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Muscle injuries are the leading cause of sports casualties. Because of its high plasticity, skeletal muscle can respond to different stimuli to maintain and improve functionality. Intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (IHH) improves muscle oxygen delivery and utilization. Hypobaria coexists with cold in the biosphere, opening the possibility to consider the combined use of both environmental factors to achieve beneficial physiological adjustments. We studied the effects of IHH and cold exposure, separately and simultaneously, on muscle regeneration. Adult male rats were surgically injured in one gastrocnemius and randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) CTRL: passive recovery; (2) COLD: intermittently exposed to cold (4°C); (3) HYPO: submitted to IHH (4500 m); (4) COHY: exposed to intermittent simultaneous cold and hypoxia. Animals were subjected to these interventions for 4 h/day for 9 or 21 days. COLD and COHY rats showed faster muscle regeneration than CTRL, evidenced after 9 days at histological (dMHC‐positive and centrally nucleated fibre reduction) and functional levels after 21 days. HYPO rats showed a full recovery from injury (at histological and functional levels) after 9 days, while COLD and COHY needed more time to induce a total functional recovery. IHH can be postulated as an anti‐fibrotic treatment since it reduces collagen I deposition. The increase in the pSer473Akt/total Akt ratio observed after 9 days in COLD, HYPO and COHY, together with the increase in the pThr172AMPKα/total AMPKα ratio observed in the gastrocnemius of HYPO, provides clues to the molecular mechanisms involved in the improved muscle regeneration. Key points: Only intermittent hypobaric exposure accelerated muscle recovery as early as 9 days following injury at histological and functional levels.Injured muscles from animals treated with intermittent (4 h/day) cold, hypobaric hypoxia or a simultaneous combination of both stimuli regenerated histological structure and recovered muscle function 21 days after injury.The combination of cold and hypoxia showed a blunting effect as compared to hypoxia alone in the time course of the muscle recovery.The increased expression of the phosphorylated forms of Akt observed in all experimental groups could participate in the molecular cascade of events leading to a faster regeneration.The elevated levels of phosphorylated AMPKα in the HYPO group could play a key role in the modulation of the inflammatory response during the first steps of the muscle regeneration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle injury is defined as an overuse injury or traumatic distraction of a muscle, which is latent in any sport event, from amateur to large events. Based on previous numbers of muscle injuries and time spent to the athletes' recovery, the use of dietary functional factors intervention strategies is essential to enhance the recovery process and health. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that biologically active peptides played an important role in sports nutrition and muscle injure recovery. Food-derived bioactive peptides were physiologically active peptides mostly derived from proteins following hydrolysis, which could be resorbed in intact form to reduce muscle damage following exercise and induce beneficial adaptions within the connective tissue. However, the complexity of the histoarchitectural considerations for skeletal muscle injuries and the repair mechanism of damaged skeletal muscle were not well known. In the following overview, the potential mechanisms and possible limitations regarding the damaged skeletal muscle metabolism were summarized, which aimed to present an overview of the nutritional strategies and recommendations after a muscular sports injury, emphasizing the use of main bioactive peptides. In addition, this review will provide implications for the studies of dietary bioactive peptides in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe the injury mechanism and situational patterns of severe (absence >28 days) hamstring muscle injuries in professional male and female football (soccer) players. Methods: The data for males were sourced from Serie A clubs participating in both national and international competitions from 2018 to 2021. For the female cohort, hamstring injuries were identified during matches of the top national/international competitions from 2017 to 2023. Video footage was obtained, and three raters categorised injury mechanisms and situational patterns. Injuries were also examined according to the month, minute and location. Results: A total of 129 severe hamstring injuries were identified, with 64 occurring in females and 65 in males. Video analysis was possible for 29 (45%) female cases and 61 (94%) male cases. Female injuries had longer lay‐off times (97.8 ± 77.1 days) than males (39.6 ± 20.9 days). Females had a higher proportion of indirect contact injuries (34%) than males (13%) and a lower proportion of non‐contact injuries (66% vs. 87%). Four situational patterns were identified: running was the most common for both sexes, representing 59% of female injuries and 41% of male injuries. Over‐stretching injuries were split across open and CKC scenarios but collectively explained nearly half (48%) of male injuries but only one in five (21%) female injuries. Kicking injuries had a higher proportion in females (17%) than males (10%). Injuries were more common in the second half for females and the first half for males. Conclusion: Females had a higher proportion of indirect contact, running and kicking injuries and a lower proportion of non‐contact and stretch‐type injuries than males. Understanding injury patterns can inform tailored prevention programs, considering sex‐specific differences. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the outcomes of cabozantinib in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC), focusing on dose setting and modification. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 34 Japanese patients who received cabozantinib for uHCC. Trough concentrations (Ctrough) of cabozantinib were also measured weekly for 6 weeks in the 18 patients. Results: Sixteen patients received ≥40 mg (high‐dose group), and 18 patients received 20 mg (low‐dose group). Dose escalations were performed in 27.8% of the patients in the low‐dose group. Although median duration of the first dose reduction or interruption in the low‐dose group was twice that in the high‐dose group (28 vs. 14 days, p < 0.001), there were no significant differences in the relative dose intensity (RDI) during 6 weeks, progression free survival (PFS), and overall survival (p = 0.162, p = 0.950, p = 0.817, respectively) between the two groups. Patients who received RDI during 6 weeks ≥33.4% showed a trend toward longer median PFS (p = 0.054). Each serum aldolase value during the 6 weeks was significantly correlated with the Ctrough at any point (r = 0.500, p < 0.001). In multivariate analyses, aldolase ≥8.7 U/L within 2 weeks was significantly associated with the very early dose reduction or interruption (odds ratio 20.0, p = 0.002). Conclusions: An initial dose of 20 mg cabozantinib could be a safe option in Japanese patients. The serum aldolase value could be useful for making appropriate dose modifications of cabozantinib. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Sleep disturbances exacerbate chronic pain, increase psychological load, and increase inflammation. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) mimics aspects of chronic pain, predominantly affecting peripheral pain mechanisms, while experimental sleep provocations have been shown to impact central pain mechanisms. This study aimed to combine a DOMS model with total sleep deprivation (TSD) to create a novel model affecting both peripheral and central pain mechanisms. A total of 30 healthy participants attended two sessions (baseline and follow‐up) separated by 24 h of TSD and a home rating after 48 h. Assessments of interleukin 6 (IL‐6) levels, sleep quality, pain catastrophising, affect, and symptoms of depression and anxiety were included in the baseline and follow‐up sessions. Additionally, pressure pain and tolerance thresholds, temporal summation, and conditioned pain modulation (CPM) were assessed using cuff‐pressure algometry in the baseline and follow‐up sessions. DOMS was induced with eccentric calf raises during the baseline session followed by 24 h of TSD. At follow‐up pain tolerance (p = 0.012) was significantly reduced, and CPM (p = 0.036) was significantly impaired compared to baseline. Psychological changes included decreases in pain catastrophising (p = 0.027), positive affect (p < 0.001), negative affect (p = 0.003), and anxiety (p = 0.012). Explorative regression models predicted 58% and 68% of DOMS pain intensity after 24 and 48 h, respectively, based on baseline body mass index, pain thresholds, psychological measures, and IL‐6 (p < 0.01). Combining DOMS with 1 night of TSD induced pain hypersensitivity, impaired CPM, and altered psychological states. A combination of baseline inflammation, psychological measures, and pain sensitivity significantly predicted DOMS pain intensity after 24 