cola, C-coffee, D-red wine. Color measurements were performed on Days 1, 7 and 14 using a portable colorimeter and the CIE L*a*b* system. The obtained results showed significant color changes in both materials when exposed to coffee and red wine (p > 0.05). Samples in the PRO group showed a greater susceptibility to discoloration (higher ΔE values) when compared to the TAG group after submersion in cola (p = 0.025), coffee (p = 0.005) and red wine (p = 0.041) solutions. Statistical analysis revealed that all of the color parameters ΔL*, Δa*, Δb* and ΔE of both tested materials were affected by submersion in coffee solution for 14 days. In conclusion, the CA® Pro+ aligner system is more prone to staining compared to the Taglus material after submersion for 14 days in cola, coffee and red wine solutions. Submersion for 14 days in coffee solution alters all of the color parameters (ΔL, Δa, Δb and ΔE) of both tested aligner materials.

Electrophysiological differences of randomized deep sedation with dexmedetomidine versus propofol

BackgroundDexmedetomidine and propofol are common sedatives in intensive care units and for interventional procedures. Both may compromise sinus node function and atrioventricular conduction.The objective of this prospective, randomized study is to compare the effect of dexmedetomidine with propofol on sinus node function and atrioventricular conduction.MethodsIn a tertiary care center in Switzerland we included from September 2019 to October 2020 160 patients (65 ± 11 years old; 32% female) undergoing first ablation for atrial fibrillation by cryoballoon ablation or by radiofrequency ablation.Patients were randomly assigned to deep sedation with dexmedetomidine (DEX group) versus propofol (PRO group). A standard electrophysiological study was performed after pulmonary vein isolation with the patients still deeply sedated and hemodynamically stable.ResultsEighty patients each were randomized to the DEX and PRO group. DEX group patients had higher baseline sinus cycle length (1022 vs. 1138 ms; p = 0.003) and longer sinus node recovery time (SNRT400; 1597 vs. 1412 ms; p = 0.042). However, both corrected SNRT and normalized SNRT did not differ. DEX group patients had longer PR interval (207 vs. 186 ms; p = 0.002) and AH interval (111 vs. 95 ms, p = 0.008), longer Wenckebach cycle length of the atrioventricular node (512 vs. 456 ms; p = 0.005), and longer atrioventricular node effective refractory period (390 vs. 344 ms; p = 0.009). QRS width and HV interval were not different. An arrhythmia, mainly atrial fibrillation, was induced in 33 patients during the electrophysiological study, without differences among groups (20% vs. 15%, p = 0.533).ConclusionsDexmedetomidine has a more pronounced slowing effect on sinus rate and suprahissian AV conduction than propofol, but not on infrahissian AV conduction and ventricular repolarization. These differences need to be taken into account when using these sedatives.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov number NCT03844841, 19/02/2019

Systemic administration of propranolol reduces bone resorption and inflammation in apical periodontitis of chronically stressed rats.

To evaluate the effect of systemic administration of propranolol on the severity of apical periodontitis (AP) in chronically stressed rats. Twenty-four 70-day-old male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus, albinus) were distributed into three groups (n = 8): rats with AP without stressful conditions (AP-Control), rats with AP and submitted to a chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) protocol (AP + S) and rats with AP and submitted to a CUS protocol treated with propranolol (AP + S + PRO). Stress procedures were applied daily until the end of the experiment. After 3 weeks of CUS, AP was induced in all groups by exposing the pulpal tissue of mandibular and maxillary first molars to the oral environment. Propranolol treatment was administered orally once a day for the entire period of the experiment. Rats were sacrificed at 42 days, and the blood was collected for stress biomarkers serum dosage by multiplex assay. Mandibles were removed and submitted to microtomography and histopathological analyses. Periapical tissue surrounding the upper first molar was homogenized and subjected to RT-PCR analysis to evaluate the mRNA expression of RANKL, TRAP and OPG. Parametric data were assessed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test while the nonparametric data were analysed by the Kruskal-Wallis followed by Dunn's test. Significance level was set at 5% (p < .05) for all assessed parameters. Micro-CT revealed statistically significant differences in bone resorption which was greater in the AP + S group (p < .05), but no differences were observed between the Control and AP + S + PRO groups (p > .05). The AP + S + PRO group had a lower intensity and extent of inflammatory infiltrate compared to the AP + S group with smaller areas of bone loss (p < 0.05). The gene expression of RANKL and TRAP was significantly higher in the stressed group AP + S compared to the control group (p < .05), and a significantly higher OPG expression was observed in AP + S + PRO compared to the AP + S group (p < .05). Oral administration of propranolol had a significant effect on the AP severity in stressed rats, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect and a protective role on bone resorption of AP in stressed animals. Further research is necessary to fully comprehend the underlying mechanisms.

