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        <title>Frontiers in Physiology | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Frontiers in Physiology | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
        <generator>Frontiers Feed Generator,version:1</generator>
        <pubDate>2026-04-15T00:26:47.989+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
        <item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1796673</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1796673</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Preeclampsia as an early manifestation of cardiovascular–kidney–metabolic syndrome]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Opinion</category>
        <author>Priscila Oliveira Barbosa</author><author>Luiz Sérgio Lima-Junior</author><author>Ricardo Carvalho Cavalli</author><author>Gizele Celante</author><author>Roberto da Silva Gomes</author><author>Valeria Cristina Sandrim</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1790151</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1790151</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effect of inhaled anticholinergics on bronchial secretions: a systematic review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Leonardo Arzayus-Patiño</author><author>José Julián Bernal-Sanchez</author><author>Valeria Pérez-Hortua</author><author>Esther Cecilia Wilches-Luna</author><author>Vicente Benavides-Cordoba</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundInhaled anticholinergics are commonly used in chronic respiratory diseases with the intention of reducing bronchial secretions in addition to their bronchodilatory effects. However, evidence regarding their direct influence on mucus production and clearance remains limited and fragmented. This study aimed to identify, evaluate, and synthesize the available evidence on the effects of inhaled and nebulized anticholinergics on mucus volume, rheological properties, mucociliary clearance, cough, and pulmonary function in adults.MethodsA systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024575999). Comprehensive searches were performed in PubMed, OVID, Embase, SciELO, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library without date restrictions. Randomized and non-randomized studies assessing inhaled or nebulized anticholinergics were included. Risk of bias was evaluated using the RoB 2 and ROBINS-I tools.ResultsOut of 2,449 records identified, eight studies comprising 403 participants met the inclusion criteria. Under stable clinical conditions, inhaled ipratropium and tiotropium showed no significant changes in sputum volume, viscosity, or mucociliary clearance compared with placebo. In acute or procedural settings, such as bronchoscopy, nebulized ipratropium was associated with a reduction in bronchial secretion grade and cough frequency. Tiotropium treatment demonstrated decreases in sputum solid fraction and mucin content (MUC5AC and MUC5B). None of the included studies reported impairment of mucociliary clearance or serious adverse events related to treatment.ConclusionCurrent evidence does not demonstrate a consistent effect of inhaled or nebulized anticholinergics on sustained reduction of bronchial secretions. However, their use does not appear to cause adverse changes in mucus production or clearance and may induce transient effects during acute cholinergic stimulation. Overall, the findings support a favorable safety profile of these agents regarding airway secretion management.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024575999.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1786449</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1786449</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of unilateral vs. bilateral flywheel-based complex training on change-of-direction and sprint performance in elite male volleyball players]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Jiaoqin Wang</author><author>Jiajun Lan</author><author>Zhikai Qin</author><author>Chen Liang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundFlywheel training has been shown to enhance lower-limb power; however, evidence comparing unilateral and bilateral complex training, especially among elite volleyball players, remains limited.MethodsTwenty-four male college volleyball players were randomly divided into three groups: unilateral flywheel complex training (UFT, n=8), bilateral flywheel complex training (BFT, n=8), or a control group (CON, n=8) that continued their regular technical training only. The intervention lasted 8 weeks, with 2 sessions each week. Performance measures included linear sprint times (5 m, 10 m, 30 m), change-of-direction skills (T-test, 5-0-5, volleyball-specific agility), and movement endurance (seven T-tests and repeated 30 m runs). A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was performed to identify differences between groups and across time points (pre-test vs. post-test).ResultsSignificant group × time interactions were observed across sprint, COD, and repeated-movement tests (p < 0.05). UFT demonstrated greater improvements than both BFT and CON in short-distance sprint (5–10 m), COD performance, and repeated-movement measures. BFT also improved performance relative to CON in selected outcomes, particularly the 30 m sprint and repeated tests, although improvements were generally smaller than those observed in UFT.ConclusionEight weeks of unilateral flywheel-based complex training resulted in the greatest improvements in short sprints, COD, and movement endurance compared to bilateral training and the control group. Although bilateral training also enhanced performance, the gains were comparatively smaller. These findings support the effectiveness of UFT as a strategy for improving short-distance acceleration and multidirectional movement performance relevant to volleyball match play.