Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
2.3
Journals
Physiologia
Special Issues
Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition
share announcement

Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition

A special issue of Physiologia (ISSN 2673-9488).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 9220

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Philip J. Atherton

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
Interests: skeletal muscle; nutrition; metabolism; protein synthesis; ageing; cell signalling
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue is designed to publish high-quality papers in Physiologia, a new journal dedicated to recent advances in the research area of physiology. The Special Issue engages with topics including, but not limited to, the following: musculoskeletal physiology, endocrine physiology, adipose physiology, and cardiovascular physiology (in health, aging, and/or disease). This Special Issue will present a collection of research articles and review articles highlighting interesting results in the field of human physiology.

Over the past two years, our first two volumes have attracted a diverse range of high-quality contributions from renowned experts and emerging scholars alike. The publications have not only showcased the latest advancements and trends in human physiology but have also fostered valuable discussions and collaborations across the global research community. These articles can be accessed through the following links:

https://www.mdpi.com/journal/physiologia/special_issues/human_physiol;

https://www.mdpi.com/journal/physiologia/special_issues/27UWS2W0PF.

Following this, we intend to annually update the Special Issue to provide scholars with the most recent and innovative perspectives on human physiology. 

Prof. Dr. Philip J. Atherton
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Physiologia is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • musculoskeletal physiology
  • endocrine physiology
  • adipose physiology
  • cardiovascular physiology (in health, aging, and/or disease)