Comparison of efficacy and safety between oral propranolol combined with and without intralesional injection of lauromacrogol for infantile hemangioma.

The purpose of this study was to compare efficacy and side effects between oral propranolol combined with and without intralesional injection of lauromacrogol for infantile hemangioma (IH). This was a single center randomized controlled prospective study, all participants were firstly diagnosed with IH between August 2022 and January 2023 in our hospital and without any treatment before. Patients were randomized into two groups. PRO group: oral propranolol (2 mg/kg/day) continued for 6 months; PRO + LAU group: oral propranolol (2 mg/kg/day) for 6 months and intralesional injection of lauromacrogol for 2-4 times within 6 months. The dimensions, color, consistency, photographic documentation were well recorded based on Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before and after starting treatment. According to the treatment response after 6 months, the results were classified into four levels: Grade 1, complete resolution achieved; Grade 2, with ≥50% reduction in size of IH; Grade 3, with <50% reduction in size of IH; Grade 4, no response or worsening of IH. A total of 67 patients were involved in the study (17 boys, 50 girls; mean age, 3.6 months, range, 1.1-7.2 months) and randomized to receive oral propranolol combined with or without intralesional injection of lauromacrogol (29 in PRO group, 38 in PRO + LAU group). All patients completed treatment. Eleven patients (37.9%) in PRO group were in Grade 1, 14 patients (48.3%) in Grade 2, 4 patients (13.8%) in Grade 3, compared with these in PRO + LAU group, 11 patients (28.9%) in Grade 1, 24 patients (63.2%) in Grade 2, and 3 patients (7.9%) in Grade 3. No patient was in Grade 4, and no severe side effects were observed in both group. In PRO group, it takes an average of 17.1 ± 5.4 weeks from the start of treatment to cure, and in PRO + LAU group, the average time is 13.7 ± 4.9 weeks. Oral propranolol with intralesional injection of lauromacrogol was a safety treatment strategy for IH. But it was not superior to oral propranolol in final cure rates (P = 0.45), moreover, it cannot certainly offer the benefits of shortening the duration of oral drug treatment (P = 0.24).

Thirty days of double-strain probiotic supplementation increases monocyte phagocytosis in marathon runners.

Marathon runners, subjected to intense training regimens and prolonged, exhaustive exercises, often experience a compromised immune response. Probiotic supplementation has emerged as a potential remedy to mitigate the impact of prolonged exercise on athletes. Consequently, this study sought to assess the influence of probiotic supplementation on monocyte functionality both before and after the official marathon race. Twenty-seven runners were randomly and double-blindly assigned to two groups: placebo (n 13) and probiotic (PRO) (n 14). Over 30 d, both groups received supplements - placebo sachets containing maltodextrin (5 g/d) and PRO sachets containing 1 × 1010 colony-forming unit Lactobacillus acidophilus and 1 × 1010 colony-forming unit Bifidobacterium bifidum subsp. lactis. Blood samples were collected, and immunological assays, including phagocytosis, hydrogen peroxide production, cytokine levels and monocyte immunophenotyping, were conducted at four different intervals: baseline (start of supplementation/30 d pre-marathon), 24 h-before (1 d pre-marathon), 1 h-after (1 h post-marathon) and 5 d-after (5 d post-marathon). Monocyte populations remained consistent throughout the study. A notable increase in phagocytosis was observed in the PRO group after 30 d of supplementation. Upon lipopolysaccharide stimulation, both PRO and placebo groups exhibited decreased IL-8 production. However, after the marathon race, IL-15 stimulation demonstrated increased levels of 5 d-after, while IL-1-β, IL-8, IL-10, IL-15 and TNF-α varied across different intervals, specifically within the PRO group. Probiotic supplementation notably enhanced the phagocytic capacity of monocytes. However, these effects were not sustained post-marathon.