and 48 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute limb ischemia (ALI) is a sudden lack of blood flow to a limb, primarily caused by arterial embolism and thrombosis. Various experimental animal models, including non-invasive and invasive methods, have been developed and successfully used to induce limb ischemia-reperfusion injuries (L-IRI). However, there is no consensus on the methodologies used in animal models for L-IRI, particularly regarding the assessment of functional recovery. The present study aims to compare different approaches that induce L-IRI and determine the optimal animal model to study functional limb recovery. In this study, we applied a pneumatic cuff as a non-invasive method and ligated the aorta, iliac, or femoral artery as invasive methods to induce L-IRI. We have measured grip strength, motor function, creatine kinase level, inflammatory markers such as nuclear factor NF-κB, interleukin-6 (IL-6), hypoxia markers such as hypoxia-induced factor-1 α (HIF-1 α ), and evaluated the muscle injury with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining in Sprague Dawley rats after inducing L-IRI. The pneumatic pressure cuff method significantly decreased the muscle strength of the rats, causing the loss of ability to hold the grid and inducing significant limb function impairment, while artery ligations did not. We conclude from this study that the tourniquet cuff method could be ideal for studying functional recovery after L-IRI in the rat model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Cold water immersion methods are not standardized in terms of operational indicators such as immersion temperature, duration and depth, leading to controversy over the efficacy of recovery from exercise fatigue in skeletal muscle. In this article, we analyze the effects of cold water immersion on muscle injury, muscle soreness and muscle strength recovery under different factors, in order to find the best immersion implementation plan, and thus provide evidence for the recovery of muscle fatigue. METHODS: A search of CNKI, WanFang Data, Web of Science, and PubMed databases was conducted for relevant literature published from January 1, 2000 to August 15, 2023. A total of 4 759 articles were initially retrieved, with 4 735 articles excluded through screening and 24 articles finally included. The Physical Therapy Evidence Database Scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the included literature, and Stata-MP 16 software was used to perform effect size combinations, subgroup analyses, Meta-regression, sensitivity tests, and publication bias analyses. RESULTS: (1) The article included a total of 24 randomized controlled trial studies, including 617 subjects, with overall high legal quality. (2) Meta-analysis showed that cold water immersion can significantly reduce creatine kinase blood value [standardized mean difference (SMD)=-0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.29 to -0.05, P < 0.01], alleviate muscle pain (SMD=-0.60, 95% CI: -0.81 to -0.38, P < 0.01), and promote maximum muscle strength recovery (SMD=0.17, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.30, P < 0.01). (3) Subgroup analysis showed that: The immersing regimen with water temperature > 14 °C (SMD=-0.48, 95% CI: -0.76 to -0.20, P < 0.01) and duration of 12-14 minutes (SMD=-0.38, 95% CI: -0.61 to -0.15, P < 0.01) had the best effect in reducing creatine kinase blood values, and had a more significant intervention effect on endurance exercise (SMD=-0.45, 95% CI: -0.71 to -0.20, P < 0.01), while the immersion regimen with water temperature < 10 °C (SMD=-0.61, 95% CI: -0.79 to -0.43, P < 0.01), duration < 12 minutes (SMD=-0.76, 95% CI: -0.98 to -0.53, P < 0.01), and immersion depth above the iliac spine (SMD=-0.74, 95% CI: -0.97 to -0.52, P < 0.01) had the best effect on relieving muscle soreness, and had a more significant analgesic effect after endurance exercise (SMD=-0.42, 95% CI: -0.61 to -0.22, P < 0.01). (4) Meta regression showed that immersion water temperature, immersion duration, and exercise type were important regulatory factors affecting the effect size of creatine kinase; immersing water temperature and immersing depth were important regulatory factors affecting the effect size of visual analogue scale score, while exercise type was an important regulatory factor affecting the maximum isometric muscle strength effect size. CONCLUSION: (1) Evidence of extremely low to moderate strength suggests that cold water immersion can effectively reduce muscle damage, alleviate muscle soreness, and promote muscle strength recovery. (2) In terms of reducing muscle injury, immersion water temperature, immersion duration, and exercise type are significant regulatory factors that affect the efficacy of immersing. Among them, immersion water temperature > 14 °C and duration of 12-14 minutes are the best solutions to reduce muscle injury after exercise, and the immersing effect is better for endurance exercise. (3) In terms of reducing muscle soreness, immersion water temperature and immersion depth are important regulatory factors that affect the intervention effect. Among them, immersion water temperature < 10 °C, duration < 12 minutes, and immersing depth above the iliac spine are the best solutions to reduce muscle soreness, and have a better analgesic effect after endurance exercise. (4) In terms of promoting muscle strength recovery, exercise type is a key regulatory factor that affects the maximum isometric muscle strength effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Context: The performance of sprints during male soccer matches usually is slow medium paced, where the soleus and gastrocnemius (ankle plantar flexors) play a very important role. As in male soccer, soleus injuries should be considered in female soccer; but the scientific evidence is very limited in this case. Design: Pilot clinical trial study. Objective: To determine whether adding an ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis (US-guided PNE) technique to a specific exercise program improved perceived pain at stretching and at palpation, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, muscle fatigue, and sport performance in women soccer players with soleus injury. Methods: This pilot study recruited 20 female players with chronic soleus injury (type 1, characterized by hypoechoic image) who were assigned to one of 2 groups: an experimental group (exercise program + US-guided PNE; n = 10) or a control group (exercise program + sham stimulation; n = 10). Pain intensity, dorsiflexion range of motion, knee-flexion heel raise test, curve sprint test, and the global rating of change scale were analyzed at baseline and after treatment (4 wk) and there was no further follow-up. Results: Pain intensity at palpation and at stretching, dorsiflexion range of motion, and heel raise test values showed significant improvements (P < .05) between pretreatment and posttreatment for both groups, however, no significant differences were observed between groups. Curve sprint tests did not show significant differences between pretreatment and posttreatment for either group or between groups. However, the percentage of changes always revealed better values in favor of the PNE group. Both groups showed good player satisfaction with the therapies. Conclusion: The application of the US-guided PNE combined with a specific exercise program may cause clinical benefits in the treatment of female soccer players with soleus injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Changes in protein turnover play an important role in dynamic physiological processes, including skeletal muscle regeneration, which occurs as an essential part of tissue repair after injury. The inability of muscle tissue to recapitulate this regenerative process can lead to the manifestation of clinical symptoms in various musculoskeletal diseases, including muscular dystrophies and pathological atrophy. Here, we employed a workflow that couples deuterated water (2H2O) administration with mass spectrometry (MS) to systematically measure in-vivo protein turnover rates across the muscle proteome in 8-week-old male C57BL6/J mice. We compared the turnover kinetics of over 100 proteins in response to cardiotoxin (CTX) induced muscle damage and regeneration at unique sequential stages along the regeneration timeline. This analysis is compared to gene expression data from mRNA-sequencing (mRNA-seq) from the same tissue. The data reveals quantitative protein flux signatures in response to necrotic damage, in addition to sequential differences in cell proliferation, energy metabolism, and contractile gene expression. Interestingly, the mRNA changes correlated poorly with changes in protein synthesis rates, consistent with post-transcriptional control mechanisms. In summary, the experiments described here reveal the signatures and timing of protein flux changes during skeletal muscle regeneration, as well as the inability of mRNA expression measurements to reveal changes in directly measured protein turnover rates. The results of this work described here provide a better understanding of the muscle regeneration process and could help to identify potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.