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1756029</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1756029</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The value of renal biopsy in PLA2R- antibody-positive patients with proteinuria: impact of additional pathologies on management and prognosis in a Chinese Cohort]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Shan Lu</author><author>Xiaoyang Wang</author><author>Xiaoxue Wang</author><author>Mengjiao Zhao</author><author>Hong Li</author><author>Zhanzheng Zhao</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionThe detection of serum anti-phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) antibodies (SAbs), a method to diagnose membranous nephropathy (MN) that replaces renal biopsy, is becoming increasingly accepted. However, whether SAb detection provides the same clinical value as renal biopsy is uncertain.MethodsThis study aimed to evaluate the value of renal biopsy in the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of patients with proteinuria who are seropositive for PLA2R antibodies (SAb+).ResultsRenal biopsy was performed in 414 SAb+ patients, 284 patients with primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) alone, 11 patients with atypical MN (AMN), 119 patients with PMN and diabetes mellitus (DM) or other pathologies, such as obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG), renal tubular/interstitial injury (RTI), and ischemic kidney injury (IRI). There was no significant difference in the treatment or prognoses of MN patients with or without additional pathologies/DM. A high estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was associated with favorable prognosis (P<0.05), but additional pathologies were not significantly associated with it (P>0.05).DiscussionIn conclusion, SAb+ can strongly predict MN (including in patients with DM) in China, but often coexists with additional pathologies. The presence of additional pathologies did not appear to be a significant determinant of management or prognosis. Renal biopsy is still necessary for accurate diagnosis, especially in patients with renal dysfunction.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1787735</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1787735</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Circadian system functional status and sleep in blind subjects with and without conscious light perception]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>David Martínez-Martínez</author><author>Pedro González-Romero</author><author>Beatriz Rodríguez-Morilla</author><author>María Ángeles Bonmatí-Carrión</author><author>María Ángeles Rol</author><author>Pedro Francisco Almaida-Pagán</author>
        <description><![CDATA[To understand circadian rhythms and sleep in an understudied population, which is particularly prone to suffer chronodisruption (CD), eighteen blind volunteers of 51.5 ± 3.6 years (Mean ± SEM) and 26 volunteers (51.8 ± 1.2) with no visual impairments wore the ambulatory circadian monitoring (ACM) device Kronowise® for seven consecutive days in real-life conditions. Nine of the blind participants declared to have some sort of light perception while the other nine declared to lack conscious light perception. ACM combines measurements of distal skin temperature; motor activity, light exposure and feeding schedules, providing information about lifestyle and the bidirectional crosstalk between internal time and external synchronisers, which is paramount to determine a subject’s CD degree. We found a extraordinarily diverse population in terms of blindness aetiology and thus, in the degree of affectation of the participants visual and circadian systems. Our results pointed to poorer circadian health and sleep in the blind participants, which could be directly related to the impact of disease over circadian photoreception but also to disruption of daily habits. Compared to controls, blind participants showed significantly lower light exposure and physical activity values during the day and higher time of movement during the night. Besides, we analysed feeding schedules in the blind participants for the first time and found that their last meal of the day happened later than in controls, thus blind participants’ night fasting was shorter. Altogether, our results indicated substantial behavioural circadian alterations associated with the disease.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1801670</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1801670</link>
        <title><![CDATA[NO- and S-nitrosothiols-dependent relaxation in large and small resistance blood vessels]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Mini Review</category>