Incremental supply of fat, lactose, or protein influences the diurnal pattern of heat production and substrate oxidation in preweaning calves

Increasing nutrient supply to dairy calves has well known benefits; however, the effects of milk replacer (MR) composition when supplied in higher amounts are not fully understood, particularly in the first weeks of life. To better understand the metabolism of macronutrient supply in young calves (21 d old), we investigated diurnal patterns of heat production and substrate oxidation in young calves fed MR with an incremental supply of fat, lactose, or protein. Thirty-two groups of 3 mixed-sex Holstein-Friesian newborn calves (3.4 ± 1.6 d of age), were randomly assigned to one of 4 dietary treatments and studied for 21 d. Diets consisted of a basal MR (23.3% CP, 21.2% EE, and 48.8% lactose of DM) fed at 550 kJ/kg BW0.85 per day (CON; n = 24), or the basal MR incrementally supplied with 126 kJ of digestible energy/BW0.85 per day as milk fat (+FAT; n = 23), lactose (+LAC; n = 24), or milk protein (+PRO; n = 23). Calves were fed MR in 2 daily meals and had ad libitum access to water, but were not supplied with any calf starter nor forage. After 2 weeks of adaptation to the diets, groups of 3 calves were placed for 1 wk in an open-circuit respiration chamber for nitrogen and energy balance measurements (lasting 7 d). On d 3, glucose oxidation kinetics was estimated by using [U-13C]glucose. Measurements included total heat production (total energy [HP], activity [Hact] expenditure, resting metabolic rate [RMR]), respiration quotient (RQ), carbohydrate (COX) and fat oxidation (FOX) in 10 min. intervals and averaging these values per hour over days. Incremental supply of lactose and fat increased body fat deposition, with observed patterns in RMR indicating that this increase occurred primarily after the meals. Specifically, the average daily RMR was highest in the +PRO group and lowest in the CON treatment. The HP was higher in the +PRO group and throughout the day, hourly means of HP were higher in this treatment mainly caused by an increase in Hact. The recovery of 13CO2 from oral pulse-dosed [U-13C]glucose was high (77%), and not significantly different between treatments, indicating that ingested lactose was oxidized to a similar extent across treatments. Increasing lactose supply in young calves increased fat retention by reduction in fatty oxidation. Calves fed a MR with additional protein or fat raised RMR persistently throughout the day, whereas the extra lactose supply only affects RMR after the meal. Dietary glucose was almost completely oxidized (77% based on (13C) glucose measurement) regardless of nutrient supplementation. Extra protein supply increased HP and FOX compared with similar intakes of fat and lactose. Fasting heat production (FHP) of young, group-housed calves is comparable to literature values and unaffected by energy intake. Overall, these findings deepen our understanding of how different nutrients affect metabolic processes, fat retention, and energy expenditure in young dairy calves.

Short communication: Effects of a commercial triple-strain Bacillus-based probiotic on cecal colonization with Salmonella Enteritidis in commercial layer pullets

A commercial triple-strain Bacillus-based probiotic was tested to determine its effect on the colonization of the ceca by Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) in commercial layer pullets. Two treatments were tested, each with containing 128 day-of-hatch LSL layer chicks. On top of a standard diet: 1) no supplement (Control, CON), and 2) Probiotic (GalliPro® Fit, 500 g/MT, 1.6 × 106 CFU/g of finished feed, PRO). Environmental swabs were collected from each treatment group and tested to ensure freedom from SE prior to challenge. At 21 days of age, the SE challenge strain was administered orally at a dose of 3.3 × 108 CFU/bird. Pullets from each treatment group (n=32) were euthanized at 6-, 10-, 14-, and 18-days post infection (dpi). Contents from the ceca were aseptically collected and assessed for presence and abundance of SE. No differences in the prevalence of SE positive ceca following oral inoculation (P>0.05) were observed between treatment groups at 6-, 10-, 14-, or 18-dpi. Counts of SE in the ceca of the PRO group were not significantly different (P>0.05) from those of CON at 6- or 10-dpi. However, significantly lower counts of SE in the ceca of the PRO group were observed at 14-dpi (P<0.05) and 18-dpi (P<0.05) compared with CON. SE counts were 1.24 and 1.34 logs lower than CON at 14- and 18-dpi, respectively. In conclusion, supplementation of the triple-strain Bacillus-based probiotic resulted in lower cecal counts of SE compared to those that did not receive an effective probiotic, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne pathogens prior to harvest through sustainable, natural methods.

