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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>
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        <pubDate>2026-08-05T22:29:52.987+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
        <item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1871948</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1871948</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Exercise triggers integrated lipid, sphingolipid and purine metabolic alterations in midlife women]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Shamma Almuraikhy</author><author>Maha Sellami</author><author>Khaled Naja</author><author>Najeha Anwardeen</author><author>Haya Al-Sulaiti</author><author>Husam Eldin Elhag Abugabr Elhag</author><author>Mohamed A. Elrayess</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundRegular moderate physical activity helps prevent cardiometabolic diseases, yet the underlying molecular pathways, particularly in women in early to mid-adulthood, remain incompletely understood. Women aged 30–50 years undergo hormonal and metabolic transitions that may modify both cardiometabolic risk and responsiveness to exercise. This study investigated exercise-induced changes in serum metabolic signatures in women aged 30–50 years following 8 weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic training (MAT).MethodThirty-nine healthy pre-menopause females (30–50 years) with a BMI of 26.5–33.5 kg/m2 completed an 8-week supervised moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program. Fasting blood samples were collected before and after the intervention. Serum targeted quantitative metabolic profiling and clinical traits were assessed.ResultsUnivariate analysis revealed a coordinated post-exercise upregulation of dihydroceramides, glycosylceramides, ceramides, acylcarnitines (e.g., C14:2, C3-DC/C4-OH), diacylglycerols(DG 16:0_20:4, DG O-18:2_18:2),triacylglycerols, selected cholesterol esters (e.g., CE 20:3), cystine, and the nucleobase-related metabolite xanthine, alongside decreases in specific phosphatidylcholines species (PC O-30:2, PC O-28:0, PC O-30:0, PC 42:2, LPC 26:0), the amino acid serine, and CE 14:0,decrease in DG 18:1_18:1, CE 14:1, CE 14:0 and the amino acid–related metabolite cystine. Post-exercise correlation analysis identified distinct associations between metabolic profiles and clinical traits, with higher physical activity (metabolic equivalent of task, MET) positively linked to selected ceramide species (Cer d18:1/16:0, Cer d18:2/18:0).ConclusionModerate aerobic exercise in midlife women elicits a coordinated serum metabolomic response characterized by remodeling of lipid and sphingolipid pathways, increased fatty acid related mitochondrial handling, and elevated energy/redox turnover. The upregulation of dihydroceramides, glycosylceramides, ceramides, acylcarnitines, glycerolipids, cholesterol esters, and xanthine, together with reductions in specific phosphatidylcholines, cystine and serine, supports an exercise-induced “lipid sphingolipid energy stress” signature. Distinct associations of ceramide, glyceride, and purine species with MET, insulin indices, BMI, HDL, and catalase further suggest that these metabolites are promising candidate markers of exercise adaptation in midlife women.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1892141</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1892141</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Association between the apolipoprotein B/albumin ratio and the risk of kidney stones in adults]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Leilei Ke</author><author>Haibo Qin</author><author>Fengcheng Wang</author><author>Tong Yin</author><author>Xudong Shen</author><author>Zongyao Hao</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundKidney stones are widely considered a disease closely related to systemic metabolic disorders and systemic inflammation. The apolipoprotein B to albumin ratio (ApoB/Alb ratio) is a novel comprehensive biomarker that combines atherogenic lipid levels with systemic nutritional and inflammatory status. This study integrated data from two independent cohorts to explore the association between the serum ApoB/Alb ratio and the risk of kidney stones in adults.MethodsThe Chinese single-center retrospective cohort included 741 subjects (223 kidney stone patients and 518 healthy controls) evaluated from March 2022 to September 2025. For external validation, 12,108 adult participants from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database (2007–2016) were included. Multivariate logistic regression analysis evaluated the independent association, while restricted cubic spline (RCS) smoothing curve fitting explored the dose-response relationship.ResultsIn the Chinese cohort, the serum ApoB/Alb ratio in the kidney stone group was significantly higher than in the control group (1.92 ± 0.52 vs. 1.84 ± 0.47, P = 0.048). After adjusting for comprehensive confounding factors, an elevated ApoB/Alb ratio was identified as a significant risk factor for kidney stones (OR = 3.26, 95% CI: 1.98–5.38). This significant positive association was highly consistent in the US NHANES validation cohort (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.06–1.58). RCS analysis revealed a continuous positive linear dose-response relationship between the ApoB/Alb ratio and the prevalence of kidney stones in both cohorts. Furthermore, sensitivity and subgroup analyses demonstrated that this predictive value remains robust and is largely independent of traditional metabolic comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes.ConclusionAs a comprehensive indicator of lipid metabolic disorders and inflammatory/nutritional imbalance, the ApoB/Alb ratio serves as a novel, highly sensitive, and reliable biomarker for predicting kidney stone risk.