        <author>Mauricio A. Lillo</author><author>Annie Beuve</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Nitric oxide (NO) has long been viewed as the principal endothelium-derived vasodilator through activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase (GC1) and cGMP-dependent signaling in vascular smooth muscle. However, accumulating evidence indicates that this canonical NO-GC1-cGMP pathway predominates in large conduit arteries, whereas regulation of vascular tone and blood pressure in the microcirculation relies largely on endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH) with NO acting primarily as a redox signal rather than a freely diffusing gas. Here, we review emerging mechanisms that integrate NO-derived nitrosative signaling with EDH, highlighting the central role of protein S-nitrosation and transnitrosation in shaping endothelial excitability. A central focus of this review is the newly-identified endothelial role of GC1 beyond its canonical smooth muscle function. We summarize recent findings demonstrating that GC1 acts as a redox hub through S-nitrosation of a critical cysteine residue (cys), enabling selective transnitrosation of downstream targets that regulates endothelial Ca2+ influx, KCa channel activation, and EDH-dependent vasodilation independently of cGMP production. Finally, we examine how extravascular components-including perivascular adipose tissue and red blood cells-modulate EDH signaling under physiological and pathological conditions.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1818723</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1818723</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Relationship between thyroid hormones and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in extremely and very preterm infants]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Yizhe Ma</author><author>Guihua Liu</author><author>Hu Li</author><author>Zhidan Bao</author><author>Xianhui Deng</author><author>Mingyan Tao</author><author>Luchun Wang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[AimsThyroid hormones (THs) play a vital role in neonatal development. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between thyroid function and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) incidence as well as neurodevelopment in extremely and very preterm infants. MethodsThis retrospective study involved 125 preterm infants born between 26 and 32 weeks of gestation from January 2020 to October 2025. Thyroid function tests were performed at 2 and 4 weeks after birth, and neurodevelopment was assessed using General Movements (GMs) at 36 weeks and 40 weeks of postmenstrual age (PMA).ResultsAmong the 125 infants, 40 infants (32%) developed BPD; of these 40 infants, 27 and 13 infants were classified as grade 1 and grade 2 BPD, respectively. Notably, the grade 2 BPD group had significantly lower TH levels compared to both grade 1 BPD and non-BPD groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, the non-BPD and grade 1 BPD groups showed a tendency to exhibit better neurological development at 36 and 40 weeks PMA compared to the grade 2 BPD group, although this difference was not significant.ConclusionsSerial thyroid function monitoring during the first month of life may be useful in identifying extremely and very preterm infants who are most at risk of developing severe BPD (grade 2). Future intervention studies are needed to determine whether thyroid replacement therapy in this particular high-risk group may reduce the severity of BPD and potentially improve neurodevelopmental outcomes.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1802999</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1802999</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Efficacy and safety of gabapentinoid combination therapy versus monotherapy for the treatment of neuropathic pain]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Dandan Li</author><author>Yang He</author><author>Zhiqiang Fan</author><author>Zhen Chen</author><author>Guiming Deng</author><author>Linqi Ouyang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundWhether combining gabapentinoids with other agents yields superior efficacy and safety outcomes compared to gabapentinoid monotherapy in patients with neuropathic pain remains unknown.ObjectiveTo compare the efficacy and safety of gabapentinoid combination therapy versus monotherapy in patients with neuropathic pain in head-to-head comparative studies.MethodsPubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched from inception to November 4, 2025. Data abstraction and quality assessment were conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline and the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, respectively. Pain scores (standardized to a 0–10 scale) were the primary outcomes, sleep interference scores, Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) and adverse events were the secondary outcomes. Study screening and selection were performed independently by 2 reviewers, with any disagreements resolved by a third adjudicator. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the I2 statistic.ResultsTwenty-one clinical trials comprising 2204 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Gabapentinoid combination therapy was superior to monotherapy in reducing pain (MD = − 1.27, 95% CI = − 1.55 to − 0.99; n =18) and sleep interference scores (MD = − 0.92, 95% CI = − 1.40 to − 0.45; n =5) and increasing the PGIC response rate (RR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.36 to 2.39; n =4). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that gabapentinoids, both gabapentin and pregabalin, achieved statistically significant greater pain reduction when combined with other gabapentinoids or antidepressants, dietary supplements, local anesthetic, non-pharmacological treatment, and opioids, whereas only a non-significant decreasing trend with immunomodulators. Notably, patients with painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) may benefit more from combination therapy. Although combination therapy was associated with higher overall discontinuation rates and certain adverse events, these safety concerns were largely driven by opioid–gabapentinoid combinations; most other combinations had a safety profile comparable to monotherapy.ConclusionGabapentinoid combination therapy was more effective than monotherapy for neuropathic pain, but the benefit-risk profile of specific combinations warrants careful consideration in clinical decision-making.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420251275655.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1783080</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1783080</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Modulation of the serotonergic system restores oxidative balance and gene expression in the brain and heart of rats with obesity induced by overnutrition]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Maria Daniele Teixeira Beltrão de Lemos</author><author>Matheus Santos de Sousa Fernandes</author><author>Thyago de Oliveira Rodrigues</author><author>Vanessa Lima de Souza</author><author>Fatma Hilal Yagin</author><author>Severina Cássia de Andrade Silva</author><author>Osmar Henrique dos Santos Junior</author><author>Diorginis José Soares Ferreira</author><author>Monira I. Aldhahi</author><author>Claudia J. Lagranha</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionStudies have demonstrated that insults during development increase the risk for developing diseases later in life, including hypertension, ischemic heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, diabetes, cancer, as well as psychiatric disorders. Hence, as mitochondrial dysfunction-induced oxidative stress has been proposed to be a central molecular hub linking metabolic and oxidative stress pathways, the serotonin modulation-related mitochondrial boost might mitigate such impairments. Thus, the present study investigates the effects of serotonina modulation by uoxetine on oxidative stress and mitochondrial biogenesis biomarkers in the brainstem and heart of male rats that were overfed during lactation period.MethodsNormo and overfed animals received uoxetine (FX, SSRI) or saline from postnatal day 39 to postnatal day 59, wherein tissues were collected 24 hours later.Results and discussionOverfeeding increased body weight and induced lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in both tissues, while genes related to mitochondrial dynamics (PGC1a and TFAM) were speci cally modulated, suggesting a targeted effect of uoxetine on mitochondrial biogenesis pathways by overfeeding across the tissues. Together, our results suggest that early life overfeeding deregulates oxidative balance and mitochondrial biogenesis, wherein FX administration acts toward molecular normalization both in heart and brainstem of male offspring. These ndings shed light on the potential of serotonin modulation to mitigate the effects of overnutrition during developmental periods.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1791778</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1791778</link>
        <title><![CDATA[High intellectual ability and the gut-brain-sex steroids axis: a perspective on cognitive and emotional diversity]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Perspective</category>
        <author>Ítalo M. Urrutia</author><author>Nicolás Plaza</author><author>Felipe Moraga</author><author>Constanza Griffiths-Sanhueza</author><author>Diliana Pérez-Reytor</author><author>Eduardo Karahanian</author><author>Sebastián Ramírez-Araya</author><author>Ana Kinkead</author><author>María Paz Gómez</author><author>Katherine Garcia</author>
        <description><![CDATA[The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network integrating neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic signals that regulate neurodevelopment, cognition, and emotion. It contributes to neurotransmitter production, inflammatory regulation, and the microbial metabolism of sex steroids, processes that have been shown to modulate synaptic plasticity and emotional behavior in experimental and clinical contexts, although their specific relevance to high intellectual ability remains unknown. In this perspective, we propose that high intellectual ability could be explored as a heterogeneous construct, within which some individuals identified as having HIA may exhibit responses potentially associated with differential sensitivity to gut-brain-sex hormone interactions. We discuss that microbial modulation of steroid bioavailability and neuroactive metabolites may represent one hypothetical pathway through which variations in steroid bioavailability and neuroactive metabolites could intersect with cognitive performance and emotional intensity, traits frequently described in some individuals with HIA. Integrating evidence from neuroendocrinology, microbiome science, and cognitive neuroscience, we outline a conceptual framework linking microbial, hormonal, and neural processes. This model aims to stimulate empirical research examining how physiological variation across the gut-brain-sex hormone axis may underlie cognitive and emotional diversity in gifted subpopulations. Importantly, this framework is conceptual and extrapolates from converging evidence in microbiome science and neuroendocrinology, as direct empirical studies in high intellectual ability are currently lacking.