Abstract Background Fibrosis is a significant pathological feature of chronic skeletal muscle injury, profoundly affecting muscle regeneration. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) have the ability to differentiate into myofibroblasts, acting as a primary source of extracellular matrix (ECM). the process by which FAPs differentiate into myofibroblasts during chronic skeletal muscle injury remains inadequately explored. Method mouse model with sciatic nerve denervated was constructed and miRNA expression profiles between the mouse model and uninjured mouse were analyzed. qRT/PCR and immunofluorescence elucidated the effect of miR-27b-3p on fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. Dual-luciferase reporter identified the target gene of miR-27b-3p, and finally knocked down or overexpressed the target gene and phosphorylation inhibition of Smad verified the influence of downstream molecules on the abundance of miR-27b-3p and fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs. Result FAPs derived from a mouse model with sciatic nerves denervated exhibited a progressively worsening fibrotic phenotype over time. Introducing agomiR-27b-3p effectively suppressed fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. MiR-27b-3p targeted Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor 1 (TGF-βR1) and the abundance of miR-27b-3p was negatively regulated by TGF-βR1/Smad. Conclusion miR-27b-3p targeting the TGF-βR1/Smad pathway is a novel mechanism for regulating fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs. Increasing abundance of miR-27b-3p, suppressing expression of TGF-βR1 and inhibiting phosphorylation of smad3 presented potential strategies for treating fibrosis in chronic skeletal muscle injury.

The term Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) refers to a complex injury entity which is based on ultrastructural injury patterns. The injury is usually harmless and heals within a few days without sequelae. However, at the time of the manifestation there are (sometimes considerable) performance limitations and the risk of possible secondary injuries is increased. Thus, prevention and treatment of DOMS, especially in high-performance sports, are of particular value. Insights into muscle biomechanics are necessary to understand the background and mechanisms of DOMS. The definition and classification of overload-related muscle injuries has not yet been uniformly determined. Fluid transitions between physiological, metabolic and neuromuscular fatigue as well as the actual occurrence of injuries with clinical symptoms make clear delineation difficult. The “Munich Classification” terms Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) as Type 1b muscle injury, “delayed onset muscle pain”. The central target of prevention of DOMS is to prevent or alleviate the onset of the initial damage, known as “Exercise Induced Muscle Damage” (EIMD). In case of manifest DOMS, the intention is both to relieve the attendant symptoms and to promote rapid restoration of muscle function. In clinical practice as in scientific research, diverse procedures and interventions have proven valuable, whereby especially physical therapy procedures like cryotherapy, heat therapy or compression therapy show promising study results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To the best of our knowledge, no studies have attempted to correlate athletic performance with muscle injuries sustained during Paralympic Games. Aim: This study reports the incidence, anatomical location, anatomical site classification, and relationship between competition results and anatomical site classification in athletes who participated in the Paralympic Games. Methods: All magnetic resonance images collected at the International Paralympic Committee polyclinic at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games were reviewed to identify the presence and anatomical site of muscle injuries. The athletes' competition results were reviewed using IPC data sources. Results: Twenty-six magnetic resonance imaging–detected muscle injuries were observed in 16 male and 10 female athletes. Muscle injuries were most commonly observed during track and field events (n = 20) and in athletes with visual impairment (n = 12). Ten of the injuries involved the tendon. Twenty-one of injured athletes (81%) completed their competition, whereas five athletes did not. Eight athletes won medals in the games. The anatomical site of muscle injury did not significantly impact the proportion of athletes who did not finish competition. Conclusions: Many athletes who sustained muscle injuries completed their competitions. No association was found between anatomical site classification and Paralympic athletes' performance in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to assess how post-game creatine kinase (CK) levels correlate with the number of sprints and the impact of the ACTN3 polymorphism on this response. This research constituted a descriptive/observational, retrospective cross-sectional study. DNA was extracted from blood samples for ACTN3 polymorphism genotyping. CK was measured 48 h after official matches, and the number of sprints (>19 km/h) was tracked using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. The main cohort included 23 professional soccer players from the top tier of the Brazilian Championship. We analyzed 115 GPS + CK data sets. The replication cohort comprised 18 professional soccer players from the First Division of the Championship, had the same methodology applied, and featured a total of 90 GPS (sprints > 25.2 km/h) + CK data sets. For the main cohort, a significant positive correlation was seen between the number of sprints and the CK levels (p = 0.009). Athletes with the ACTN3 RR genotype had higher CK levels as more sprints were performed during the match (p = 0.017). However, the relationship was not found for X allele carriers (p > 0.05). For the replication cohort, there was a near-significant correlation between CK levels and the number of sprints (p = 0.05), and RR individuals showed a significant association (p = 0.01), whereas X allele carriers did not (p = 0.06). A greater number of sprints during matches is linked to higher CK levels, primarily among players with the ACTN3 RR genotype, which is potentially due to an increased presence of type II muscle fibers. These findings were replicated for both cohorts of elite Brazilian soccer players, emphasizing the importance of genetic factors in injury prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Immunology Quaterly / Immunológia Szemle is the property of Medicina Konyvkiado Zrt. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Changes in protein turnover play an important role in dynamic physiological processes, including skeletal muscle regeneration, which occurs as an essential part of tissue repair after injury. The inability of muscle tissue to recapitulate this regenerative process can lead to the manifestation of clinical symptoms in various musculoskeletal diseases, including muscular dystrophies and pathological atrophy. Here, we employed a workflow that couples deuterated water (2H2O) administration with mass spectrometry (MS) to systematically measure in-vivo protein turnover rates across the muscle proteome in 8-week-old male C57BL6/J mice. We compared the turnover kinetics of over 100 proteins in response to cardiotoxin (CTX) induced muscle damage and regeneration at unique sequential stages along the regeneration timeline. This analysis is compared to gene expression data from mRNA-sequencing (mRNA-seq) from the same tissue. The data reveals quantitative protein flux signatures in response to necrotic damage, in addition to sequential differences in cell proliferation, energy metabolism, and contractile gene expression. Interestingly, the mRNA changes correlated poorly with changes in protein synthesis rates, consistent with post-transcriptional control mechanisms. In summary, the experiments described here reveal the signatures and timing of protein flux changes during skeletal muscle regeneration, as well as the inability of mRNA expression measurements to reveal changes in directly measured protein turnover rates. The results of this work described here provide a better understanding of the muscle regeneration process and could help to identify potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fibrosis is a significant pathological feature of chronic skeletal muscle injury, profoundly affecting muscle regeneration. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) have the ability to differentiate into myofibroblasts, acting as a primary source of extracellular matrix (ECM). the process by which FAPs differentiate into myofibroblasts during chronic skeletal muscle injury remains inadequately explored. Method: mouse model with sciatic nerve denervated was constructed and miRNA expression profiles between the mouse model and uninjured mouse were analyzed. qRT/PCR and immunofluorescence elucidated the effect of miR-27b-3p on fibrosis in vivo and in vitro. Dual-luciferase reporter identified the target gene of miR-27b-3p, and finally knocked down or overexpressed the target gene and phosphorylation inhibition of Smad verified the influence of downstream molecules on the abundance of miR-27b-3p and fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs. Result: FAPs derived from a mouse model with sciatic nerves denervated exhibited a progressively worsening fibrotic phenotype over time. Introducing agomiR-27b-3p effectively suppressed fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. MiR-27b-3p targeted Transforming Growth Factor Beta Receptor 1 (TGF-βR1) and the abundance of miR-27b-3p was negatively regulated by TGF-βR1/Smad. Conclusion: miR-27b-3p targeting the TGF-βR1/Smad pathway is a novel mechanism for regulating fibrogenic differentiation of FAPs. Increasing abundance of miR-27b-3p, suppressing expression of TGF-βR1 and inhibiting phosphorylation of smad3 presented potential strategies for treating fibrosis in chronic skeletal muscle injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has been widely used regardless of the severity of muscle strain, there have been very few basic studies in which its effects on muscle injury were examined by using models that accurately mimic the clinical muscle strain injury process. Therefore, the aim of this study was to confirm by physiological and structural analyses whether PRP purified by a general preparation method has a muscle healing effect on muscle damage caused by eccentric contraction (ECC). Male Wistar rats were subjected to muscle injury induced by ECC in bilateral plantar flexor muscles using electrical stimulation and an automatically dorsiflexing