Social Media Construction of Political Hegemony: Analysis of the 2024 Indonesian Presidential Candidates Debate First Round

This research aims to analyze the construction of social media in the context of political hegemony during the first round of the 2024 Indonesian presidential debate. Employing a social media analysis approach, this study explores how social media serves as a crucial platform in shaping and directing public opinion and how viral narratives can influence political dynamics and polarization in society. The findings reveal that social media plays a significant role as the primary platform creating a polarization of public opinion, dividing users into pro and contra groups regarding the presidential candidates. Dominant narratives are often triggered by controversial speeches or responses, sparking emotional and intense discussions among social media users. This research also highlights the importance of contextual understanding and the sustainability of facts in addressing challenges posed by distorted perceptions in the digital world. Small groups with extreme views play a crucial role in creating an echo chamber, where their perspectives are reinforced and influence wider conversations. Panelists and debate moderators also have a significant impact on shaping perceptions of presidential Candidates performances. This study provides in-depth insights into the complex dynamics of social media in the political context, opening the door to a better understanding of its influence on public opinion and social political dynamics.

Application of innovative biostimulants for growth and quality improvement in vegetable and ornamental crops

Research objective: This research aims to evaluate the biostimulant potential of some innovative products that can improve germination, growth and protection from biotic stresses on some vegetable and ornamental species. Materials and Methods: The experiments, which started in October 2022, were conducted in the CREA-OF greenhouses in Pescia (Pt), on Cichorium intybus and Crassula rupestris plants. The experimental groups were: i) group control, irrigated with water and previously fertilised substrate; ii) biofertiliser Ecklonia maxima, dilution 1:1000, 5 ml of this dilution once a week per plant; iii) Elixir lite, irrigated with water and substrate previously fertilised; iv) Immuno pro group, irrigated with water and substrate previously fertilised; Harvest boost group, irrigated with water and substrate previously fertilised. On 23 January 2024, plant height, number of leaves, vegetative weight, root volume and length, number of microorganisms and pH of the substrate were determined. In addition, the mortality of the plants in the nursery was assessed. Results and Discussion: The experiment showed that the use of biostimulants can significantly improve the vegetative and root growth of Cichorium intybus and Crassula rupestris plants. In general, a significant increase in plant height, vegetative and root weight and root length was observed, particularly in the Elixir lite treatment. There was also a significant increase in the microbial colonisation of the substrate with all innovative biostimulant treatments, while the pH remained practically unchanged. The Immuno pro treatment was the best in terms of reducing plant mortality in all two plant species. Biostimulants are widely used in horticulture because we often work with short-cycle crops, varying from a few weeks to a few months. The rapid succession of different crops implies a constant supply of nutrients and intensive use of soil. More intensive horticulture in particular often benefits from the effect of biostimulant treatments due to the increased resource use efficiency of the crops. Foliar biostimulants are mainly used by farmers to increase the production of both leaf and fruit vegetable crops. The positive effects of their use are exerted both on increasing the content of secondary metabolites and on a general improvement of nutrient uptake efficiency. These biological effects can be attributed to the presence in biostimulants of polysaccharides, extracted from algae, such as alginates and carrageenan, which are responsible for two important biological actions: sequestering or slowly releasing nutrients. In fruit vegetables, biostimulants can also improve the homogeneity of flowering and fruit size, as reported for peppers. Commercial biostimulants have increased the unit yield of many leafy vegetable species by acting on nutrient uptake by the plant. Conclusions: In horticultural production, in open field and in protected crops, the application of biostimulants is aimed at achieving one or more of the following objectives: to favour a rapid emergence of seedlings in direct sowing crops or a rapid overcoming of the transplanting crisis; to precociate the entry into production; to increase growth, flowering, fruit set and fruit growth; to improve product quality; to increase the efficiency of nutrient use and tolerance to environmental stresses.