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1905928</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1905928</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Identification of modifiable gait parameters predictive of simulated tibial stress-fracture risk in men and women]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Sridevi Nagaraja</author><author>Jose E. Rubio</author><author>Manivannan Subramaniyan</author><author>Junfei Tong</author><author>Michael Baggaley</author><author>W. Brent Edwards</author><author>Jaques Reifman</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveThis exploratory study investigated the ability of biomechanical gait parameters to predict and stratify simulated tibial stress-fracture (SF) risk in young, healthy adults.MethodsWe analyzed 30 modifiable gait parameters (both kinematic and kinetic) for 21 men and 20 women when they ran with external loads (0, 11.3, or 22.7 kg) and the associated tibial SF risks during a simulated 10-week basic combat training in the U.S. military. To identify informative parameters and predict SF risk of the tibia, we separately developed personalized linear mixed-effects models for men and women. To stratify the SF risk, we developed logistic regression (LR) models.ResultsOut of all the 30 parameters, ankle joint reaction force was the most predictive for both men and women, followed by hip external rotation angle for men and hip adduction moment for women. Using these parameters, LR models yielded area under the curve values of 0.81-0.95. For kinematic parameters alone, ankle dorsiflexion angle was the most predictive for both men and women, followed by hip external rotation angle for men and hip flexion angle for women. The associated LR models yielded reasonable performance for women (0.72-0.82) but weaker performance for men (0.53-0.71).ConclusionWe identified modifiable gait parameters predictive of simulated tibial SF risk in men and women and developed models based on kinematic and kinetic parameters that adequately predicted at-risk individuals. In the future, upon independent validation, this work has the potential to help identify recruits who may benefit from individualized training regimens and proactive interventions to reduce injury risk.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1880612</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1880612</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Depth-specific responses to 8-week additional aquatic plyometric training on explosive performance and start-turn metrics in collegiate male swimmers]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Mian Xu</author><author>Minyue Hou</author><author>Junsheng Cao</author><author>Minyu Hu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundAquatic plyometric training (APT) may improve explosive performance while reducing impact loading; however, the extent to which immersion depth influences transfer to swimming-specific start and turn performance remains unclear. This exploratory randomized study compared depth-specific responses to 8 weeks of additional aquatic plyometric-style training performed at different immersion depths in collegiate male swimmers who maintained regular swim training.MethodsThirty collegiate male swimmers were randomized to shallow (knee/patella), mid-depth (waist/umbilicus), or deep (xiphoid/chest) APT groups. Participants completed two APT sessions per week for 8 weeks while maintaining regular swim training. Countermovement jump, squat jump, 15-m start time, turn 5-m in time, wall contact time, and turn 5-m out time were assessed before and after the intervention using high-speed video. Three trials were averaged for each outcome. Linear mixed-effects models were used to test group-by-time interactions, and within-rater reliability was assessed in a subsample of 10 participants.ResultsSignificant group-by-time interactions were observed for countermovement jump (p = 0.033), squat jump (p = 0.009), 15-m start time (p <0.001), and wall contact time (p = 0.016), indicating depth-dependent patterns of change. All groups showed favorable within-group changes in countermovement jump, squat jump, and 15-m start time, with the largest mean changes generally observed in the mid-depth group. Turn 5-m out time improved within groups, but the group-by-time interaction did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.095). No significant interaction was observed for turn 5-m in time (p = 0.457). Video-derived outcomes showed excellent within-rater reliability (ICC = 0.991-0.997; CV = 0.19%-1.40%).ConclusionIn collegiate male swimmers who maintained regular swim training, 8 weeks of additional APT was associated with favorable changes in lower-limb explosive performance and selected race-section metrics. Immersion depth appeared to influence the magnitude of adaptation, with the mid-depth condition showing larger mean changes in several outcomes, particularly compared with deep immersion, whereas differences between mid-depth and shallow immersion were less consistent. These findings should be interpreted as depth-specific responses to additional aquatic plyometric-style training performed alongside regular swim training, rather than as definitive evidence that APT alone caused the observed changes or is superior to other training approaches.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1810607</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1810607</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Evaluating the analgesic effect of metamizole in the mouse model for DSS-induced acute colitis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>D. T. Jacob</author><author>L. M. Keubler</author><author>A. Glasenapp</author><author>K. Selke</author><author>M. Buettner</author><author>L. Wenzel</author><author>S. Buchheister</author><author>S. Lutscher</author><author>H. Bähre</author><author>M. Bankstahl</author><author>A. Bleich</author><author>C. Häger</author>
        <description><![CDATA[A commonly used mouse model of ulcerative colitis is the Dextran Sodium Sulphate (DSS) colitis model, including symptoms of weight loss, softening of stool up to diarrhea, and abdominal pain. To address 3R-refinement, we aimed to reduce severity in this model through pain therapy with metamizole. In addition to the potential analgesic effect, we investigated whether metamizole had a modulatory effect on inflammatory processes. In the study, ten-week-old female C57BL/6J mice were used. For pharmacological analysis, mice were treated with 200 mg/kg/d metamizole over 2 days to calculate baseline plasma concentration of metamizole metabolites using LC-MS/MS. After 14 days, DSS was administered via drinking water for 5 days, followed by metamizole for 2 days to determine plasma concentration. To assess disease severity and pain therapy, mice received DSS via drinking water for 5 days, controls received water only. Mice were then treated with metamizole via the drinking water for an additional 5 days, while corresponding sub-cohorts were left untreated (water+water, water+metamizole, DSS+water, DSS+metamizole). For severity assessment, changes in bodyweight, posture, stool consistency, voluntary wheel running (VWR) and Mouse Grimace Scale (MGS) were analyzed. Furthermore, colon samples were used for histology and gene expression analyses. LC-MS/MS analysis revealed significantly higher plasma concentrations of 4-methylaminoantipyrine and increased concentrations of 4-aminoantipyrine following DSS and subsequent metamizole treatment when compared to baseline. Assessing disease severity in control mice (water+water or water+metamizole-treated) demonstrated no clinical signs or changes in VWR. DSS+water and DSS+metamizole treated mice showed similar loss of body weight and clinical signs. VWR performances were decreased in DSS+water-treated mice as well as in DSS+metamizole-treated mice. There were no statistically significant differences between untreated and metamizole-treated animals with DSS-colitis. Interestingly, none of the groups showed elevated MGS scores, nor did the gene expression analyses detect relevant differences. This study showed that administering metamizole via drinking water led to detectable levels of metamizole metabolites in the plasma of treated mice. However, metamizole did not reduce disease severity or pain in this mouse model. Therefore, other refinement strategies should be explored in future studies.