Loughborough

Researchers are evaluating the effects of a high-fat mixed meal enriched with a whey protein (WP)-enriched milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) ingredient on heart and brain health markers in postmenopausal women aged 50 to 75 years who are overweight and at moderate risk for cardiovascular disease. This study uses a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design to compare the impact of the WP-enriched MFGM ingredient against a placebo WP-based ingredient. Participants will attend two study visits, each lasting about 8 hours. During each visit, they will consume a high-fat meal containing approximately 75 grams of refined palm oil fat supplemented either with the WP-enriched MFGM powdered ingredient or a placebo WP-based powdered ingredient. The meals are protein-matched and isoenergetic, given in random order with a washout period of at least 21 days between sessions. Throughout the visits, researchers will take various measurements including blood pressure, blood vessel stiffness, and collect blood samples at multiple time points before and up to 6 hours after the meal. Computer-based tests will also assess mood and cognition. The main outcome measured is the change in blood triacylglycerol levels after the meal. Participants' adherence and safety will be monitored during the study period.

Researchers are evaluating whether a 12-week daily supplementation with a milk fat globule membrane (MFGM)-containing bioactive whey protein concentrate (BWPC) improves muscle function more than a placebo in healthy, recreationally active adults. The study also aims to see if the effects differ by age, comparing younger adults (18-30 years) with older adults (60-75 years). The focus is on neuromuscular function, including muscle strength and power, with the hypothesis that the supplement group will show greater improvements than the placebo group, especially in older adults. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the BWPC supplement or an isocaloric, isonitrogenous whey protein isolate placebo. They will consume one scoop mixed with water daily alongside breakfast for 12 weeks. The study includes five laboratory visits: one familiarisation session and four assessment sessions. The first two visits occur before supplementation over 2 weeks to establish baseline measures, followed by the 12-week supplementation period, and then two post-supplementation visits within days after completing the supplement. During visits, participants will perform muscle strength and power tests including various knee contractions, countermovement jumps, and nerve stimulation assessments. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the lower limbs will be conducted to evaluate muscle morphology. Participants will also complete diet records during weeks 3 and 9 and report physical activity levels using a questionnaire. The main outcome measured is maximal voluntary isometric torque of the knee extensors after 12 weeks. Safety and adherence will be monitored throughout the study.

Researchers are evaluating whether a 12-week home-based aerobic exercise program involving brisk walking can help people living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) who are taking biologic medications. This study aims to see if exercise can improve quality of life, reduce symptoms, and lower markers of immune-related inflammation and disease activity. The research also includes a comparison between axSpA patients and healthy individuals to understand differences in inflammation and physical function. Participants in the exercise group will be asked to walk briskly for 30 minutes, five days a week, at a perceived exertion level of somewhat hard (rating of 12-14). They will wear an activity monitor to track heart rate, steps, distance, and exercise duration. The study includes a usual care group who will continue their regular treatment and receive an exercise diary with stretching activities. Both groups will visit the study site every four weeks to provide blood samples and complete questionnaires. Throughout the 12 weeks, researchers will measure changes in spinal pain, disease activity, inflammatory monocyte and T-cell characteristics, and other markers of systemic inflammation at baseline and weeks 4, 8, and 12. Additional assessments will include physical function, exercise tolerance, body composition, and cardiometabolic health. Half of the participants will also take part in interviews and questionnaires to assess how acceptable the exercise program is. The total participation time covers the 12-week intervention with regular monitoring visits.

Researchers are investigating how different methods of low-load blood flow restriction (BFR) resistance training affect pain and rehabilitation in UK military personnel with lower limb injuries. Pain is a major factor limiting recovery after musculoskeletal injuries, which can result from trauma or degenerative changes. This two-phase study aims to find the most effective and practical BFR exercise protocol to reduce pain, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and understand the physiological mechanisms behind any benefits. The study compares two BFR resistance training interventions that use a pneumatic tourniquet system applied to the upper thigh during lower limb strengthening exercises like leg press and knee extensions. One group receives BFR at 80% of limb occlusion pressure (BFR 80), and another at 40% (BFR 40). Both groups perform four sets of exercises (30, 15, 15, 15 repetitions) at 20% of their one-repetition maximum. The study is conducted in phases, including determining the best protocol and then evaluating its effectiveness and physiological impact. Participants are UK military personnel aged 18 to 55 with unilateral lower limb injuries where pain limits progress. They attend a three-week residential rehabilitation course at DMRC Stanford Hall. Pain levels are measured before the intervention, immediately after five days of training, and at an eight-day follow-up using the Brief Pain Inventory. Researchers also assess rehabilitation progress and monitor safety throughout the study to guide clinical practices for managing pain and recovery in military rehabilitation and beyond.