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1762472</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1762472</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Role of certain adipokines in the pathophysiology of hypertension]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Ahmet Yilmaz</author><author>Basra Deniz Obay</author><author>Aysun Ekinci</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionAdipose tissue is an active endocrine organ that secretes adipokines involved in metabolic regulation, inflammation, and cardiovascular homeostasis. Increasing evidence suggests that adipokine imbalance may contribute to the development of hypertension. This study aimed to compare circulating adipokine levels in newly diagnosed untreated hypertensive patients and normaotensive controls and to evaluate their association with blood pressure.MethodsThis case–control study included 180 participants recruited from outpatient clinics at Dicle University Faculty of Medicine. The study population consisted of 96 newly diagnosed untreated hypertensive patients and 84 normotensive controls. Sociodemographic data and blood pressure measurements were recorded. Serum levels of leptin, intelectin, RBP-1, chemerin, visceral adipokine index, adiponectin, resistin, visfatin, and C-reactive protein were measured using ELISA kits. Statistical analyses included group comparisons, correlation analyses, ANCOVA adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), and multivariate logistic regression.ResultsLeptin, intelectin, RBP-1, resistin, and visfatin levels were significantly higher in hypertensive patients than in controls (p < 0.001). Adiponectin levels were slightly higher in hypertensive individuals, while chemerin, visceral adipokine index, and CRP showed no significant differences. Logistic regression analysis identified age, BMI, and resistin as independent predictors of hypertension.ConclusionSeveral adipokines are elevated in hypertension, suggesting a potential role in blood pressure regulation. Among them, resistin appears to be an independent predictor of hypertension and may represent a potential biomarker for cardiovascular risk assessment.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1768672</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1768672</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Mechanistic insights and challenges in mitochondrial regulation of macrophage polarization and inflammatory responses]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Xinran Liu</author><author>Renping Liu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Inflammation has a dual nature; excessive or uncontrolled inflammation can trigger metabolic inflammatory diseases, in which immune cells, especially macrophages, play a crucial role. Mitochondria, as the core of cellular energy metabolism, are closely related to macrophage polarization and inflammation regulation. Mitochondrial dysfunction can trigger inflammatory responses through the activation of multiple signaling pathways, involving multiple signaling pathways, including Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase – Stimulator of Interferon Genes 1, inflammasomes, and Retinoic acid-Inducible Gene I (RIG-I). Currently, the role of mitochondria in regulating inflammatory responses is increasingly prominent; however, current research still faces many challenges, such as a lack of mechanistic connections, unclear details of key molecules, insufficiently refined experimental strategies, and difficulties in clinical translation. Future research needs to leverage advanced technologies to delve deeper into the mechanisms, improve the bioavailability and tissue-specific delivery of mitochondrial-targeted drugs, establish personalized evaluation criteria, and promote interdisciplinary innovation to facilitate the transition of mitochondrial-targeted therapy from basic research to clinical application.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1748810</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1748810</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A set-theoretic configurational analysis of sports event policy change: insights from Shanghai]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Chengfeng Zhang</author><author>Jun Qiang</author><author>Linhua Chen</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionGrounded in the multiple streams framework, this study explores the configurations of political, policy, and problem stream factors that drive policy change in sports events.MethodsA crisp-set qualitative comparative analysis (csQCA) was conducted on 33 sports event policies enacted in Shanghai, China, from 2016 to 2022.ResultsFour causal configurations leading to policy change were identified. Further classification revealed two distinct pathways: one driven by specific problems, and another shaped by the combined effects of political and policy factors.DiscussionThis research advances understanding of the causal logic underlying sports event policy change and highlights the combined role of core multiple streams factors, thereby improving the rationality of practical policymaking.