footplate. The rats were randomly assigned to three groups by type of injection: phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), leukocyte‐poor PRP (LP‐PRP), or leukocyte‐rich PRP (LR‐PRP) injection into gastrocnemius muscles three times at weekly intervals. The platelet concentrations of the LP‐PRP and LR‐PRP were three to five times higher than that of whole blood. The recovery process of torque strength in the plantar flexor muscle, signal changes in MRI images, and histological evaluation 3 weeks after injury showed no obvious differences among the three groups, and every muscle recovered well from the injury without marked fibrosis. The results that neither LP‐PRP nor LR‐PRP was found to accelerate healing of muscle injuries suggested that conventional preparation and use of PRP for simple muscle injuries caused by muscle strain should be carefully considered, and further basic research using models that accurately mimic clinical practice should be carried out to determine the optimal use of PRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Given the controversial use of the Acute:Chronic Workload Ratio (ACWR) in determining the availability of soccer players for training and matches, this study aimed at verifying how many professional soccer players had an ACWR above 1.5 (considered a 'danger zone') immediately before the exposure (training or match) in which they sustained a hamstring muscle injury. Methods: Forty-eight male soccer players of a professional team were monitored through global positioning system (GPS) in this 2-season retrospective study (10 participated in both seasons and 38 in a single season). The ACWR of total distance, high-speed running distance, very high-speed running distance, and the number of actions performed >19 km/h were calculated before all hamstring injuries and included in the analysis. Results: Twenty players sustained hamstring injuries. There was no time effect on the group's daily workload or the average workload over the 4 weeks before the injury (p > 0.05). Fifteen players (i.e., 75%) had ACWR below 1.5 for the four GPS metrics immediately before the training or match in which they sustained a hamstring injury. Five players (25%) were classified in the 'danger zone' (i.e., ACWR > 1.5) for the very high-speed running distance; 3 of these players were also in the 'danger zone' for high-speed running distance and the number of actions >19 km/h, and 2 players for the total distance. Conclusion: Since three-quarters of the hamstring injuries affecting professional soccer players were preceded by ACWR values below 1.5 in all GPS metrics, it is prudent for medical/coaching staff exercise caution when considering the ACWR 'danger zone' as the primary metric for determining player availability for training or matches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Musculoskeletal injuries are widespread causes of sport injuries. Ordinary therapy is inadequate for rapid healing. So, in this study, the therapeutic effects of platelet rich plasma (PRP) were investigated as it is simple, efficient, and minimally invasive, and lessen recovery time. Materials and Methods: Fifty-four adult male albino rats, were categorizes into four groups: Group I (control group). Group II had a crush injury to the right gastrocnemius muscle, then sacrificed after 2 hours. Group III received no treatment and were subdivided into subgroups III A and III B, each includes 6 rats sacrificed after 7 and 14 days, respectively. Group IV, were injected immediately after injury by 0.1 ml PRP in injury site, then were subdivided into subgroups IV A and IV B, each includes 6 rats sacrificed after 7 and 14 days, respectively. Blood samples were analyzed for serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) level. Sections from the middle part of the right gastrocnemius muscle were processed for histological assessment using H. and E., Masson trichrome stain, immunohistochemical staining for myogenin immunoreactivity, in addition to semithin and ultra-thin sections for light and electron microscopic examination, followed by morphometric and statistical studies. Results: Sections of group II showed disorganized, fragmented, discontinued, and tapering muscle fibers, disrupted Z discs at focal areas and giant disfigured mitochondria. The CPK level and mean number of myogenin immunoreactive nuclei and mean area percent of fibrous tissue were elevated, while the mean diameter of muscle fibers was decreased versus the control. Group III showed partial improvement, significant decrease in CPK level and increase in mean area percent of fibrous tissue, mean number of myogenin immunoreactive nuclei and in fiber diameter. Group IV showed prominent improvement. Conclusion: Platelet rich plasma could enhance repair of acutely crushed skeletal muscle and accelerate the healing process with minimal fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide accurate and non‐invasive diagnoses of lower extremity injuries in athletes. Sport‐related injuries commonly occur in and around the knee and can affect the articular cartilage, patellar tendon, hamstring muscles, and bone. Sports medicine physicians utilize MRI to evaluate and diagnose injury, track recovery, estimate return to sport timelines, and assess the risk of recurrent injury. This article reviews the current literature and describes novel developments of quantitative MRI tools that can further advance our understanding of sports injury diagnosis, prevention, and treatment while minimizing injury risk and rehabilitation time. Innovative approaches for enhancing the early diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries in basketball players span a spectrum of techniques. These encompass the utilization of T2, T1ρ, and T2* quantitative MRI, along with dGEMRIC and Na‐MRI to assess articular cartilage injuries, 3D‐Ultrashort echo time MRI for patellar tendon injuries, diffusion tensor imaging for acute myotendinous injuries, and sagittal short tau inversion recovery and axial long‐axis T1‐weighted, and 3D Cube sequences for bone stress imaging. Future studies should further refine and validate these MR‐based quantitative techniques while exploring the lifelong cumulative impact of basketball on players' knees. Level of Evidence: 5 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of the present investigation was to compare the acute physiological and perceptual responses between two modes of interval training using a randomized crossover design. More specifically, eleven young adult participants (23 ± 4 years, 77 ± 13 kg, 178 ± 7 cm) performed two protocols: one composed of whole-body calisthenics exercises and another on a cycle ergometer. Both protocols encompassed eight 20 s bouts at intensities equivalent to all-out (HIIT-WB) and 170% of the maximal power output (HIIT-C), respectively, interspersed with 10 s of passive rest. The peak and average heart rate, the rating of perceived effort, and blood lactate, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase concentrations were measured. Aside from blood lactate (HIIT-WB = 9.4 ± 1.8 mmo/L; HIIT-C = 12.5 ± 2.5 mmol/L, p < 0.05) and the rating of perceived exertion (HIIT-WB = 8.8 ± 0.9; HIIT-C = 9.6 ± 0.5, p < 0.05), physiological responses did not significantly differ between protocols (all p > 0.05), with high average heart rate values (HIIT-WB = 86 ± 6% HRmax; HIIT-C = 87 ± 4% HRmax) and a low magnitude of muscle damage, as inferred by CK and LDH concentrations (HIIT-WB = 205.9 ± 56.3 and 203.5 ± 72.4 U/L; HIIT-C = 234.5 ± 77.1 and 155.1 ± 65.3 U/L), respectively. It can be concluded that both protocols elicit vigorous heart rate responses and a low magnitude of muscle damage and, therefore, appear as viable alternatives to improve aerobic fitness. The inclusion of a whole-body HIIT protocol may be an interesting alternative for training prescription in relation to more common interval training protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aim To investigate the outcomes of cabozantinib in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC), focusing on dose setting and modification. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 34 Japanese patients who received cabozantinib for uHCC. Trough concentrations (Ctrough) of cabozantinib were also measured weekly for 6 weeks in the 18 patients. Results Sixteen patients received ≥40 mg (high‐dose group), and 18 patients received 20 mg (low‐dose group). Dose escalations were performed in 27.8% of the patients in the low‐dose group. Although median duration of the first dose reduction or interruption in the low‐dose group was twice that in the high‐dose group (28 vs. 14 days, p

Background: The incidence of muscle atrophy or sports injuries is increasing with time and population aging, thereby attracting considerable attention to muscle generation research. Muscle satellite cells, which play an important role in this process, lack comprehensive literature regarding their use for muscle regeneration. Hence, this study aimed to analyze the hotspots and trends in satellite cell research from 2010 to 2023, providing a reference for muscle regeneration research. Methods: Studies on satellite cells’ role in muscle regeneration from 2010 to 2023 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Using CiteSpace and VOSviewer, we analyzed annual publications, authors and co-citing authors, countries and institutions, journals and co-citing journals, co-citing references, and keywords. Results: From 2010 to 2023, 1468 papers were retrieved, indicating an overall increasing trend in the number of annual publications related to satellite cells in muscle regeneration. The United States had the highest number of publications, while the Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale was the institution with the most publications. Among journals, '' PloS One'' had the highest number of published papers, and ''Cell'' emerged as the most co-cited journal. A total of 7425 authors were involved, with Michael A. Rudnicki being the author with the highest number of publications and the most co-cited author. The most cited reference was ''Satellite cells and the muscle stem cell niche.'' Among keywords, “satellite cells” was the most common, with ''heterogeneity'' having the highest centrality. Frontier themes included ''Duchenne muscular dystrophy,” ''skeletal muscle,” ''in-vivo,” ''muscle regeneration,” ''mice,'' ''muscle atrophy,” ''muscle fibers,” ''inflammation,” '' mesenchymal stem cells,” and ''satellite cell.'' Conclusion: This study presents the current status and trends in satellite cell research on muscle regeneration from 2010 to 2023 using bibliometric analyses, providing valuable insights into numerous future research directions.

