Equine Assisted Services Versus Horse Simulator Activity For Functional Ability In Parkinson's Disease,
2026
southwestern university
Equine Assisted Services Versus Horse Simulator Activity For Functional Ability In Parkinson's Disease, Ryen Browning, Lauren Crabb, Vanessa Mikan
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder associated with impairments in balance, mobility, and postural control, leading to increased fall risk and reduced functional independence. Rhythmic, movement-based interventions benefit motor function in PD. Horse simulator devices, such as the Miracolt, replicate the multidimensional pelvic motion of horseback riding and may provide a safe and accessible therapeutic option. PURPOSE: To examine the effects of a short-term Miracolt horse simulator intervention on balance and functional mobility in individuals with PD. METHODS: Individuals with a clinical diagnosis of PD were recruited from community-based organizations. Participants completed three consecutive 20-minute sessions using the …
Compensatory Reserve Measurement: A Tool To Assess Skeletal Muscle Fatigue,
2026
Texas State University - San Marcos
Compensatory Reserve Measurement: A Tool To Assess Skeletal Muscle Fatigue, Claudette Joe, Antoine Ferguson, Khizra Khan, Barsha Khadka, Victor Convertino Ph.D., Joni A. Mettler Ph.D.
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Compensatory reserve measurement (CRM) is a metric of all physiological mechanisms that sustain adequate oxygen perfusion to working muscles. We hypothesized that CRM would track muscular fatigue. PURPOSE: To assess patterns of CRM and muscular torque output during repeated maximal effort fatiguing muscular contractions and during recovery and to examine the relationship between CRM and torque output. METHODS: Twenty-nine healthy physically active participants (age: 21.9 ± 0.4 yr) performed a muscular fatigue task consisting of 4 sets (S) x 20 repetitions (R) of maximal isometric knee extension contractions on an isokinetic dynamometer. Each contraction was held 10s with a …
Delay In Increased Muscle Cross Sectional Area After Muscle Damage While Dehydrated,
2026
Texas Tech University
Delay In Increased Muscle Cross Sectional Area After Muscle Damage While Dehydrated, Sarah Walper, Casey Appell, Trinity Domonkos, Karina Olvera, Seth Bernardino, Jalyn Dunlap, Larry Munger, Hui-Ying Luk
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
When muscles are damaged, the tears in the muscle fibers triggers an immune response and muscles experience inflammation. Inflammation increases WBC in the muscles to repair the micro tears. Muscle inflammation can be assessed by measuring the cross-sectional area (CSA) via ultrasound images. PURPOSE: To examine the effect of hydration status during recovery on muscle swelling after muscle damaging exercise. METHODS: Six recreationally active men (19 ± 1yr, 169.8 ± 8.3cm, 79.5 ± 11.7kg, Lean mass 58.6 ± 13.0kg, %body fat 28.3 ± 6.5%) completed two bouts of an identical muscle damaging exercise (DAM-EX) under a hydrated state and underwent …
Exercise Training Attenuates Cd8 T Cell Exhaustion, But Not Glucose Intolerance, Following Weight Cycling,
2026
University of Houston
Exercise Training Attenuates Cd8 T Cell Exhaustion, But Not Glucose Intolerance, Following Weight Cycling, Okechukwu K. Oforka, Emily C. Lavoy, Heather L. Caslin
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Obesity increases the risk of glucose intolerance and CD8 T cell exhaustion, which indicates an impaired immune function. While weight loss mitigates these risks, most individuals regain weight (weight cycling), which worsens both conditions. Exercise training protects against glucose intolerance and attenuates T cell exhaustion, but its protective role during weight cycling remains unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether exercise training can prevent glucose intolerance and attenuate CD8 T cell exhaustion following weight cycling in mice. METHODS: Forty-eight C57Bl/6 mice were used for the study. Lean and obese groups were elicited using diet. …
Differences In Sport Performance Anxiety Between Male And Female Competitive Bodybuilders,
2026
University of North Texas
Differences In Sport Performance Anxiety Between Male And Female Competitive Bodybuilders, Christian O. Quintero, Samantha S. Dardaman, Stephen E. Rowden, Rafael E. Cachutt, Scott B. Martin
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