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1886058</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1886058</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Xanthohumol and its non-estrogenic derivatives link to the gut-liver-brain axis to improve cognition in mice with diet-induced obesity]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Alexandra Alexiev</author><author>Keaton Stagaman</author><author>Kristin Kasschau</author><author>Yang Zhang</author><author>Jacob Raber</author><author>Adrian F. Gombart</author><author>Claudia S. Maier</author><author>Jan F. Stevens</author><author>Thomas J. Sharpton</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Obesity-associated cognitive decline represents a growing public health concern, yet the mechanisms linking high-fat diet (HFD) to neurological impairment remain incompletely understood. Xanthohumol (XN) and its non-estrogenic derivatives, tetrahydroxanthohumol (TXN) and α,β-dihydro-xanthohumol (DXN), improve metabolic dysfunction and cognitive impairment associated with diet-induced obesity. The mechanisms underlying these cognitive benefits remain poorly defined, but all three compounds improve glucose tolerance, spatial learning and memory in obese C57BL/6J mice. We hypothesized that the gut-liver-brain axis associates with these effects through modulation of gut microbial functional capacity and host ceramide metabolism. To test this, we integrated shotgun metagenomes with lipidomic and behavioral data from male C57BL/6J mice fed a HFD supplemented with XN, TXN, or DXN to determine (1) whether supplementation differentially alters gut metagenome functional capacity, (2) whether variation in the gut metagenome links to cognitive outcomes, and (3) whether supplementation-induced variation in the gut metagenome is associated with alterations in ceramide and bile acid levels in the liver and hippocampus. We found that microbial gene abundance was associated with spatial learning outcomes across all treatment groups, including genes involved in tryptophan metabolism. Gut microbiome composition was also linked to ceramide levels in both hepatic and hippocampal tissues, with C22 ceramide emerging as a shared biomarker. TXN supplementation additionally reduced secondary bile acids HDCA and a DCA-isomer, extending prior 16S rRNA-based findings to the level of microbial gene function. Collectively, these results are consistent with a model in which XN and its derivatives act upon the gut-liver-brain axis to improve cognition in obese mice in association with changes to gut microbial functional capacity (most notably in bile acid and ceramide metabolism, with tryptophan metabolism as a secondary observation).]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1808306</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1808306</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Norovirus infection in pediatric acute gastroenteritis: epidemiology and clinical features in Ezhou, China, 2023–2025]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Dan Luo</author><author>Siyue Tang</author><author>Yingru Liu</author><author>Shan Guo</author><author>Zhi Yu</author><author>Meichan Xu</author><author>Jiachan Zhang</author><author>Huifen Huang</author><author>Qiaoyu Pan</author><author>Lijuan Huang</author><author>Fei Wang</author><author>Yuan Gao</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveNorovirus (NoV) is a major pathogen causing acute gastroenteritis (AGE) worldwide, imposing a substantial disease burden. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological, clinical and genotypic characteristics of NoV infection in pediatric patients with AGE in Ezhou, central China.MethodsBetween January 2023 and June 2025, we enrolled pediatric AGE patients from Ezhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital and collected their demographic profiles, clinical records and stool specimens, together with matched local meteorological data. All stool samples were screened for NoV using a commercial colloidal gold immunoassay kit. A randomly selected subset of NoV−positive samples was further subjected to genetic sequencing.ResultsAmong the 8,435 enrolled pediatric patients, 422 (5.0%) tested positive for NoV, with annual positivity rates of 4.24% (2023), 5.89% (2024), and 4.57% (January-June 2025). The positive cases comprised 259 males and 163 females. Children aged 1–2 years had the highest NoV positivity rate. The epidemic period spanned winter to spring, corresponding to ambient humidity of 66.5%–69.95%. Typical clinical presentations included fever, vomiting, watery diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, convulsions, lethargy and electrolyte disturbances. Genetic sequencing identified three NoV genotypes across the 2.5-year surveillance period: GII.17, GII.3 and GII.4.ConclusionsNoV infection prevalence rose continuously in Ezhou during the 2.5-year study period, with seasonal peaks in winter and spring. GII.17 was the dominant genotype among sequenced isolates. Children aged 1–2 years constitute the highest-risk population and exhibit a wide range of clinical manifestations. Fecal colloidal gold immunoassay serves as a practical screening tool for NoV detection in pediatric populations at primary medical institutions.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1856143</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1856143</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Thermoregulation in hot-dry and warm-humid heat stress during cycling among males]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Xiujing Zhao</author><author>Brendon P. McDermott</author><author>Cory L. Butts</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionHot-dry (HD) and warm-humid (WH) environments with equivalent wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) may be expected to produce similar physiological strain; however, previous studies have reported divergent thermoregulatory and cardiovascular responses. This study compared heat storage, thermal, and cardiovascular responses between HD and WH conditions with matched WBGT during cycling. MethodsTen healthy, active, non-heat-acclimatized males completed two randomized crossover trials consisting of 60 minutes of cycling at an individualized workload corresponding to 55% of peak power output in HD (39.2°C, 30% relative humidity [RH]) and WH (34.2°C, 