Clinical Research Directory

PRotein Optimization With eXercise to Improve MUscle Mass and Functional outcomeS

The investigators have designed a 2-center, pilot feasibility, randomized controlled trial (PROXIMUS) to determine the feasibility and safety of a larger multi center, randomized open-label trial comparing high protein combined with individualized exercise vs. standard management during the acute phase of critical illness in children. The investigators aim to determine the impact of the intervention on preservation of muscle mass; and functional status at 1 month and 6 months after randomization.

Comparing High-Protein and Low-Protein Multi-Ingredient Supplements for Body Composition and Performance in Elite Rugby Players

The purpose of this 12-week study is to compare the effects of two different post-exercise nutritional supplements on the body composition and exercise performance of elite male university rugby players. Athletes often consume very high amounts of protein to build muscle and recover, but excessive protein intake might pose potential health risks. Study Hypothesis: The researchers hypothesize that a multi-ingredient supplement with a lower total protein content (about 20 grams) will yield comparable or even superior improvements in body composition and physical performance compared to a standard high-dose whey protein supplement (40 grams). Study Design: Twenty elite male college rugby players will be randomly divided into two equal groups. One group will receive the high-dose whey protein, while the other group will receive the lower-dose multi-ingredient supplement (which includes protein, leucine, creatine, red amaranth, and elderberry). Participants will consume their assigned supplement immediately after their training sessions, four times a week for 12 weeks. Assessments: Before and after the 12-week intervention, the researchers will measure the participants' body composition (muscle and fat mass), maximum muscle strength, power, agility, and aerobic endurance. The overall goal is to determine if athletes can achieve optimal performance and muscle growth with a lower, more efficient protein intake strategy.

Leucine Requirements During Pregnancy

This study aims to understand how much leucine, an essential amino acid, and protein building block, healthy pregnant women need during early and late pregnancy. Leucine plays an important role in supporting muscle health and fetal growth. Participants will consume carefully prepared meals and provide breath, urine samples, and one blood sample so researchers can measure how the body uses leucine at different stages of pregnancy. The results will help improve nutrition guidelines for pregnant women to better support maternal health and healthy fetal development.

Expressions of Ezrin and Pip5k1α Proteins in Airway Smooth Muscle of Asthmatic Patients

Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory affliction, significantly impinges upon the quality of life for affected individuals. Timely and appropriate diagnostic measures, coupled with efficacious therapeutic interventions, are paramount in mitigating exacerbations of symptoms and enhancing the life quality of patients. Ezrin plays an important role in maintaining cell morphology, cell migration, cell adhesion and polarisation, but Ezrin expression in airway smooth muscle remains unclear. Pip5k1α is an important kinase involved in intracellular phosphatidylinositol signalling pathways that may be involved in smooth muscle contraction and diastole. Therefore, further studies are necessary to elucidate the changes of Ezrin and Pip5k1α in patients with asthma to provide a basis for investigating alternative treatments for asthma.