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1792752</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1792752</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Exosomes in osteoporosis: regulatory mechanisms and clinical applications]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Qi Shuai</author><author>Jun Tian</author><author>Wenlong Yang</author><author>Santing Huang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Osteoporosis is a systemic metabolic bone disorder characterized by progressive bone mass reduction and microarchitectural deterioration, leading to fragility fractures. It poses a serious threat to the health of middle-aged and elderly populations and imposes a heavy healthcare burden. Exosomes mediate intercellular communication by transporting bioactive molecules such as proteins, miRNAs, and circRNAs, exerting bidirectional regulation on bone homeostasis. Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells, young plasma, and plants often improve osteoporosis by promoting osteoblastic differentiation and suppressing osteoclastic activity. Conversely, exosomes originating from osteoclasts, M1 macrophages, and tumor cells tend to accelerate bone resorption. Exosomes not only provide highly specific non-invasive biomarkers for osteoporosis but also emerge as novel therapeutic carriers due to their inherent biocompatibility, targeted delivery properties, and potential for engineered modification. This systematic review examines the biological properties of exosomes, the molecular mechanisms by which exosomes from different sources regulate bone metabolism, and their application progress in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. It also explores challenges in their clinical translation, providing a comprehensive reference for further research and clinical application in this field.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1745668</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1745668</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Combined use of EUS, ESD, and laparoscopic techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of a mucinous adenocarcinoma of the ascending colon originating from the submucosal layer: a case report]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Zongyao Liu</author><author>Yanling Li</author><author>Rong Tan</author><author>Ainizhati Abudusaimaiti</author><author>Shengjuan Hu</author><author>Ximei Li</author>
        <description><![CDATA[This report describes a 53-year-old woman admitted for evaluation of a space-occupying lesion in the ascending colon detected one year earlier and recent right lower quadrant pain. Initial colonoscopy revealed a 2.0 × 2.0 cm submucosal elevated lesion with surface ulceration near the ileocecal valve. Biopsy showed inflammatory mucosa with abundant mucin but no malignancy, and CT revealed no definite abnormalities. One year later, the lesion enlarged to 3.5 × 3.0 cm with increased ulceration. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) demonstrated a hypoechoic submucosal mass, and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was performed. During ESD, a jelly-like substance raised suspicion of a mucinous neoplasm, leading to laparoscopic resection of the ileocecal region and ascending colon. Pathology confirmed mucinous adenocarcinoma originating from the submucosal layer. This rare presentation differs from typical colorectal cancers that arise from the epithelial layer. The combined use of EUS, ESD, and laparoscopic surgery facilitated accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1797772</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1797772</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Excessive dietary histamine inhibits growth performance and impairs intestinal and hepatic health in juvenile American eel (Anguilla rostrata)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Yichuang Xu</author><author>Qiya Xu</author><author>Xinyu Hu</author><author>Jinyue Yang</author><author>Shaowei Zhai</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionHistamine commonly accumulates in animal–derived feed ingredients and is detrimental to aquaculture species, but the adverse consequences of dietary histamine remain inadequately characterized. Here, we explored the physiological influences of different dietary histamine levels on the growth performance, as well as the intestinal and hepatic health, of American eels, a fish species intolerant to histamine.MethodsFive diets were prepared with total histamine levels of 48.94, 198.19, 355.31, 492.44, and 641.37 mg kg-1, respectively. Following a 10-week feeding trial, growth performance, intestinal and hepatic morphology, antioxidant capacity, intestinal microbiota composition, and hepatic metabolites were analyzed.ResultsAmerican eels receiving diets with histamine levels exceeding 355.31 mg kg⁻¹ exhibited reduced growth performance, feed utilization, immune competence, intestinal mucosal and hepatocellular integrity, intestinal and hepatic antioxidant capacity, and intestinal digestive enzymes activities, along