55% RH) conditions with equivalent WBGT (~30°C). Heat storage, dry heat loss (DHL), and evaporative heat loss (EHL) were estimated using partitional calorimetry. Rectal temperature (Tre), mean skin temperature (Tsk), and cardiovascular responses were measured throughout the trials.ResultsNo condition differences were observed for cumulative heat storage, Tre, heart rate, blood pressure, or forearm skin blood flux (all p > .050). Tsk (HD: 36.28 ± 0.67°C, WH: 35.89 ± 0.70°C; p = .030, ηp² = .465) and EHL (HD: 450 ± 53 W, WH: 319 ± 30 W; p < .001, ηp² = .932) were greater in HD, whereas DHL was greater in WH (HD: −80 ± 25 W; WH: 48 ± 25 W; p < .001, ηp² = .950). Conclusion: Despite similar heat storage and cardiovascular strain, matched-WBGT environments altered the mechanisms of heat exchange. Thus, ambient temperature, humidity, and workload should be considered alongside WBGT when monitoring heat strain and selecting heat-mitigation strategies.ConclusionDespite similar heat storage and cardiovascular strain, matched-WBGT environments altered the mechanisms of heat exchange. Thus, ambient temperature, humidity, and workload should be considered alongside WBGT when monitoring heat strain and selecting heat-mitigation strategies.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1909816</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1909816</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Artificial intelligence for pathologic myopia classification based on the META-PM system: a systematic review and meta-analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Yuting Hu</author><author>Xiaoyan Wang</author><author>Yuke Ji</author><author>Yuming Chen</author><author>Ziqi Liang</author><author>Sheng Wu</author><author>Mingying Lai</author><author>Weihua Yang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundArtificial intelligence (AI) has shown considerable potential for pathologic myopia (PM) detection, yet its overall diagnostic performance under the META-PM classification framework remains uncertain.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and Embase up to February 10, 2026. Studies applying deep learning models for PM classification using the META-PM system were included. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic (HSROC) analyses were calculated. Twelve studies were eligible for the systematic review, of which ten were included in the meta-analysis.ResultsFor referable PM detection, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.96 (95% CI: 0.93–0.97) and 0.98 (95% CI: 0.96–0.99), respectively. For PM classification, the pooled macro-area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) reached 0.99 (95% CI: 0.98–1.00), indicating excellent overall diagnostic performance. Fagan nomogram analysis demonstrated favorable post-test probabilities across different clinical scenarios. The meta-regression identified external validation and image input resolution as significant sources of heterogeneity across studies.ConclusionOverall, AI demonstrates outstanding performance for automated PM detection and grading under the META-PM framework. Future studies should focus on multicenter external validation, prospective clinical evaluation, and integration with emerging ultra-widefield imaging technologies to facilitate real- world implementation in primary eye-care screening and risk stratification systems.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD420261351134.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1877336</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1877336</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Partial ischemia as molecular medicine: molecular mechanisms and clinical horizons of blood flow restriction training]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Sirui Wang</author><author>Taiwei Guo</author><author>Yating Zhang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundBlood flow restriction (BFR) exercise combines low-intensity contractions with partial arterial inflow restriction and venous occlusion to generate a localized hypoxic, metabolite-rich milieu that activates a broad spectrum of molecular pathways.AimTo synthesize contemporary (2020–2026) evidence on the systemic molecular effects of BFR across skeletal-muscle, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, and neuromuscular systems, and to connect these mechanisms to clinical practice.ApproachNarrative review supported by a structured PubMed/Web of Science/Scopus search prioritizing randomized trials and recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses.Key findingsBFR engages mTORC1 signaling, myostatin suppression, satellite-cell proliferation, HIF-1α stabilization, and angiogenic gene expression to produce hypertrophic and functional outcomes broadly comparable to high-load resistance training; it elicits acute endocrine (growth hormone, IGF-1, testosterone, catecholamines) and metabolic (lactate, reactive oxygen species, AMPK) responses, together with cardiovascular, immune, and neural adaptations whose systemic clinical magnitude is modest and population-dependent. It is worth noting that the hypertrophic and signaling effects described arise from low-load contraction performed under occlusion; neither section implies an anabolic effect of passive occlusion without contraction.ConclusionBFR is a mechanistically distinct and broadly applicable modality whose clinical value depends on rigorous individualization, careful safety stratification, and continued mechanistic investigation.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1882530</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1882530</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Urban–rural differences in BMI status, 24-hour movement guideline compliance, executive functions, and motor skills in preschool children: a cross-sectional study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Mohamed Amine Ltifi</author><author>Sonia Meksi</author><author>Abdulazeem Alotaibi</author><author>Mohamed Souhaiel Chelly</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundEarly childhood is a critical developmental period during which weight status, 24-hour movement behaviors (MB), executive functions (EF), and motor skills (MS) interact to influence long-term health and development. However, few studies have simultaneously examined these domains among preschool children in North African countries, particularly considering urban–rural differences. Therefore, this study investigated urban–rural differences in body mass index (BMI) categories, 24-hour MB, EF, and MS among Tunisian preschool children.MethodsA cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Tunisian preschool children. The sample included 112 children, of whom 74 were from urban areas and 38 from rural areas (50 boys and 62 girls), aged 4–5 years (mean age: 4.10 ± 0.58 years). BMI categories were defined