Ming-Ming Ma,1,&ast; Yao-Yao Xu,2,&ast; Li-Hua Sun,1,&ast; Wen-Jie Cui,1 Miao Fan,3 Su Zhang,4 Lei Liu,5 Ling-Zhi Wu,6 Liu-Cheng Li7 1Department of Diagnostic Ultrasound & Echocardiography, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, The People’s Hospital of Pingyang, Wenzhou, 325400, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315010, People’s Republic of China; 4Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Cancer Center, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, People’s Republic of China; 5Department of Orthopaedics, Shaoxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaoxing, 312000, People’s Republic of China; 6Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University (The First Hospital of Jiaxing), Jiaxing, 314000, People’s Republic of China; 7Department of Pharmacy, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Liu-Cheng Li, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, 310016, People’s Republic of China, Email 3415116@zju.edu.cn Ling-Zhi Wu, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University (The First Hospital of Jiaxing), No. 1882 South Central Road, Jiaxing, 314000, People’s Republic of China, Email wulingzhi1992@163.comAbstract: Surveillance of drug safety is an important aspect in the routine medical care. Adverse events caused by real-world drug utilization has become one of the leading causes of death and an urgent issue in the field of toxicology. Cardiovascular disease is now the leading cause of fatal diseases in most countries, especially in the elderly population who often suffer from multiple diseases and need long-term multidrug therapy. Among which, statins have been widely used to lower bad cholesterol and regress coronary plaque mainly in patients with hyperlipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Although the real-world benefits of statins are significant, different degrees and types of adverse drug reactions (ADR) such as liver dysfunction and muscle injury, have a great impact on the original treatment regimens as well as the quality of life. This review describes the epidemiology, mechanisms, early identification and post-intervention of statin-associated liver dysfunction and muscle injury based on the updated clinical evidence. It provides systematic and comprehensive guidance and necessary supplement for the clinical safety of statin use in cardiovascular diseases.Keywords: statin, cardiovascular diseases, liver dysfunction, muscle injury, countermeasures

Myositis ossificans is delineated and distinguished by the generation and deposition of cartilaginous and osseous soft tissues. It generally occurs in the lower extremities and is caused by direct trauma. During the different developmental stages of maturation, the lesion has different radiological appearances that can be confused with sarcomas. Here, we present the case of a 38-year-old woman who presented to the outpatient clinic with a painful mass in the lateral chest wall that had rapidly expanded and increased in size. The patient had no history of trauma. Chest computed tomography revealed an intramuscular mass in the lateral chest wall; postcontrast images demonstrated heterogeneous enhancement and peripheral calcification. The patient was then referred to our center for subsequent assessment and examinations. Pathological examination findings confirmed the diagnosis of myositis ossificans. Surgical resection was performed after obtaining patient consent. The symptoms experienced by the patient were successfully relieved, and no evidence of recurrence was observed during the 2-year follow-up period. Knowledge of the atypical locations of myositis ossificans, calcification patterns at different stages, and radiopathological correlations can help accurately diagnose myositis ossificans and avoid unnecessary medical imaging and interventions.

The objectives of this study were to analyse the peak muscle-tendon (MT) strain of the hamstring during an entire acceleration sprint overground and examine their relationship with relative joint angles and segment orientation in the sagittal plane, which are the direct causes of MT strain. Kinematic data were recorded using a 3D inertial motion capture system in 21 male semi-professional soccer players during 40-metre overground sprint. Scaled musculoskeletal models were used to estimate peak MT strain in the hamstring over 16 steps. Biceps femoris long head (BFLH) exhibited the largest peaks in MT strain compared to semitendinosus (ST) and semimembranosus (SM) muscles across all the steps, with its overall strain decreased as the number of steps and maximum speed increased. Hip flexion angle was found to be a strong predictor (p < 0.001) of joint angles, being the orientation of the pelvis in the sagittal plane of the segment with the greatest influence (p < 0.001) on the peak MT strain of BFLH during sprinting. The current study provides a biomechanical explanation for the high proportion of hamstring injuries in the acceleration phase of sprinting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) facilitates mitotic and anabolic actions in all tissues. In skeletal muscle, IGF‐I can promote growth and resolution of damage by promoting satellite cell proliferation and differentiation, suppressing inflammation, and enhancing fiber formation. While the most well‐characterized form of IGF‐I is the mature protein, alternative splicing and post‐translational modification complexity lead to several additional forms of IGF‐I. Previous studies showed muscle efficiently stores glycosylated pro‐IGF‐I. However, non‐glycosylated forms display more efficient IGF‐I receptor activation in vitro, suggesting that the removal of the glycosylated C terminus is a necessary step to enable increased activity. We employed CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing to ablate IGF‐I glycosylation sites (2ND) or its cleavage site (3RA) in mice to determine the necessity of glycosylation or cleavage for IGF‐I function in postnatal growth and during muscle regeneration. 3RA mice had the highest circulating and muscle IGF‐I content, whereas 2ND mice had the lowest levels compared to wild‐type mice. After weaning, 4‐week‐old 2ND mice exhibited higher body and skeletal muscle mass than other strains. However, by 16 weeks of age, muscle and body size differences disappeared. Even though 3RA mice had more IGF‐I stored in muscle in homeostatic conditions, regeneration was delayed after cardiotoxin‐induced injury, with prolonged necrosis most evident at 5 days post injury (dpi). In contrast, 2ND displayed improved regeneration with reduced necrosis, and greater fiber size and muscle mass at 11 and 21 dpi. Overall, these results demonstrate that while IGF‐I glycosylation may be important for storage, cleavage is needed to enable IGF‐I to be used for efficient activity in postnatal growth and following acute injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the immune system cells (ISC) synthesize molecules to regulate inflammation, a process needed to regenerate muscle. The relationship between those molecules and the muscle injury is unknown. Monocytes belonging to ISC are regulated by omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 LCPUFAs) in DMD, but whether those fatty acids influence other ISC like T-cells is unknown. We analyzed the expression of the muscle regeneration markers (FOXP3 and AREG) in circulating leukocytes of DMD patients with different lower limb muscle functions and whether ω-3 LCPUFAs regulate the expression of those markers, and the populations of circulating T-cells, their intracellular cytokines, and disease progression (CD69 and CD49d) markers. This placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized study was conducted in DMD boys supplemented with ω-3 LCPUFAs (n = 18) or placebo (sunflower oil, n = 13) for six months. FOXP3 and AREG mRNA expression in leukocytes, immunophenotyping of T-cell populations, CD49d and CD69 markers, and intracellular cytokines in blood samples were analyzed at baseline and months 1, 2, 3, and 6 of supplementation. Patients with assisted ambulation expressed higher (P = 0.015) FOXP3 mRNA levels than ambulatory patients. The FOXP3 mRNA expression correlated (Rho = -0.526, P = 0.03) with the Vignos scale score at month six of supplementation with ω-3 LCPUFAs. CD49d + CD8 + T-cells population was lower (P = 0.037) in the ω −3 LCPUFAs group than placebo at month six of supplementation. FOXP3 is highly expressed in circulating leukocytes of DMD patients with the worst muscle function. Omega-3 LCPUFAs might modulate the synthesis of the adhesion marker CD49d + CD8 + T-cells, but their plausible impact on FOXP3 needs more research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia has a complex pathophysiology that encompasses metabolic dysregulation and muscle ultrastructural changes. Among the drivers of intracellular and ultrastructural changes of muscle fibers in sarcopenia, mitochondria and their quality control pathways play relevant roles. Mononucleated muscle stem cells/satellite cells (MSCs) have been attributed a critical role in muscle repair after an injury. The