Sex-Related Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With Self-Expanding or Balloon-Expandable Valves: Insights from the OPERA-TAVI Registry

Evidence regarding gender-related differences in response to transcatheter aortic valve implantation according to the valve type is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of gender on the treatment effect of Evolut PRO/PRO+ (PRO) or SAPIEN 3 Ultra (ULTRA) devices on clinical outcomes. The Comparative Analysis of Evolut PRO vs SAPIEN 3 Ultra Valves for Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (OPERA-TAVI) is a multicenter, multinational registry including patients who underwent the latest-iteration PRO or ULTRA implantation. Overall, 1,174 of 1,897 patients were matched based on valve type and compared according to gender, whereas 470 men and 630 women were matched and compared according to valve type. The 30-day and 1-year outcomes were evaluated. In the PRO and ULTRA groups, men had a higher co-morbidity burden, whereas women had smaller aortic root. The 30-day (device success [DS], early safety outcome, permanent pacemaker implantation, patient-prosthesis mismatch, paravalvular regurgitation, bleedings, vascular complications, and all-cause death) and 1-year outcomes (all-cause death, stroke, and heart failure hospitalization) did not differ according to gender in both valve groups. However, the male gender decreased the likelihood of 30-day DS with ULTRA versus PRO (p for interaction = 0.047). A higher risk of 30-day permanent pacemaker implantation and 1-year stroke and a lower risk of patient-prosthesis mismatch was observed in PRO versus ULTRA, regardless of gender. In conclusion, gender did not modify the treatment effect of PRO versus ULTRA on clinical outcomes, except for 30-day DS, which was decreased in men (vs women) who received ULTRA (vs PRO).

Prone Split-Leg vs Galdakao-Modified Supine Valdivia Position During Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery: A Noninferiority Design Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose: Endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) combines percutaneous nephrolithotomy and ureteroscopy. This procedure has become common with the development of the prone split-leg (PRO) and Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia (GMSV) positions. In this study, we evaluated the surgical outcomes of these positions during ECIRS. Materials and Methods: A noninferior randomized controlled trial was performed in accordance with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials. The eligibility criteria were age 20 to 80 years and presence of &gt; 15-mm renal and/or ureteral stones. They were assigned to the PRO or GMSV groups and underwent ECIRS in the PRO or GMSV position, respectively. The primary outcome was stone-free rate (SFR) 3 months after surgery. The secondary outcomes were surgical outcomes—surgery time, percutaneous access time, and complication rate. A noninferiority margin of 30% was used. Results: Eighty-six patients (46 in the PRO group and 43 in the GMSV group) were analyzed. The SFR was 91.3% and 90.7% in the PRO and GMSV groups, respectively. No between-group differences were observed regarding the overall complication rates. Percutaneous access time was longer in the PRO group than in the GMSV group for upper calyx punctures, whereas surgery and percutaneous access times were shorter in the PRO group for those with a middle calyx puncture. Conclusions: Surgical position did not affect the success rates. There was no difference in complications between the groups, except for perinephric hematoma formation.

Maximum strength and power as determinants of on-ice sprint performance in elite U16 to adult ice hockey players.

In ice hockey, speed strength is one of the major physical key performance indicators, which is significantly influenced by maximum strength. The objective of this study was to evaluate the age-dependent relationship of off-ice maximum strength and vertical jump performance with on-ice linear sprint performance, considering age and performance level. Ninety-one male youth and adult professional ice hockey players (age: 19.3 ± 5.49 years) were recruited and divided into four age groups: under 16, 18, 21 years old and professional elite players (Pro) (i.e., > 21 years). They were tested in maximal isometric strength, squat jump (loaded and unloaded), countermovement jump and on-ice sprint performance (15 m and 30 m linear sprint; 15 m flying linear sprint). Statistical analysis revealed that on-ice sprint performance correlated with isometric strength performance (r = |0.34|-|0.63|) and with off-ice jump performance (r = |0.61|-|0.77|) without an influence of age group or performance level. However, performance differed between age groups and performance level, the largest differences being found between the youngest age group (U16) and the Pro group (g = 0.966-3.281). The present study shows that maximum strength influences on-ice sprint performances in ice hockey players, as well as performance differences between age groups and professional players. Strength and jumping performance should therefore be included in regular performance testing in ice hockey. Since performance differences are observed for almost all strength and speed-strength performances of the youth teams to the Pros, training of these variables is strongly recommended to improve in the transition phase from junior to elite level.

Multi-Omics Analysis to Understand the Effects of Dietary Proanthocyanidins on Antioxidant Capacity, Muscle Nutrients, Lipid Metabolism, and Intestinal Microbiota in Cyprinus carpio.