according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Anthropometric measurements were used to calculate BMI-for-age z-scores and classify children as below normal, normal, or above normal. Twenty-four-hour MB, including physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep, were objectively assessed using accelerometers over five consecutive days. EF (inhibition and working memory) were assessed using standardized cognitive tests. Gross MS were evaluated using the Supine Timed Up and Go, One-Leg Standing Balance, Hand Grip Dynamometer, and Standing Long Jump tests, while fine MS were assessed using the 9-Hole Pegboard Test.ResultsSignificant differences between BMI categories were found for most anthropometric variables. Children with BMI above normal showed higher body weight and BMI-for-age z-scores. No significant differences were observed for accelerometer-derived MB, EF, or MS. However, BMI categories were associated with adherence to some 24-hour movement recommendations. While 76.4% met physical activity guidelines and 81.3% met sleep recommendations, only 18% adhered to all integrated guidelines.ConclusionsThese findings suggest associations between BMI categories and anthropometric differences, while no clear associations were observed with variations in MB, EF, or motor competence. Urban–rural differences in adherence to some movement recommendations suggest a potential role of environmental context in children’s daily behaviors. Given the cross-sectional and observational design, results should be interpreted with caution. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the complex interactions between weight status, MB, cognitive development, and MS in early childhood.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1866784</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1866784</link>
        <title><![CDATA[ADORA2A activation restores lysosomal function and photoreceptor outer segment degradation in stressed retinal pigment epithelium]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Daodian Tao</author><author>Daiying Zhou</author><author>Mingjuan Wu</author><author>Peiling Xie</author><author>Yunhao Zhang</author><author>Jing Bao</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) involves early retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) dysfunction and impaired processing of photoreceptor outer segments (POS). We investigated whether ADORA2A regulates post-ingestive POS handling and lysosomal recovery under AMD-relevant stress.MethodsA2E-stressed ARPE-19 cells, primary porcine RPE cells, and a sodium iodate-induced mouse model were studied. ADORA2A was activated with CGS21680 and inhibited with ZM241385. POS handling, LC3B/Rubicon association with POS, lysosomal function, Rubicon depletion, chronic stress phenotypes, and retinal protection were assessed.ResultsA2E increased ADORA2A expression while preserving receptor-dependent cAMP responsiveness. CGS21680 had modest effects on early POS binding and uptake but enhanced post-ingestive POS clearance and rhodopsin degradation; these effects were attenuated by ZM241385 and ADORA2A knockdown. CGS21680 increased LC3B and Rubicon association with POS-containing structures, improved lysosomal acidification, and restored DQ Green BSA processing, Cathepsin D activity, and V-ATPase-associated assembly. Bafilomycin A1 increased LC3-II and p62 accumulation and impaired CGS21680-associated POS clearance, supporting lysosome-dependent turnover. Rubicon depletion attenuated CGS21680-associated improvements in POS clearance and lysosomal acidification. CGS21680 also reduced chronic stress-associated autofluorescence, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and junctional disruption. These protective effects were reproduced in primary RPE cells. In sodium iodate-injured mice, CGS21680 preserved outer retinal structure, reduced FITC-BSA leakage, improved electroretinographic responses, and was accompanied by increased CREB phosphorylation and recovery of Cathepsin D proteolytic competence.ConclusionADORA2A activation promotes Rubicon-associated, lysosome-dependent LC3 processing of internalized POS and restores lysosomal degradative competence, supporting ADORA2A as a potential therapeutic target for early AMD.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1847856</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1847856</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Load-specific post-activation performance enhancement from back squats in male collegiate basketball players: moderate loads preferentially enhance jump performance and lower-limb EMG activation]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Zhan Gao</author>
        <description><![CDATA[PurposeTo compare the acute effects of pre-activation with different loads of back squat on multiple jumping performances and lower limb electromyographic (EMG) activity in male collegiate basketball players, and to provide evidence for load selection and timing of pre-game warm-up activation.MethodsIn a randomized, parallel-group controlled design, 40 male collegiate basketball players meeting inclusion criteria were assigned to 70%, 80%, 90% 1RM squat groups and a control group. Each experimental group performed 3 sets × 4 repetitions of parallel back squat as a conditioning activity (CA), while the control group rested quietly. Countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), approach vertical jump (AVJ), and standing long jump (SLJ) were assessed before intervention and at 4, 8, and 12 min post-intervention. Ground reaction force and surface EMG of 8 muscles on the dominant lower limb were recorded simultaneously during CMJ and SJ. Jump height/distance, reactive strength index (RSI), elastic utilization ratio (EUR), and EMG root mean square (RMS) were calculated. A 4 (group) × 4 (time point) repeated-measures ANOVA was applied.ResultsJumping performance showed significant main effects of time under different squat loads, with peak post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) mainly occurring at 8–12 min post-CA. Compared with 90% 1RM, the 70%–80% 1RM groups exhibited more stable improvements in CMJ, SJ, AVJ, and RSI, along with more consistent within-muscle increases in normalized RMS for rectus femoris (RF), biceps femoris (BF), and lateral gastrocnemius (LG), with minor changes in EUR.ConclusionModerate-load back squat CA induces marked PAPE in male collegiate basketball players within a short time window, with 8–12 min being the optimal period for performance enhancement. Within the load range of this study, moderate-to-high intensity squat appears more effective than high-intensity conditions in acutely improving jumping performance and enhancing within-muscle normalized EMG responses in selected lower-limb muscles. Descriptively, considering static and reactive jump indices and EMG outcomes together, 80% 1RM showed a favorable overall response pattern in this sample, without implying direct statistical superiority over 70% 1RM These findings provide a reference for optimizing basketball-specific warm-up activation programs.