involvement of mitochondria in supporting MSC-directed muscle repair is unclear. There is evidence that a reduction in mitochondrial biogenesis blunts muscle repair, thus indicating that the delivery of functional mitochondria to injured muscles can be harnessed to limit muscle fibrosis and enhance restoration of muscle function. Injection of autologous respiration-competent mitochondria from uninjured sites to damaged tissue has been shown to reduce infarct size and enhance cell survival in preclinical models of ischemia–reperfusion. Furthermore, the incorporation of donor mitochondria into MSCs enhances lung and cardiac tissue repair. This strategy has also been tested for regeneration purposes in traumatic muscle injuries. Indeed, the systemic delivery of mitochondria promotes muscle regeneration and restores muscle mass and function while reducing fibrosis during recovery after an injury. In this review, we discuss the contribution of altered MSC function to sarcopenia and illustrate the prospect of harnessing mitochondrial delivery and restoration of MSCs as a therapeutic strategy against age-related sarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested that a reduced length of the biceps femoris long head (BF lh) fascicles may increase the risk of hamstring strain injury (HSI). However, it remains unclear whether the BF lh fascicles of the injured limb are shorter than those of the contralateral limb in athletes with an acute HSI. To investigate the between-limb asymmetry of BF lh fascicle length in amateur athletes with an acute HSI. Male amateur athletes were evaluated using ultrasound scans within five days following an HSI. The BF lh fascicle length was estimated using a validated equation. Eighteen injured athletes participated in this study. There was no significant difference (p = 0.27) in the length of BF lh fascicles between the injured limb (9.53 ± 2.55 cm; 95%CI 8.26 to 10.80 cm) and the uninjured limb (10.54 ± 2.87 cm; 95%CI 9.11 to 11.97 cm). Individual analysis revealed high heterogeneity, with between-limb asymmetries (percentage difference of the injured limb compared to the uninjured limb) ranging from −42% to 25%. Nine out of the 18 athletes had a fascicle length that was more than 10% shorter in the injured limb compared to the uninjured limb, five athletes had a difference of less than 10%, and four athletes had a fascicle length that was more than 10% longer in the injured limb compared to the uninjured limb. The architecture characteristics of injured and uninjured muscles is not consistent among athletes with HSI. Therefore, rehabilitation programs focused on fascicle lengthening should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to characterize the effect of sex and the influence of oral contraception usage on musculotendinous injury (MTI). Current literature suggests a disparity in the incidence of MTI between males and females. This may be attributed to inherent biological differences between the sexes, such as in the sex hormonal milieu. There is a lack of information associating sex hormone milieu and MTI. Methods: We searched the PearlDiver database (a for-fee healthcare database) for males, females taking oral contraceptives (OC), and eumenorrheic females not taking any form of hormonal contraceptives (non-OC) 18–39 yr old. The three populations were matched by age and body mass index. We queried the database for lower-extremity skeletal MTI diagnoses in these groups. Results: Each group contained 42,267 patients with orthopedic injuries. There were a total of 1476 (3.49%) skeletal MTI in the male group, 1078 (2.55%) in non-OC females, and 231 (0.55%) in OC females. Both the non-OC and the OC groups had a significantly smaller proportion of MTI than males (P < 0.0001), and therefore these groups were less likely (adjusted odds ratios, 0.72 and 0.15, respectively) to experience MTI when controlled for potential covariates. Conclusions: In this study, we show that females are less likely to develop MTI to total injuries, when compared with males, with OC using females being least likely followed by non-OC females. These results are consistent with other epidemiological studies; however, overall results in the literature are variable. This study adds to the emerging body of literature on sex hormone–influenced musculoskeletal injury but, more specifically, MTI, which have not been rigorously investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several urate‐lowering drugs have been linked to muscle injury. This study investigated the association of oral urate‐lowering drugs with the risk of muscle injury by performing a network meta‐analysis of randomized and non‐randomized controlled trials. A systematic search of MEDLINE, via PubMed, the ClinicalTrials.gov website, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted to identify relevant studies with a primary outcome of "all muscle injuries." A random‐effects model was used to perform a frequentist network meta‐analysis to estimate whether there was significant heterogeneity among the studies. In total, 32 studies including 28,327 participants with 2694 (9.5%) "all muscle injuries" were assessed, and the overall risk of bias was judged to be low to moderate. No statistically significant differences were found between placebo and 6 urate‐lowering therapies: allopurinol (risk ratio, RR, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 95%CI, 0.63‐1.73), febuxostat (RR 1.10, 95%CI 0.71‐1.70), lesinurad (RR 7.00, 95%CI 0.31‐160.36), lesinurad concomitant with allopurinol (RR 0.85, 95%CI 0.34‐2.11), lesinurad concomitant with febuxostat (RR 1.97, 95%CI 0.55‐7.03), and topiroxostat (RR 0.99, 95%CI 0.37‐2.65). The findings suggest that there is little need to consider the risk of muscle injury when using urate‐lowering drugs in the clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Falls, with subsequent fracture and muscle injury are very commonly encountered in the elderly. Platelet rich plasma has been found to have marked ability to enhance regeneration of various tissues and organs and is widely used nowadays in a variety of medical sectors. Aim of the Work: To study the effect of PRP on skeletal muscle repair in senile male albino rats. Material and Methods: Forty-two senile male senile albino rats, aging 24 months and weighing 280 grams, were used. Six rats were used as PRP donors and thirty-six were equally divided into three groups. Group I was equally subdivided into subgroup IA; rats were left without intervention and subgroup IB; rats were sham operated on the right hind limb. Group II: gastrocnemius muscle injury was induced in the right hind limb and rats were left for spontaneous healing and were further equally subdivided into subgroups IIA and IIB where rats were sacrificed on the 1st day and the 7th day post-injury respectively. Group III: gastrocnemius muscle injury was induced as group II, and rats were treated with 100 microliters PRP on the same day of injury then rats were further equally subdivided into subgroup IIIA: rats were sacrificed on the 1st day postinjury and subgroup IIIB: rats were given 100 microliters of PRP on the 3rd day and 5th day post-injury then were sacrificed on the 7th day. At the end of experiment for each subgroup, the gastrocnemius muscle was excised and processed for light and transmission electron microscopic examination. Results: PRP led to stronger post injury acute inflammatory response and prevented the persistence of age-related delayed inflammatory state. Moreover, it markedly enhanced myogenesis and decreased fibrous tissue scaring. Conclusion: PRP treatment accelerated the rate and improved the quality of skeletal muscle healing in senile rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to determine which of the two recovery methods would be more appropriate after high-intensity exercise. Eight professional volleyball players participate in this research. Firstly, the muscle damage exercise protocol was applied to the athletes participating in the research, and then the Cold Water Immersion (CWI) protocol was applied as a recovery method. Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) and Creatine Kinase (CK) blood samples were taken from the athletes in resting conditions and 2 hours and 24 hours after CWI. Ten days later, the muscle damage exercise protocol was reapplied to the same group of athletes, the Massage protocol was used as a recovery method, and blood samples were taken again in a similar way. To compare the AST, LDH and CK changes of the athletes participating in the research, the two-way analysis of variance test was used in repeated measurements. Mann-Whitney U test was used for the dissimilarities between CWI and massage groups. According to the results of the research; It was determined that there were significant differences at the p<0.05 level for the AST and LDH variable between the measurement values of massage and CWI (p<0.05). No significant difference was found between massage and CWI for CK value. The use of recovery methods after exercise is relatively significant for athletes. Following the consequences of the research, was observed that the muscle damage of the athletes who received massage treatment was lower than those who were applied CWI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: It is well demonstrated that Nordic hamstring (NH) program has poor compliance across European soccer clubs, but little is known about its implementation in Major League Soccer (MLS). The authors aimed to investigate MLS hamstring prevention practices and compliance with the NH program and understand the reasons for its inclusion or exclusion. Design: A cross-sectional electronic survey was completed by 24 of the 26 (92%) MLS top-division soccer clubs. Methods: The survey, based on the Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance framework, was sent to team medical staff. Medical staff were also asked for opinions on barriers to implementation. Results: Eighteen clubs (75%) reported a formal hamstring injury prevention program, with eccentric exercises (94%; 95% CI [confidence interval], 74%-99%), high-speed running (94%; 95% CI, 74%-99%), and NH exercises (89%; 95% CI, 67%-97%) the most common strategies adopted. Fifteen clubs partially implemented the NH program, but only 5 (21 %; 95% CI, 9%-40%) completed the full program and were classed as compliant. A total of 20 respondents reported that player perception and muscle soreness (83%; 95% CI, 64%-93%) were barriers to the implementation of the NH program. On a 5-point Likert scale, respondents "partially agreed" (4.13 [0.80]) that the NH exercise could substantially reduce injuries and would be "effective" at their own club (3.88 [0.61]). Conclusions: The NH exercise was valued, but negative player perception and muscular soreness were identified as barriers to implementing the full program. Manipulation of volume and frequency should inform future "effectiveness" research to prospectively assess such modifications in the context of MLS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction The main generator of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is still unknown. This study aimed to clarify the main generator of DOMS. Methods Twelve participants performed eccentric exercise (EE) on lower legs. MRI and ultrasound were used to assess changes of calf muscle and deep fascia before and after EE. These results were then compared to the muscle pain level. Results Compared to baseline, muscle pain peaked at 24–48 h after EE (downstairs 22.25 ± 6.196, 57.917 ± 9.298, F = 291.168, p

Aim: Muscle injuries are common sports-related injuries that cause the most training loss. Self-efficacy refers to a person's personal belief that he/she can do the behavior necessary to reach his goal. This study aimed to examine the difference in exercise self-efficacy according to the grade of muscle injury in recreational and professional athletes. Material and Methods: Ninety-three patients who applied to the sports medicine outpatient clinic and were diagnosed with muscle injury and doing sports were included in the study. Gender, age, weight, height, sports branch and exercise duration per week, injury grade, and Tegner activity level of the patients diagnosed with muscle injury were recorded. The patients were asked to fill in the sports fitness index and athlete self-efficacy scale. Results: A significant difference was found in the sports fitness index score according to the grade of muscle injury (p=0.002), while there was no significant difference in the Tegner activity level (p=0.228) and athlete self-efficacy scale (p=0.791). A negative correlation was found between age and duration of exercise (r=-0.234, p=0.024), and age and Tegner activity level (r=-0.425, p

Context: Eccentric knee flexor strength assessments have a key role in both prevention and rehabilitation of hamstring strain injuries. Objective: To verify the reliability of a clinical test for measuring eccentric knee flexor strength during the Nordic hamstring exercise using a commercially available handheld dynamometer. Design: Reliability study. Setting: Physical Therapy Laboratory, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (Brazil). Participants: Fifty male amateur athletes (soccer or rugby players; 24 [3] y). Main Outcome Measures: Eccentric knee flexor strength. Results: When compared with a load cell– based device, the clinical test using a handheld dynamometer provided smaller force values (P < .05) with large effect sizes (.92– 1.21), moderate intraclass correlation (.60–.62), typical error of 30 to 31 N, and coefficient of variation of 10% to 11%. Regarding the test–retest reproducibility (2 sessions separated by 1 week), the clinical test provided similar force values (P > .05) with only small effect sizes (.20–.27), moderate to good correlation (.67–.76), typical error of 23 to 24 N, and coefficient of variation of 9% to 10%. Conclusion: The clinical test with handheld dynamometer proposed by this study can be considered an affordable and relatively reliable tool for eccentric knee flexor strength assessment in the clinical setting, but results should not be directly compared with those provided by load cell–based devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The main generator of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is still unknown. This study aimed to clarify the main generator of DOMS. Methods: Twelve participants performed eccentric exercise (EE) on lower legs. MRI and ultrasound were used to assess changes of calf muscle and deep fascia before and after EE. These results were then compared to the muscle pain level. Results: Compared to baseline, muscle pain peaked at 24–48 h after EE (downstairs 22.25 ± 6.196, 57.917 ± 9.298, F = 291.168, p < 0.01; resting 5.833 ± 1.899, 5.083 ± 2.429, F = 51.678, p < 0.01). Shear wave speed (SWE) of the deep fascia and T2 values of the gastrocnemius muscle and deep fascia all increased and peaked at 48 h after EE (1.960 ± 0.130, F = 22.293; 50.237 ± 2.963, F = 73.172; 66.328 ± 2.968, F = 231.719, respectively, p < 0.01). These measurements were positively correlated with DOMS (downstairs: r = 0.46, 0.76, 0.87, respectively, p < 0.001; resting: r = 0.42, 0.70, 0.77, respectively, p < 0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between SWE and T2 values of deep fascia (r = 0.54, p < 0.01). Conclusion: DOMS is a common result of muscle and fascia injuries. Deep fascia edema and stiffness play a crucial role in DOMS, which can be effectively evaluated MR-T2 and SWE. Critical relevance statement: Delayed-onset muscle soreness is a common result of muscle and deep fascia injuries, in which the edema and stiffness of the deep fascia play a crucial role. Both MRI and shear wave elastography can be effectively used to evaluate soft tissue injuries. Key points: • The deep fascia is the major pain generator of delayed-onset muscle soreness. • There is a significant correlation between fascia injury and delayed-onset muscle soreness. • MRI and shear wave elastography are preferred methods for assessing fascia injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt alloys have numerous applications, especially as critical components in orthopedic biomedical implants. However, recent investigations have revealed potential hazards associated with the release of nanoparticles from cobalt-based implants during implantation. This can lead to their accumulation and migration within the body, resulting in adverse reactions such as organ toxicity. Despite being a primary interface for cobalt nanoparticle (CoNP) exposure, skeletal muscle lacks comprehensive long-term impact studies. This study evaluated whether selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) could mitigate CoNP toxicity in muscle cells and zebrafish models. CoNPs dose-dependently reduced C2C12 viability while elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. However, low-dose SeNPs attenuated these adverse effects. CoNPs downregulated myogenic genes and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in C2C12 cells; this effect was attenuated by SeNP cotreatment. Zebrafish studies confirmed CoNP toxicity, as it decreased locomotor performance while inducing muscle injury, ROS generation, malformations, and mortality. However, SeNPs alleviated these detrimental effects. Overall, SeNPs mitigated CoNP-mediated cytotoxicity in muscle cells and tissue through antioxidative and antiapoptotic mechanisms. This suggests that SeNP-coated implants could be developed to eliminate cobalt nanoparticle toxicity and enhance the safety of metallic implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal stem cells are multipotent stromal cells isolated from bone marrow, fat, umbilical cord and other tissues. It can differentiate into different cell types and secrete a variety of proteins with therapeutic potential, which has a good application prospect in the repair of muscle tissue. OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress of mesenchymal stem cells in promoting muscle tissue repair and provide a theoretical basis for further clinical application. METHODS: Relevant articles published from inception to 2022 were retrieved from CNKI, VIP, WanFang, PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases. The