Proanthocyanidins (Pros), a natural polyphenolic compound found in grape seed and other plants, have received significant attention as additives in animal feed. However, the specific mechanism by which Pros affect fish health remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of dietary Pro on common carp by evaluating biochemical parameters and multi-omics analysis. The results showed that Pro supplementation improved antioxidant capacity and the contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 and n-6) and several bioactive compounds. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that dietary Pro caused an upregulation of the sphingolipid catabolic process and the lysosome pathway, while simultaneously downregulating intestinal cholesterol absorption and the PPAR signaling pathway in the intestines. Compared to the normal control (NC) group, the Pro group exhibited higher diversity in intestinal microbiota and an increased relative abundance of Cetobacterium and Pirellula. Furthermore, the Pro group had a lower Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and a decreased relative abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria. Collectively, dietary Pro improved antioxidant ability, muscle nutrients, and the diversity and composition of intestinal microbiota. The regulation of lipid metabolism and improvement in muscle nutrients were linked with changes in the intestinal microbiota.

Combination of Host-Associated Rummeliibacillus sp. and Microbacterium sp. Positively Modulated the Growth, Feed Utilization, and Intestinal Microbial Population of Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus).

Two novel strains of Rummeliibacillus sp. and Microbacterium sp. were identified from the intestine of olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) and characterized in vitro as potential probiotics. Feeds without probiotic and with a 50:50 mixture of these two strains (1 × 108 CFU/g feed) were denoted as the control and Pro diets, respectively. Three randomly selected tanks (20 flounders/tank, ~11.4 g each) were used for each diet replication. After 8 weeks of feeding, the growth and feed utilization of the flounder in the Pro group improved (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Among four immune parameters, only myeloperoxidase activity was elevated in the Pro group. Serum biochemistry, intestinal microbial richness (Chao1), and diversity (Shannon index) remained unchanged (p ≥ 0.05), but phylogenetic diversity was enriched in the Pro fish intestine. Significantly lower Firmicutes and higher Proteobacteria were found in the Pro diet; the genus abundance in the control and Pro was as follows: Staphylococcus > Lactobacillus > Corynebacterium and Lactobacillus > Staphylococcus > Corynebacterium, respectively. Microbial linear discriminant scores and a cladogram analysis showed significant modulation. Therefore, the combination of two host-associated probiotics improved the growth and intestinal microbial population of flounder and could be supplemented in the Korean flounder industry.

203 The Effects of Daily Supplementation of Selected Probiotic and Postbiotic on the Microbiome of Adult Cats

Abstract Probiotics, defined as “live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host” have been shown to beneficially affect health aspects, including body mass index, immune system modulation, and oxidative stress. There are still limited data on the microbiome and the probiotic effects in cats compared with humans. Looking into the feline microbiome could help us understand more about the gut health of these animals. This study was a complete randomized design with 36 cats [mean age = 4.98 1.97 yr; mean body condition score (BCS) = 6.33 1.08] divided into 3 treatments (n = 12/trt). Animals were fed a standard extruded commercial diet. The treatments used were control diet + placebo (maltodextrin carrier; CON), control diet + Probiotic (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis CECT8145; daily dosage: CFU/cat; PRO), and control diet + postbiotic (Heat-killed B. animalis subsp. lactis CECT8145; daily dosage: CFU/cat; POST). The objective of this study was to identify and analyze the effects of a selected probiotic and its heat-killed form on the feline microbiome. Fresh fecal samples were collected on days 0 and 90, DNA was extracted and sequenced using the method of ‘Whole Shotgun Sequencing’, abundance comparisons were carried out with the R limma voom package (3.48.3v) to find taxonomic groups and for pathway analysis, it was performed a differential abundance analysis at L3 between day 0 and 90 in each group and abundance comparisons between groups depending on time. Relative abundance of B. animalis increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) over time in cats in the PRO group, which suggests potential colonization of the B. animalis fed in the live form in the feline gut. Cats in the CON group had an increment abundance of metabolites involved in carbon metabolism pathways and amino acid biosynthesis when compared with PRO and POST, whilst there was a decrease in the abundance of membrane transport, biofilm formation, and bacterial motility pathways in the CON group. In conclusion, the use of the probiotic and postbiotic had a similar effect on the overall feline metabolism, although more studies are needed to determine if B. animalis subsp. Lactis CECT 8145 can induce beneficial outcomes to the feline microbiome.