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Related Special Issues

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

14 pages, 652 KB  
Article
Outcome Analysis of Intensive Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Patients with COPD Exacerbation and Acute Respiratory Failure: A Single-Center Audit Aligned with Italian National Guidelines
by Luigi Di Lorenzo, Andrea Esposito, Nicola Pirraglia, Chiara Capaldi, Gianleno De Vita and Carmine D’Avanzo
Physiologia 2025, 5(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5030027 - 27 Aug 2025
Viewed by 998
Abstract
Background: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) and acute respiratory failure (ARF) are leading causes of hospitalization and functional decline in Italy, posing a significant burden on the healthcare system. In 2024, new national guidelines mandated the use of Intensive Care [...] Read more.
Background: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) and acute respiratory failure (ARF) are leading causes of hospitalization and functional decline in Italy, posing a significant burden on the healthcare system. In 2024, new national guidelines mandated the use of Intensive Care Rehabilitation Units (ICRUs) within MDC4 to provide structured post-acute respiratory rehabilitation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate functional outcomes in patients with AECOPD and ARF treated in a single ICRU, assessing the effectiveness of guideline-based rehabilitation protocols. Methods: A retrospective audit was conducted on patients admitted in 2024 to a dedicated ICRU. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Barthel Index, Six-Minute Walking Test (6MWT), and Rehabilitation Complexity Index (RCI-e13). Correlation analyses were performed to explore relationships between baseline status, rehabilitation progression, and discharge outcomes. Results: Thirty-six patients were included. Significant improvements were observed across all scales from admission to discharge. The Barthel Index showed a strong positive correlation between initial and final scores (r = 0.72), while the 6MWT indicated a similarly robust correlation (r = 0.73). Greater functional gains were noted among patients with lower baseline scores, especially in mobility. The RCI-e13 reflected decreased clinical complexity by discharge, with moderate correlations to baseline severity. Age moderately correlated with length of stay (r = 0.30), but not with outcome scores. Conclusions: The implementation of early, intensive rehabilitation in an ICRU setting—aligned with Italy’s 2024 national guidelines—led to measurable functional improvements in patients with AECOPD and ARF. These findings support the utility of structured outcome monitoring and reinforce the role of ICRUs in optimizing post-acute care pathways within respiratory rehabilitation services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 742 KB  
Article
Thirst Modulates Parasympathetic Recovery: Comparing Oral and Intravenous Rehydration
by Alan T. Ky, Ryan A. Dunn, Marcos S. Keefe and Yasuki Sekiguchi
Physiologia 2025, 5(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5020016 - 10 May 2025
Viewed by 898
Abstract
Introduction: Oral rehydration reduces thirst sensation (TS), which may negatively affect autonomic function, measured by heart-rate variability (HRV). However, it is unclear if this effect is independent of hydration changes. This study examines whether TS influences autonomic function between intravenous and oral rehydration. [...] Read more.
Introduction: Oral rehydration reduces thirst sensation (TS), which may negatively affect autonomic function, measured by heart-rate variability (HRV). However, it is unclear if this effect is independent of hydration changes. This study examines whether TS influences autonomic function between intravenous and oral rehydration. Methods: Twelve males (mean ± SD; age, 29 ± 12 years; 74.7 ± 7.9 kg; 179.4 ± 7.0 cm; VO2max, 49.8± 6.6 mL·kg−1·min−1) cycled at 55% VO2max for 90 min followed by a 12 km time trial. Two experimental conditions were performed in a counterbalanced, randomized order; (a) the high thirst (HT) group were infused 25 mL of isotonic saline every 5 min via an intravenous tube, and (b) the low thirst (LT) group ingested 25 mL of water every 5 min. TS and heart rate were collected every 5 min. HRV was assessed pre exercise, post steady-state exercise, and post time trial. HRV parameters included time domain, frequency domain, and non-linear measures analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Results: There was a significant time x condition for the root mean square of successive RR interval differences (RMSSDlog), high-frequency (HF) power, and SD1 (p < 0.05). In LT, RMSSDlog decreased from Pre to Mid (3.71 ± 0.61 ms to 2.53 ± 1.15 ms, p < 0.01) and Pre to Post (2.18 ± 0.90 ms, p < 0.01) but stabilized from Mid to Post (p = 0.39). High-frequency (HF) power in HT was maintained from Pre (3.7 ± 0.6 nu) to Mid (3.4 ± 0.8 nu, p = 0.21) but decreased from Pre to Post (2.5 ± 0.7 nu, p < 0.01) and Mid to Post (p < 0.01). LT decreased in HF power from Pre (3.7 ± 0.5 nu) to Mid (3.0 ± 0.8 nu, p < 0.01) and Pre to Post (3.0 ± 0.7 nu, p < 0.01); Mid and Post was maintained (p = 0.99). SD1, decreased in HT (Pre: 3.4 ± 0.4 ms, Mid: 2.0 ± 1.1 ms, Post: 1.1 ± 0.5 ms; all comparisons p < 0.05). In LT, SD1 decreased from Pre (3.4 ± 0.6 ms) to Mid (2.18 ± 1.15 ms, p < 0.01) and Pre to Post (1.83 ± 0.90 ms, p < 0.01), but stabilized Mid to Post (p = 0.39). Conclusion: Satiating thirst through oral rehydration increases parasympathetic activity post exercise, reducing stress and increasing recovery between exercise bouts. These findings have implications for optimizing rehydration strategies in sports and occupational settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1158 KB  
Article
Monitoring of Salivary Secretory Immunoglobulin A Quantified Two Methods During High-Altitude Volleyball Training Camp
by Ryota Sone, Kenji Yamamoto, Shinsuke Tamai, Honoka Goji and Kenji Ohishi
Physiologia 2025, 5(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5010008 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1122
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Volleyball training camps are known to reduce salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (s-SIgA); however, when it begins to decrease is unclear. The validity of a simple device for quantifying s-SIgA is lacking; hence, this study aimed to observe detailed s-SIgA changes during a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Volleyball training camps are known to reduce salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (s-SIgA); however, when it begins to decrease is unclear. The validity of a simple device for quantifying s-SIgA is lacking; hence, this study aimed to observe detailed s-SIgA changes during a volleyball training camp after moving to a high altitude and to investigate the difference in s-SIgA response between the two quantification methods, namely, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and lateral flow device (LFD). Methods: Twenty-four male university volleyball players participated in the observational study. Measurements were collected at three points of the training camp (days 1, 4, and 7). The s-SIgA was quantified using conventional ELISA and the new LFD method. Results: The s-SIgA concentrations quantified using the two methods decreased significantly by day 4 (p < 0.05) and continued to decrease until day 7 (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was found between the s-SIgA concentrations quantified using the LFD and ELISA (p < 0.05, rs = 0.319). Conclusions: These results indicate that a high-altitude volleyball training camp may suppress oral immune function by day 4 and that the evaluation of s-SIgA concentration using the LFD method is beneficial. A faster and easier method for assessing s-SIgA could contribute to athletes’ condition management strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 833 KB  
Article
Indexes of Fat Oxidation from Ramp vs. Graded Incremental Protocols in Postmenopausal Women
by Massimo Teso, Luca Ferrari, Alessandro L. Colosio and Silvia Pogliaghi
Physiologia 2025, 5(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5010003 - 6 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1178
Abstract
The maximal rate of fat oxidation (MFO, in g∙min−1) and the relative exercise intensity at which it occurs (FATmax, as %V̇O2max) are indexes of metabolic flexibility. The time-consuming, graded exercise protocol required for MFO/FATmax determination hinders [...] Read more.
The maximal rate of fat oxidation (MFO, in g∙min−1) and the relative exercise intensity at which it occurs (FATmax, as %V̇O2max) are indexes of metabolic flexibility. The time-consuming, graded exercise protocol required for MFO/FATmax determination hinders the extensive use of these indexes for individualized exercise prescription and monitoring. Purpose: validate ramp testing for MFO and FATmax measures in postmenopausal women. Methods: Seventeen healthy women (age: 54 ± 4 years, BMI 22 ± 3 kg·m−2, and V̇O2max 36.4 ± 5.3 mL·min−1), who were 4 ± 3 years from menopause, performed on a cycle-ergometer, a ramp, and a graded incremental test. Based on V̇O2 and respiratory exchange ratio from the ramp and graded protocol (i.e., the 5th minute of each step), MFO and FATmax were determined. Data from the two protocols were compared using paired t-tests, linear regression, and Bland–Altman analysis. Results: The MFO measured with a ramp protocol was not different from (0.24 ± 0.09 vs. 0.20 ± 0.08 g·min−1, p = 0.10), and moderately associated with, that of the graded protocol (r2 = 0.46). FATmax occurred at similar exercise intensity for both protocols (47.8 ± 5.1 vs. 47.5 ± 4.3 %V̇O2max, p = 0.91, r2 = 0.52). The comparison of MFO and FATmax across the protocols yields a non-significant bias but a relatively large limit of agreement (respectively, 0.05 g·min−1, LOA = −0.08, and 0.19 g·min−1; 0.3 %V̇O2max, LOA = −7.8, and 10.6 %V̇O2max). Conclusions: In postmenopausal women, ramp testing offers a valid alternative to the graded protocol for identifying MFO and FATmax. The availability of a time- and cost-efficient approach, which can be incorporated into standard ramp incremental testing, can facilitate using these indexes of metabolic flexibility in research and medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