keywords were “mesenchymal stem cells, muscle tissue, muscle injury, muscle atrophy, exosomes, scaffolds” in Chinese and English. The literature about mesenchymal stem cell migration promoting muscle fiber proliferation and repair was screened. Finally, 98 articles were included for review and analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The related mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cell migration promoting muscle fiber proliferation and repair are complex, mostly by anti-inflammatory, inhibiting interstitial fibrosis, inhibiting the fat formation and other ways to promote muscle fiber proliferation and repair. (2) The related biological scaffolds and cell co-culture based on mesenchymal stem cells can significantly compensate for the low survival rate of mesenchymal stem cells after colonization. (3) At present, mesenchymal stem cell therapy still has apparent limitations. In the future, mesenchymal stem cells combined with other therapies should become the primary development trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hamstring strains are the most prevalent muscle injuries reported in sport with a prevalence rate between 6% and 29% of all injuries reported. The symptoms of hamstring strains include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising in the back of the thigh. There is an inadequacy of studies to support the efficacy of Nordic Exercise for hamstring strain. Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of Nordic exercise among subjects with hamstring strain. Materials and Methods: A Convenient sample of 80 subjects with hamstring strain were sorted out by the selection criteria and were randomly assigned into Nordic group and control group. The Nordic group was treated with Nordic exercises, while the Control group was treated with stretching and strengthening exercises on an odd-even randomization. The pre-test and post-test were obtained through "Functional assessment scale for acute hamstring injuries" (FASH). The entire study process was conducted from November 2022 to March 2023. Result: The study revealed that the Nordic exercise group showed reduction in hamstring strain and FASH score than the conventional group. The mean pre-test value for Nordic group was 57.00 and post-test value was 11.73, while the mean pre-test value for Control group was 52.61 and post-test value was 7.40. As a result, both groups have a significant increase in FASH. Conclusion: The study concluded that the Nordic exercises are more effective when compared to stretching and strengthening exercises for reduction of hamstring strain and increased functional activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the epidemiology of quadriceps muscle strain injury (QMSI) in elite Australian Football League (AFL) players, explore recovery milestones and determine whether recovery is impacted by factors such as injury type (index vs. re‐injury), the primary muscle injured and the mechanism of injury. Measures: All QMSI data reported to the Soft Tissue Injury Registry of the AFL from the 2014 to 2020 seasons were evaluated. Player demographic data, circumstances of injury, MRI reports and recovery outcomes following injury were extracted. Descriptive statistics and frequency distributions are presented. Recovery outcomes for injury type, primary muscle injured and the mechanism of injury were compared using univariate analyses. Results: There were 164 QMSIs from 122 players reported (134 index; 30 re‐injuries). Almost all (91.3%) QMSIs involved the rectus femoris. Half (48.4%) of the QMSIs occurred during kicking and most commonly affected the dominant kicking leg (72%). The majority occurred at training (64.6%). All re‐injuries involved the rectus femoris, most occurred from kicking (63.0%) and within 6 months of the preceding injury (70%). The mean return to play (RTP) time was 25.4 days (95%CI = 22.6–28.2) and rectus femoris injuries took around 14 days longer to RTP than vastii injuries (p = 0.001). QMSIs with a kicking mechanism took the longest to RTP of all injury mechanisms. Conclusion: In AFL players, QMSIs occur mostly in the dominant leg from a kicking mechanism. Rectus femoris injuries are more prevalent and result in longer RTP time frames. Re‐injuries exclusively involved the rectus femoris, primarily from kicking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In this research, imaging techniques such as CT and X-ray are used to locate important muscles in the shoulders and legs. Athletes who participate in sports that require running, jumping, or throwing are more likely to get injuries such as sprains, strains, tendinitis, fractures, and dislocations. One proposed automated technique has the overarching goal of enhancing recognition. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine how to recognize the major muscles in the shoulder and leg utilizing X-ray CT images as its primary diagnostic tool. METHODS: Using a shape model, discovering landmarks, and generating a form model are the steps necessary to identify injuries in key shoulder and leg muscles. The method also involves identifying injuries in significant abdominal muscles. The use of adversarial deep learning, and more specifically Deep-Injury Region Identification, can improve the ability to identify damaged muscle in X-ray and CT images. RESULTS: Applying the proposed diagnostic model to 150 sets of CT images, the study results show that Jaccard similarity coefficient (JSC) rate for the procedure is 0.724, the repeatability is 0.678, and the accuracy is 94.9% respectively. CONCLUSION: The study results demonstrate feasibility of using adversarial deep learning and deep-injury region identification to automatically detect severe muscle injuries in the shoulder and leg, which can enhance the identification and diagnosis of injuries in athletes, especially for those who compete in sports that include running, jumping, and throwing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine match running patterns before a hamstring muscle injury occurs during a match in male professional football players. A total of 281 male professional football players belonging to 7 teams from LaLiga were prospectively monitored over three seasons. Among these, 36 players suffered a non-contact hamstring muscle injury during an official match. The injuries were recorded by the medical staff, including the minute when the injury occurred. Running distances at different speed thresholds for 5 min and 15 min before the injury were compared to mean values of the previous 5 matches for the same time points. There were a total of 44 non-contact hamstring muscle injuries, which represents a hamstring muscle injury incidence of 3.34 injuries/1000 h of match exposure. The average time loss for these injuries was 33 ± 28 days (range 7 to 117 days). In the 15 min prior to the injury, players ran a similar distance as in control matches (p from 0.22 to 0.08). However, players ran a greater distance in the 5-min period before the injury than in control matches at 21.0-23.9 km/h (p < 0.001) and at ≥ 24 km/h (p < 0.001). The odds ratio for a hamstring muscle injury was 7.147 for those players who ran > 30.0 m at ≥ 21 km/h in a 5-min period (p < 0.001). Hamstring muscle injuries during competition were preceded by 5 min of higher running demands at > 21 km/h, compared with control matches. This suggests that a short period of unusual running increases the risk of hamstring muscle injury in professional football players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In this research, imaging techniques such as CT and X-ray are used to locate important muscles in the shoulders and legs. Athletes who participate in sports that require running, jumping, or throwing are more likely to get injuries such as sprains, strains, tendinitis, fractures, and dislocations. One proposed automated technique has the overarching goal of enhancing recognition. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine how to recognize the major muscles in the shoulder and leg utilizing X-ray CT images as its primary diagnostic tool. METHODS: Using a shape model, discovering landmarks, and generating a form model are the steps necessary to identify injuries in key shoulder and leg muscles. The method also involves identifying injuries in significant abdominal muscles. The use of adversarial deep learning, and more specifically Deep-Injury Region Identification, can improve the ability to identify damaged muscle in X-ray and CT images. RESULTS: Applying the proposed diagnostic model to 150 sets of CT images, the study results show that Jaccard similarity coefficient (JSC) rate for the procedure is 0.724, the repeatability is 0.678, and the accuracy is 94.9% respectively. CONCLUSION: The study results demonstrate feasibility of using adversarial deep learning and deep-injury region identification to automatically detect severe muscle injuries in the shoulder and leg, which can enhance the identification and diagnosis of injuries in athletes, especially for those who compete in sports that include running, jumping, and throwing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]