with elevated intestinal and hepatic malondialdehyde contents, compared to those fed the diet containing 48.94 mg kg-1 histamine. Omics profiling further indicated that, relative to the dietary histamine level of 48.94 mg kg-1, the 641.37 mg kg-1 dietary histamine restructured intestinal microbiota composition by reducing the abundance Enterococcus and Rhodococcus while increasing the levels of Haliangium, Stenotrophomonas, and Blastomonas; and affected hepatic aminoacyl–tRNA biosynthesis, glycine/serine/threonine metabolism, nicotinate/nicotinamide metabolism, and valine/leucine/isoleucine biosynthesis in American eels. Broken–line regression analysis of weight gain rate identified 260.11 mg kg-1 as the maximum tolerable dietary histamine level for American eels.ConclusionThese findings provide crucial insights regarding dietary histamine levels and underscore the importance of restricting histamine content in American eel diets.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1795118</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1795118</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Advancing entropy analysis for heart rate variability: clinical insights for aging and diabetes]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Shanglin Yang</author><author>Hsientsai Wu</author><author>Xuwei Liao</author><author>Yuyang Lin</author><author>Juin J. Liou</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Heart rate variability (HRV) entropy analysis is an emerging tool for assessing autonomic function, particularly in older and diabetic populations. Traditional HRV metrics, limited in capturing signal complexity, have been supplemented by advanced entropy methods such as multi-scale entropy (MSE), permutation entropy (PermEn), and the baroreflex entropy index (BEI). In this review, we introduce novel entropy indices, including percussion entropy (PercEn), and explore their potential to enhance HRV assessment. Additionally, we discuss the integration of novel data sources, such as pulse wave velocity (PWV) and crest time, offering an in-depth evaluation of autonomic dysfunction. Performance metrics such as classification accuracy (up to 92.5% in diabetic autonomic dysfunction prediction), sensitivity (87.3%), and specificity (89.1%) demonstrate the potential clinical utility of entropy-based HRV analysis. The key challenges include the prognostic value of entropy metrics, the impact of confounding factors, and the need for standardised methodologies. Advances in machine learning and wearable technology are also examined for real-time HRV monitoring and personalised healthcare. The findings highlight entropy analysis as a promising avenue for autonomic dysfunction assessment, with future research needed to optimise methodologies and establish clinical validation.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1792981</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1792981</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The effects of traditional Chinese mind-body training on physical health in university students: a multilevel meta-analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Yaochi Cui</author><author>Jinxuan Liu</author><author>Xuwei Jin</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of traditional Chinese mind-body practices on university students’ physical health and examine whether training characteristics such as duration and frequency influence these outcomes.MethodsThis systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) based on PICOS criteria. Effect sizes were reported as mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD). Data were synthesized using multilevel random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic and Cochran’s Q test. Subgroup analyses and two-level random-effects meta-regression were conducted to explore potential moderators, including intervention type, frequency, session duration, intervention cycle, and total training dose. Sensitivity analyses and publication bias assessments were performed, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE framework.ResultsEighteen RCTs were included. Traditional Chinese mind-body practices were associated with improvements in several physical health indicators, including vital capacity (SMD = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.56, P = 0.003, GRADE: Moderate), BMI (MD = −0.77, 95% CI: −1.48 to −0.06, P = 0.034, GRADE: Moderate), resting heart rate (MD = −1.16, 95% CI: −2.29 to −0.04, P = 0.043, GRADE: Moderate), sit-and-reach test (MD = 2.99, 95% CI: 1.59 to 4.38, P = 0.000, GRADE: Moderate), and pull-up/sit-up performance (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.67, P = 0.005, GRADE: Low). The three-level model suggested improvement in the standing long jump, but this was not robust in the two-level sensitivity analysis. No significant changes were observed in handgrip strength, step test index, 50-m Sprint, or single-leg stance test (SLST). Subgroup analyses indicated that Baduanjin combined with Yijinjing, session durations of 45–60 minutes, training three to seven times per week, and intervention periods of 12–16 weeks were associated with larger improvements, although these findings were exploratory.ConclusionTraditional Chinese mind-body training may improve several physical health indicators among university students, though effects varied across outcomes and interventions. Further large, well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the consistency and long-term significance of these findings.