15 pages, 2487 KB  
Review
Environmental Hydrogen Concentration as a Novel Factor Determining Changes in Redox Potential
by Teruo Kiyama
Physiologia 2025, 5(4), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5040036 - 23 Sep 2025
Abstract
Intracellular oxidation–reduction (redox) potential is a key factor regulating various physiological phenomena in the cell. Monitoring this potential change is therefore important for understanding physiological homeostasis in cells. Herein, we propose a new approach for the real-time, non-invasive estimation of the redox potential [...] Read more.
Intracellular oxidation–reduction (redox) potential is a key factor regulating various physiological phenomena in the cell. Monitoring this potential change is therefore important for understanding physiological homeostasis in cells. Herein, we propose a new approach for the real-time, non-invasive estimation of the redox potential impacting biological metabolism and reactive oxygen species generation. Enzymes, specifically oxidoreductases, play a crucial role in catalyzing redox reactions by facilitating the transfer of electrons and hydrogen atoms between molecules. The redox potential of substrates, such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is determined by the ratio of its oxidized and reduced forms, while that of enzymes, such as succinate dehydrogenase, is determined using the reference electrode in protein-film voltammetry. Although the standard hydrogen electrode potential is defined as zero under standard conditions, the electrode potential of a reversible hydrogen electrode changes according to the ratio of the hydrogen ions (H+) and hydrogen gas (H2) in the biological fluids, as a reference electrode. The pH is maintained at 7.4 ± 0.1 in the arterial blood and the H2 that produced by the gut microbiota is measured in the endo-tidal breath for clinical diagnosis. The H2 in the endo-tidal breath equilibrates arterial blood during gas exchange in the lungs, as well as in whole-body tissues, due to the systemic circulation. In this study, H2 can be measured in the environmental gas compared to the atmosphere, and may serve as a novel factor for redox potential changes in redox enzymes, impacting biological metabolism and reactive oxygen species generation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