In the sport of bodybuilding, high pressures for perfect performances cultivate extreme levels of restriction and discipline in the domains of eating behaviors, physical training, and aesthetic presentation. These pressures potentially put competitive bodybuilders at risk for anxiety. However, research regarding performance anxiety remains limited in bodybuilding literature. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to examine the differences in sport performance anxiety between male and female bodybuilders. METHODS: Competitive bodybuilders (N = 283; 106 females, 176 males) between the ages of 19 and 68 years old (M = 34.75, SD = 9.83) were recruited to …
Gender And Geographic Differences In Grip Strength And Static Balance Among Special Olympics Athletes,
2026
Texas Christian University
Gender And Geographic Differences In Grip Strength And Static Balance Among Special Olympics Athletes, Madeline Gose, Phil Esposito
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities often experience deficits in muscular strength and balance, which can impact functional independence, injury risk, and sport participation. Grip strength and balance are core components of the Special Olympics FUNfitness screening program and serve as practical indicators of overall functional health. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine gender (male/female) and geographic region (Africa, Asia/Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, South America) based differences in grip strength and balance performance among Special Olympics Athletes. METHODS: A retrospective secondary data analysis was conducted using FUNfitness data collected between 2019-2024. Eyes-open balance performance and …
Speg Activation To Regulate Sarcoplasmic Reticulum In Muscle Disease,
2026
Rice University
Speg Activation To Regulate Sarcoplasmic Reticulum In Muscle Disease, Lauren Nguyen, Sara Kondamadugula, Ting Chang, Susan Hamilton
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ leak contributes to many muscle diseases, including Duchenne Muscle Dystrophy (DMD) and Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) with enhanced sensitivity to heat stroke. Recently, we demonstrated that the striated muscle preferentially expressed protein kinase, SPEG, decreases SR Ca2+ leak by phosphorylating Ser2902 on the Ca2+ release channel (also known as the ryanodine receptor 1, RYR1). While SPEG is activated in response to increased leak, the mechanisms of this activation are unknown. In addition, this compensatory mechanism is overwhelmed in the disease states associated with excessive Ca2+ leak. Increasing SPEG activation could potentially be beneficial …
The Role Of Mkp-5 In Mitochondrial Protection Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity,
2026
University of Texas at El Paso
The Role Of Mkp-5 In Mitochondrial Protection Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity, Dziedzorm Wormenor, Kisuk Min
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a highly effective chemotherapeutic drug used to treat various cancers. Unfortunately, the clinical application of DOX is limited by its cardiotoxic effects, which can result in heart failure in cancer patients. PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate whether MAP kinase phosphatase-5 (MKP-5) deficiency promotes mitochondrial protection against doxorubicin-Induced cardiotoxicity (DIC). METHODS: To determine the role of MKP-5 in DIC, DOX was administered intraperitoneally to wild-type (Mkp-5+/+) and MKP-5-deficient (Mkp-5-/-) mice. Following DOX administration, the survival rate was assessed, and transcription factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis in cardiac muscle were analysed through qRT-PCR or immunoblotting. RESULTS …
Surviving The Cure: Modeling The Long-Term Consequences Of Chemotherapy,
2026
Baylor University
Surviving The Cure: Modeling The Long-Term Consequences Of Chemotherapy, Rachel R. Chiella, Jaden Wells, Sajedeh B. Tabrizi, Savannah V. Rauschendorfer, Cory Dungan, Michael P. Wiggs
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Due to advances in treatment protocols, survival rates for childhood cancers have improved significantly over the past several decades, with five-year survival now reaching 85%. However, survivorship often comes at a cost, as exposure to intensive chemotherapy impairs skeletal muscle health, reducing quality of life and increasing the risk of early mortality. The CHOP regimen, comprising cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone, is a backbone combination used in the treatment of childhood non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Previous data from our lab demonstrates that CHOP causes acute and reductions in growth and muscle size in juvenile mice, yet data on long-term outcomes remain limited. …
Age And Cognitive Load Alter Joint Work Distribution And Postural Stability During Single Limb Support,
2026