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251266434, identifier CRD420251266434.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1795058</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1795058</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Metabolic inflammation at the adipose-brain axis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Saudina Mateus-Gomes</author><author>Amnah Al-Sayyar</author><author>Baptiste Lobey</author><author>Agnes Nadjar</author><author>Rejane Rua</author><author>Rasheed Ahmad</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Overweight and obesity have emerged as global health crises and are increasingly recognized as drivers of central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. Beyond excess energy storage, white adipose tissue (WAT) functions as an active endocrine and immune organ that, during obesity, undergoes inflammatory remodeling and releases cytokines, lipid mediators, adipokines, and extracellular vesicles that influence brain physiology. These peripheral signals disrupt key brain interfaces, including the blood-brain barrier (BBB), perivascular and glymphatic clearance pathways, promoting endothelial dysfunction, altered astrocyte-pericyte support, impaired amyloid-β clearance, and region-specific glial activation. Obesity-associated neuroinflammation is characterized by microglial priming and astrocyte reactivity across the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and other circuits governing metabolism, cognition, and reward, with growing evidence for sex-dependent vulnerability. We further highlight adipokines as key mediators of adipose-brain communication. In obesity, leptin resistance impairs central energy regulation, reduced adiponectin contributes to neuroinflammation and synaptic dysfunction, and elevated resistin enhances TLR4-dependent inflammatory signaling and BBB permeability, collectively linking metabolic stress to neurodegenerative processes. Finally, we review therapeutic strategies targeting the adipose-brain axis, including exercise and dietary interventions that improve neuroplasticity and barrier integrity, and pharmacological approaches such as orlistat and incretin-based therapies. Emerging multi-incretin agonists, including tirzepatide and retatrutide, raise important questions regarding direct CNS actions beyond metabolic benefits, underscoring the need to integrate barrier biology and neuroimmune mechanisms in future studies.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1794215</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1794215</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Molecular mechanism of Danshen injection in treating endometrial fibrosis induced by intrauterine adhesions via the LAMC2-CD44-TGF-β1-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Sisi Tang</author><author>Renzhi Hu</author><author>Shuangyan Weng</author><author>Mei Luo</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionDanshen injection, derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, has been clinically validated for its safety and efficacy in treating various gynecological diseases, including endometrial fibrosis caused by Intrauterine Adhesion (IUA). However, its molecular mechanism in regulating the Laminin Subunit Gamma 2 (LAMC2)-CD44-TGF-β1-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway remains unclear.MethodsAn IUA rat model was established and treated with low-, medium-, or high-dose Danshen injection via tail vein injection. Endometrial injury and fibrosis were assessed by H&E and Masson’s staining, and epithelial/mesenchymal markers were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to characterize cellular composition, pathway enrichment, and predicted intercellular communication. In vitro, Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated uterine fibroblasts were used to examine LAMC2 expression, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-related marker changes, and TGF-β1/Smad signaling, with pathway interrogation using a CD44 blocker. Simultaneously, corresponding verification was conducted in vivo.ResultsDanshen injection improved uterine histopathology, increased endometrial gland number, and reduced collagen deposition in IUA rats. CK-19 and Vimentin showed changes consistent with epithelial–mesenchymal marker alterations, which were partially reversed after Danshen treatment. scRNA-seq revealed an increased fibroblast proportion in the Model group that decreased after Danshen intervention, with differentially expressed genes enriched in fibrosis-related pathways. Cell–cell communication analysis suggested reduced repair-associated signaling and increased LAMC2-associated interactions in the Model group. In vitro, LPS induced LAMC2 upregulation and activation of TGF-β1/SMAD2/3 signaling, which was attenuated by CD44 blockade; similarly, Danshen injection and CD44 inhibition reduced LAMC2 and TGF-β1/SMAD2/3 activation in vivo.ConclusionDanshen injection may mitigate endometrial fibrosis in IUA, potentially by modulating fibroblast abundance, reducing EMT-related changes, and dampening LAMC2-CD44-associated TGF-β1/SMAD2/3 signaling.]]></description>
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