30 pages, 1460 KB  
Systematic Review
Systematic Review of the Role of Kv4.x Potassium Channels in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Implications for Neuronal Excitability and Therapeutic Modulation
by Bárbara Teruel-Peña, Piedad Gómez-Torres, Sergio Galarreta-Aperte, Nora Suleiman-Martos, Isabel Prieto, Manuel Ramírez-Sánchez, Carmen M. Fernández-Martos and Germán Domínguez-Vías
Physiologia 2025, 5(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5030031 - 10 Sep 2025
Viewed by 390
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The voltage-gated potassium channels of the Kv4 family (Kv4.1, Kv4.2, Kv4.3) regulate neuronal excitability and synaptic integration. The dysregulation of these channels has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), spinocerebellar ataxias, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), prion diseases, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The voltage-gated potassium channels of the Kv4 family (Kv4.1, Kv4.2, Kv4.3) regulate neuronal excitability and synaptic integration. The dysregulation of these channels has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), spinocerebellar ataxias, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), prion diseases, and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Current evidence is scattered across diverse models, and a systematic synthesis is lacking. This review seeks to compile and analyze data on Kv4 channel alterations in neurodegeneration, focusing on genetic variants, functional changes, and phenotypic consequences. Methods: A systematic search was conducted for peer-reviewed studies, including human participants, human-derived cell models, and relevant animal models. Studies were considered eligible if they investigated Kv4.1–Kv4.3 (encoded by gene encoding the Kv4.1-Kv4.3 α-subunit of voltage-gated A-type potassium channels (KCND1-KCND3)) expression, function, or genetic variants, as well as associated auxiliary subunits such as DPP6 (dipeptidyl peptidase–like protein 6) and KChIP2 (Kv channel–interacting protein 2), in neurodegenerative diseases. Both observational and experimental designs were considered. Data extraction included disease type, model, Kv4 subunit, functional or genetic findings, and key outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed in all included studies. Results: Kv4 channels exhibit significant functional and expression changes in various neurodegenerative diseases. In AD and prionopathies, reduced Kv4.1- and Kv4.2-mediated currents contribute to neuronal hyperexcitability. In spinocerebellar ataxias, KCND3 mutations cause loss- or gain-of-function phenotypes in Kv4.3, disrupting cerebellar signaling. In models of ALS and PD, Kv4 dysfunction correlates with altered neuronal excitability and can be modulated pharmacologically. Subunit modulators such as DPP6 and KChIP2 influence channel function and could represent therapeutic targets. Conclusions: Kv4 channels are crucial for neuronal excitability in multiple neurodegenerative contexts. Dysregulation through genetic or pathological mechanisms contributes to functional deficits, highlighting Kv4 channels as promising targets for interventions aimed at restoring electrical homeostasis and mitigating early neuronal dysfunction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 1766 KB  
Brief Report
The Effects of Creatine Monohydrate and/or Whey Protein on the Muscle Protein Synthesis and Anabolic Signaling Responses in Non-Stressed C2C12 Murine Myotubes
by Nicholas J. Kontos, Joshua S. Godwin, Anthony Agyin-Birikorang, Darren G. Candow, Christopher M. Lockwood, Michael D. Roberts and Christopher B. Mobley
Physiologia 2025, 5(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia5020017 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 3134
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Creatine monohydrate (CRE) is a popular nutritional supplement that increases lean/muscle mass accretion. Although data regarding CRE and its effects on muscle protein synthesis are mixed, we hypothesized that CRE may potentiate/extend the anabolic response to essential amino acids given that [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Creatine monohydrate (CRE) is a popular nutritional supplement that increases lean/muscle mass accretion. Although data regarding CRE and its effects on muscle protein synthesis are mixed, we hypothesized that CRE may potentiate/extend the anabolic response to essential amino acids given that CRE acts as a high-energy phosphate buffer to potentially amplify anabolic signaling. Therefore, we used an in vitro model to determine whether CRE synergistically enhances myotube protein synthesis and the anabolic signaling responses to EAA-rich whey protein (WP). Methods: C2C12 murine myotubes were treated with control media containing PBS (CTL), WP serum (5 mg/mL), CRE (10 mM), or WP + CRE. Myotubes were collected following 1, 4, and 24 h treatments (n = 6 replicates per treatment and time point) and assayed for relative creatine levels, myotube protein synthesis levels, and phosphorylation markers. Results: Cellular creatine levels were greater in CRE and WP + CRE versus CTL and WP at all treatment time points (p < 0.05). The protein synthesis levels with 4 hr treatments with WP and WP + CRE were greater compared to the CTL (p = 0.036 and p < 0.001, respectively), and 24 h levels were greater with WP versus other treatments (p < 0.05). p-p70S6K (Ser389) and p-rpS6 (Ser235/236) were greater with WP at 1 h compared to all other treatments (p < 0.05). No effects across time points were observed for p-mTOR (Ser2448), p-4E-BP1 (Thr37/46), or p-AMPKα (Thr172). Conclusions: WP increases protein synthesis and anabolic signaling with no additive effect from CRE. However, given that myotubes were not stressed nor stimulated to contract, such models are needed with the current treatment schematic to examine potential interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Human Physiology—3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-7
Back to TopTop