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1828506</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1828506</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Personalized in silico modeling of cardiac ion channel variants to predict drug-induced proarrhythmia risk]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Alia Henedi</author><author>Jalal Cherkaoui</author><author>Stelian Camara Dit Pinto</author><author>Steven M. Levine</author><author>Mohammed Cherkaoui</author><author>Nicolas R. Gallo</author><author>Kenza E. Benzeroual</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionDrug-induced cardiotoxicity remains a leading cause of drug development failures and market withdrawals. Despite advances in preclinical testing, current in-silico models often overlook genetic variability, limiting their ability to capture patient-specific responses. We present a computational modeling framework that integrates known genetic variants in cardiac ion channels to predict individual diNerences in drug-induced arrhythmogenic risk.MethodsWe simulated concentration-dependent eNects of amiodarone across combinations of hERG and Nav1.5 alleles in five human cardiac cell types: endocardial, epicardial, midwall, Purkinje, and atrial cells. APD90 values were evaluated across all cell types, whereas qNet was calculated in ventricular cells only to assess genotype and cell type dependent diNerences in electrophysiological response and torsadogenic risk.ResultsOur results highlight how genetic variations and cell type context influence electrophysiological response to amiodarone, uncovering high-risk profiles otherwise masked in population-averaged models. These simulations reveal key insights with translational and regulatory relevance: genetic background meaningfully alters drug response; midmyocardial cells are disproportionately vulnerable; the same mutation can produce diNerent eNects across cell types; Purkinje cells may serve as silent proarrhythmic substrates; and celltype- specific diNerences in APD90 and qNet may provide additional insight beyond APD prolongation alone, and consequently improve prediction of torsades de pointes risk.ConclusionOur work provides a foundation for the creation of digital twin models that incorporate patient-specific electrophysiology, oNering a scalable platform for in-silico cardiac safety. By linking genetic polymorphisms to context-dependent functional outcomes, this approach supports early-stage candidate prioritization, oNers a scalable platform for genotype-specific risk stratification, and advances the implementation of precision cardiotoxicity screening in drug development and clinical safety assessments.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1859434</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1859434</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Inactivation of interleukin-15 reduces spontaneous atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Omid Dadoo</author><author>B. Sumayyah H. Sokeechand</author><author>Anna Lee</author><author>Mark T. Fuller</author><author>Yu Chang David Wang</author><author>Melissa E. MacDonald</author><author>Nicole L. Batenburg</author><author>Suleiman A. Igdoura</author><author>Carl D. Richards</author><author>Ali A. Ashkar</author><author>Bernardo L. Trigatti</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionInterleukin (IL)-15 is essential for the survival and maturation of natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T cells, and it directly activates macrophages.MethodsIn the present study, we examined the effects of inactivating Il-15 on atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein (apo) E-deficient mice.Results and discussionAs expected, Il-15 deficiency reduced circulating NK and CD8+ T cells in ApoE−/− mice. It also increased body weights in female but not male ApoE−/− mice and increased plasma total cholesterol levels in both. Despite this, the Il-15 knockout reduced spontaneous atherosclerotic plaque development in both male and female ApoE−/− mice (fed a normal diet) at 25 weeks of age, and in female normal diet-fed ApoE−/− mice at 15 weeks but not at 38 weeks of age. Furthermore, Il-15 knockout did not impact the levels of atherosclerosis in 25-week-old female ApoE−/− mice fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet for 15 weeks. However, the 6-week treatment with an antibody (M96) that blocks IL-15’s interaction with the IL-2Rβγc complex but does not interfere with its interaction with IL-15Rα reduced spontaneous atherosclerosis in female ApoE−/− mice. ApoE knockout mice in which IL-15 was inactivated or neutralized with an antibody exhibited reduced accumulation of CD11b+ and CD8+ cells within atherosclerotic plaques. These findings demonstrate that interfering with IL-15 signaling through the IL-2Rβγc complex delays spontaneous atherosclerosis development in ApoE-deficient mice.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1908141</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1908141</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Heart rate variability and burnout risk among healthy employees in jobs involving interaction with others]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Irina Böckelmann</author><author>Jonas Hartung</author><author>Sabine Darius</author><author>Stefan Sammito</author><author>Beatrice Thielmann</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Interaction-intensive work is characterised by high social demands, stressful situations, and emotional regulation. It can therefore be a risk factor for high level of work-related stress and burnout. Chronic stress has been linked to changes in autonomic regulation, as reflected by heart rate variability (HRV), an objective indicator of stress. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between burnout risk and HRV in healthy employees engaged in high-interaction work. