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The countermovement jump (CMJ) has been suggested to be an important test of neuromuscular performance for rugby league (RL) players. Identifying force platform-derived CMJ variables that may be more applicable to RL positions (e.g., forwards and backs) has yet to be fully explored in the scientific literature. The aim of this study was to identify RL position-specific CMJ force-time variables. Specifically, we aimed to compare select force-time variables from the countermovement (i.e., the combination of unweighting and braking) and propulsion phases of the CMJ between the global forwards and backs positional groups. We also aimed to compare typical (i.e., jump height) and alternative (i.e., take-off momentum) outcome CMJ variables between positional groups. Finally, we sought to visually present each individual player’s CMJ performance alongside the average data to facilitate the interpretation and reporting of the CMJ performances of RL athletes. Twenty-seven forwards and twenty-seven backs who competed in the senior men’s English RL Championship, performed three CMJs on a force platform at the beginning of the pre-season training period. There were no significant differences in any countermovement or propulsion phase variable between positions with just small effect sizes noted (P ≥0.09, d ≤0.46). Jump height (and so take-off velocity) was significantly greater for backs with moderate effects displayed (P = 0.03, d = 0.60). Take-off momentum (take-off velocity × body mass) was largely and significantly greater for forwards (Pd = 1.01). There was considerable overlap of individual player’s body mass and CMJ outcome variables across positions, despite significant differences in the mean values attained by each positional group. The results suggest that it may be beneficial for RL practitioners to identify player-specific, or at least position-specific, variables. As a minimum, it may be worthwhile selecting CMJ force-time variables based on what is considered important to individual player’s or small clusters of similar players’ projected successes during RL competition.

Safe use of immune checkpoint blockade in patients with cancer and autoimmune disorders requires a better understanding of the pathophysiology of immunologic activation. We describe the immune correlates of reactivation of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA)—an antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis—in a patient with metastatic urothelial carcinoma treated with pembrolizumab. After PD-1 blockade, an inflammatory pulmonary nodule demonstrated a granulomatous, CD4+ T-cell infiltrate, correlating with increased CD4+ and CD8+ naïve memory cells in the peripheral blood without changes in other immune checkpoint receptors. Placed within the context of the existing literature on GPA and disease control, our findings suggest a key role for PD-1 in GPA self-tolerance and that selective strategies for immunotherapy may be needed in patients with certain autoimmune disorders. We further summarize the current literature regarding reactivation of autoimmune disorders in patients undergoing immune checkpoint blockade, as well as potential immunosuppressive strategies to minimize the risks of further vasculitic reactivation upon rechallenge with anti-PD-1 blockade. Key Points Nonspecific imaging findings in patients with cancer and rheumatological disorders may require biopsy to distinguish underlying pathology. Patients with rheumatologic disorders have increased risk of reactivation with PD-(L)1 immune checkpoint blockade, requiring assessment of disease status before starting treatment. Further study is needed to evaluate the efficacy of treatment regimens in preventing and controlling disease reactivation.