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 202 working adults (including nursery teachers, bank clerks and medical assistants) with an average age of 41.1 ± 11.4 years (median 40.4 years, range 22–63 years). Burnout risk was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI-GS). Participants were divided into three groups according to their burnout risk level. HRV was analysed comparatively across these three groups using 24-hour recordings as well as a 6-hour analysis during the day and at night. An increased risk of burnout was observed in 5.4% of the participants in the total sample. Significant differences in HRV between the three groups with and without varying levels of burnout risk were primarily observed in the 24-hour interval (including heart rate: p = 0.039; LF n.s., HF n.s. and LF/HF: p = 0.009 in each case) as well as in the 6-hour daytime interval for the MeanRR (p = 0.002), but not at night. Correlation analyses revealed predominantly weak associations between HRV and burnout dimensions. The strongest associations were observed in the daytime interval (e.g. MBI total score with LF ρ = −0.271; p < 0.01 and with pNN50 ρ = 0.271; p < 0.01). Age in particular proved was found to be a significant influencing factor in the analysis of variance, with large effect sizes on several HRV parameters (e.g. pNN50 η² = 0.178; RMSSD η² = 0.173). Even the first results suggest that work-related stress and burnout factors in healthy employees engaged in interactive work may be reflected in subtle changes in autonomic regulation, further analysis have shown that the effects are mainly driven by age and gender, two factors that have an impact on HRV. This shows that it is important to analysis not only autonomic regulation along e.g. by measuring HRV, but also to consider influencing co-factors that have an impact on them. On total, in the examined group it was not able to show a different between persons with high and low interactive work in subtle changes in autonomic regulation.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1912438</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1912438</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Dissolved oxygen levels differentially regulate ammonia metabolism plasticity in mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Hongyan Li</author><author>Jiaqi Xu</author><author>Guangjun Wang</author><author>Zhifei Li</author><author>Kai Zhang</author><author>Jingjing Tian</author><author>Yun Xia</author><author>Wenping Xie</author><author>Quanfa Zhong</author><author>Jun Xie</author><author>Wangbao Gong</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Dissolved oxygen (DO) is a key environmental factor affecting fish metabolism, yet its regulatory role in ammonia production, conversion, and excretion remains poorly understood. This study investigated how DO levels modulate ammonia metabolism plasticity in mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi) as a potential biological strategy for mitigating aquaculture-derived ammonia pollution. Fish were exposed to normoxia (6.05 ± 0.17 mg/L), hypoxia (2.67 ± 0.25 mg/L), or hyperoxia (9.73 ± 0.62 mg/L) for 48 h. Results showed that hypoxia caused oxidative stress, as evidenced by elevated MDA levels, suppressed SOD and CAT activities, and obvious tissue damage to the livers and gills of S. chuatsi. In response to this stress, both hypoxia and hyperoxia enhanced the antioxidant capacity of S. chuatsi via the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. Compared to the normoxia and hyperoxia groups, the ammonia excretion rate was significantly lower in the hypoxia group. Distinct adaptive strategies in ammonia homeostasis were observed under different DO conditions. Under hypoxic condition, S. chuatsi downregulated hepatic glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) to reduce ammonia production, upregulated carbamyl phosphate synthase 1 (cps1) to promote ammonia conversion to urea, and upregulated RH glycoproteins and Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (nhe3) as a compensatory response, ultimately leading to a 24.06% reduction in water NH4+-N accumulation at 48 h. In contrast, hyperoxia reduced ammonia production and increased urea conversion but did not enhance excretion. Instead, it improved ammonia tolerance in S. chuatsi. In summary, hypoxia reduced net ammonia excretion via integrated adjustments in production, conversion, and excretion, whereas hyperoxia enhanced ammonia tolerance without altering excretion. This DO-mediated metabolic plasticity provides a biological strategy for mitigating aquaculture-derived ammonia pollution by utilizing existing aeration to harness intrinsic fish physiology, supporting the development of sustainable aquaculture.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1900021</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1900021</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Transcriptomic analysis revealed the protective role of genistein against oxidized fish oil-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Lin Yang</author><author>Xiaoqian Zhou</author><author>Junfeng Hu</author><author>Ziyu Jia</author><author>Shuyun Jiang</author><author>Dan Xu</author><author>Zhijie Dan</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionExtensive investigations have been conducted across mammalian species to explore the redox-modulating and inflammation-resolving properties of genistein and the mechanisms involved; however, research on the functions of this compound in aquatic species stay insufficient. Therefore, the present research was designed to determine whether oxidative liver injury and inflammatory immune reactions in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) fed an oxidized fish oil diet could be ameliorated by genistein supplementation.MethodsIn this study, three dietary treatments were established: a fresh fish oil group (FFO), an oxidized fish oil group (OFO) in which fresh oil was completely replaced by oxidized oil, and a GEN40 group, where 40 mg/kg genistein was supplemented to the OFO basal diet. Juvenile turbot with an initial mean body mass of 10.00 ± 0.03 g were used in this study, and the feeding trial lasted 12 weeks.ResultsAs revealed by the results, hepatic mitochondrial impairment was induced in turbot by oxidized fish oil ingestion, as reflected by reduced cristae number, cristae disorganization, and concentric cristae formation, while a significant increase in hepatic superoxide anion abundance was also noted (P < 0.05). These mitochondrial alterations were partially alleviated by genistein supplementation, with which a marked decrease in superoxide anion levels was concurrently observed (P < 0.05). Moreover, the hepatic mRNA levels linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were markedly upregulated in the OFO group (P < 0.05), yet declined in the GEN40 group (P < 0.05). Transcriptomic analysis revealed that after genistein supplementation in oxidized fish oil-based diets, the DEGs were predominantly enriched in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways such as the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR), calcium signaling, and adrenergic signaling pathways. It was further revealed by Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis that the OFO group chiefly suppressed lipid catabolism and signal transduction, while activating the immune response. Compared with the FFO group, the genistein-treated group downregulated lipid metabolism and upregulated substance transport processes. Relative to the OFO group, it downregulated signal transduction and upregulated RNA-related catalytic activities. Moreover, methionine-S-sulfhydryl reductase B2 (msrb2) and heat shock protein 60 (hspd1) were identified as hub genes through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and were associated with the genistein-mediated alleviation of hepatic oxidative and inflammatory stress that was triggered by oxidized fish oil in turbot.DiscussionThe above results confirmed that adding 40 mg/kg of genistein to an oxidized fish oil-based diet significantly alleviated hepatic oxidative stress and inflammatory injury mediated by the oxidized fish oil; besides msrb2 and hspd1 possibly served a critical function in this process.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1826756</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1826756</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Myofiber stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 moderates MAFLD and metabolic syndrome in obese mice]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-03T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Andrew Guilfoyle-Speese</author><author>Cody Bridgewater</author><author>Caleb Padgett</author><author>Hunter Sellars</author><author>James Mintz</author><author>David Fulton</author><author>David Stepp</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionObesity-induced ectopic lipid accumulation inside skeletal muscle (SKM) (myosteatosis) and the liver (hepatosteatosis) contributes to local metabolic dysfunction and serves as a launchpad for the progression of diabetes. While stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1), an ER-bound enzyme that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) synthesis, is widely recognized as a lynchpin facilitator of steatosis, much controversy exists on its efficacy as a therapeutic target. In particular, a total lack of SKM-specific SCD1 KO models has greatly limited our understanding of SCD1-mediated myosteatosis’ relative contribution to metabolic syndrome.MethodsGlobal SCD1 knockout mice bred on the leptin receptor mutant (db/db) background (db/SCD1 mice) and SKM-specific inducible ACTA1-cre mice bred on the SCD1fl/fl background overexpressing agouti-related peptide (AgRP) had their body/tissue composition analyzed via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometry. Insulin-mediated metabolism was analyzed by screening blood/plasma for related metabolites. Lastly, we performed RT-qPCR to screen target metabolic genes.ResultsGlobal SCD1 deletion in db/db mice reduced weight gain and steatosis, leading to pathological liver remodeling and severe diabetes. Next, we found that SKM-restricted SCD1 deletion in adult mice with established obesity increased AgRP-induced weight gain while preserving whole-body fat composition. SKM SCD1 KO led to reduced myosteatosis while exacerbating hepatosteatosis and indices of insulin insensitivity. Whereas SKM responded to lack of myocellular SCD1 by inhibiting expression of trans-endothelial fatty acid chaperone FABP4, hepatosteatosis coincided with upregulation of SCD1 and downregulation of master regulator of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) PPARα in the liver.ConclusionsLoss of peripheral leptin-mediated FAO and SCD1-regulated lipid storage act synergistically to exacerbate hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and multi-organ quality decline, collectively promoting systemic inflammation and diabetes progression. Interestingly, AgRP mice adapt to selective inhibition of SCD1-mediated myosteatosis by expanding hepatosteatosis and precipitating metabolic syndrome. Gene expression data imply SCD1-KO–mediated impaired SKM lipid flux inhibits liver lipid metabolism in favor of storage. These results indicate a potent link between intramyocellular lipid storage capacity and the progression of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1803242</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1803242</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Association between dynamic changes in lumbar back temperature during professional driver training and lumbar muscle endurance: a longitudinal study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-03T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Xiaolong Sang</author><author>Li Yi</author><author>Yuhan Tian</author><author>Zhibo Wang</author><author>Chaoyue Sun</author><author>Xin Wang</author><author>Wei Gu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveTo investigate the dynamic changes in lumbar-back temperature associated with low back pain (LBP) during the training period of professional drivers and its influencing factors, analyze the correlations of infrared thermal imaging parameters with lumbar muscle endurance and LBP symptoms.MethodsA longitudinal follow-up study was conducted involving 135 male truck driving trainees from a driving school. The follow-up period spanned four months, with four assessment points (T1-T4). Ultimately, 132 trainees (18–30 years; mean 22.6 ± 2.2 years) completed the full follow-up (effective rate: 97.8%). Infrared thermography was employed to measure mean lumbar-dorsal temperature, temperature gradients, Cumulative Heat Alteration (CHA) and Jumpwise Unevenness Estimation (JUE) in the lower back. Concurrently, lumbar muscle endurance tests and physical measurements were conducted, while low back pain symptoms and functional impact were assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA, Pearson/Spearman correlation analysis, and multivariate linear regression, with a significance level of α=0.05.ResultsDuring training, the average lumbar-dorsal temperature initially increased gradually, then stabilized, before showing a marked decrease in the final phase; The lumbar temperature gradient continued to expand, with both group and individual temperature heterogeneity significantly increasing by the training’s conclusion (P<0.001). Correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlations between lumbar muscle endurance test duration and both CHA scores (R = 0.2, P = 0.02) and JUE scores (R = 0.25, P = 0.004). After adjusting for confounding factors such as Body Mass Index (BMI), regular physical exercise and muscle percentage, lumbar muscle endurance was the only statistically significant independent factor affecting CHA (P = 0.033) and JUE (P = 0.015). BMI showed a marginal correlation (0.05<P<0.2), and other variables had no independent statistical association.ConclusionDuring professional driver training, characteristic dynamic changes occur in lumbar-back temperature, and these changes are independently associated with lower back muscle endurance. These metrics provide a non-invasive reference for exploring the relationship between lumbar muscle function and LBP. Targeted lumbar endurance training combined with appropriate BMI management can support lumbar health protection for professional drivers and some sedentary populations.]]></description>
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