University of Texas at Tyler
Age And Cognitive Load Alter Joint Work Distribution And Postural Stability During Single Limb Support, Emery E. Nuner, Telicia Appleton, Ibrahim Burghul
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Age‑related declines in neuromuscular control increase fall risk during single‑limb stance, especially under cognitive load. Altered joint‑work distribution and reduced coordination precision may contribute to this instability, yet dual‑task effects on these mechanisms remain unclear. PURPOSE: To examine age‑related differences in joint eccentric work, inter‑joint coordination (FWHM), and postural stability during single‑limb support under normal and cognitive dual‑task conditions. METHODS: Eight adults (Young: n=4, 22 ± 2 y; Older: n=4, 73 ± 5 y) performed ~3 s of single‑limb support on a force plate following a crossover step under (1) Normal and (2) Cognitive conditions. Under the Cognitive condition, participants …
Effects Of Nasal Breathing Exercise On Systemic And Cellular Inflammatory Biomarkers,
2026
Baylor University
Effects Of Nasal Breathing Exercise On Systemic And Cellular Inflammatory Biomarkers, Tesleem Imran, Minh Quan Le, Brady Johnson, Jose M. Moris, Yunsuk Koh
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Effective inflammatory control is required to maintain proper immune function and health. While nasal breathing (NB) is recognized for its respiratory and cognitive benefits, its influence on immune regulation remains unclear. PURPOSE: The current study examined the effects of acute and chronic NB exercise on pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). METHODS: Twenty-two sedentary men (age=21.55±2.58 years, height=180.98±7.89 cm, and weight=86.81±14.33 kg) were randomly assigned to either the NB (N=11) or combined breathing group (CB, N=11). Participants performed aerobic exercise on a recumbent cycle at a moderate intensity (70% VO2max) for 4 …
Calculation Of A Conversion Factor To Estimate Anaerobic Energy In Trained Men And Women Runners,
2026
University of North Texas, Denton
Calculation Of A Conversion Factor To Estimate Anaerobic Energy In Trained Men And Women Runners, Austin B. Shaw, Ethan J. Hein, Brady C. Mclain, Jacob L. Mcnary, Sarah E. Deemer, Lydia K. Caldwell, David W. Hill
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Accurate quantification of anaerobic energy contribution is crucial for sport performance and bioenergetics research. A recently popularized method estimates anaerobic contribution and capacity from a single exercise test by multiplying post-exercise blood lactate by an oxygen equivalent (O2–Eq–Lac; historically 2.7–3.3 mL·kg–1·mM–1). Foundational studies have empirically derived this conversion factor across modalities: two have reported 3.0–3.3 mL·kg–1·mM–1 for running, two have obtained 2.7 mL·kg–1·mM–1 for swimming, and one has determined 3.0 mL·kg–1·mM–1 for cycling. These studies are based on physiological assumptions (e.g., the caloric equivalent …
Intracranial Hemodynamic Response After 4 Weeks Of Aerobic Training Using Nasal Breathing,
2026
Texas A&M International University
Intracranial Hemodynamic Response After 4 Weeks Of Aerobic Training Using Nasal Breathing, Marcela Guadiana, Cristina Grana Gedrange, Mia I. Perez, Yunsuk Koh, Jose M. Moris
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
The transient hypercapnic state prompted by nasal-only breathing (NB) during exercise is a compelling stimulus for enhancing cerebral blood flow (CBF). However, whether NB can serve as a chronic training modality that elicits lasting, beneficial cerebrovascular adaptations remains unclear. PURPOSE: This study assessed whether a 4-week aerobic training program incorporating NB would yield superior cerebrovascular hemodynamics during a graded exercise test (GXT) compared with training under standard, unrestricted combined breathing (CB). METHODS: Twenty-two healthy males were randomly allocated to either an NB or CB training group, performing GXTs pre- (V1) and post-intervention (V2). The training protocol constituted four weeks of …
The Metabolic Cost Of Three Different Modes Of Interval Exercise Versus Continuous Running,
2026
Stephen F Austin State University
The Metabolic Cost Of Three Different Modes Of Interval Exercise Versus Continuous Running, Kyle R. Brelsford, Enrrique Reyes, Austin Dunn, James Rowe
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Our lab has previously reported that Tabata performed with body calisthenics expends less energy when performed at the same intensity and duration as interval running and continuous running and that EPOC and energy expenditure (EE) during recovery were similar between these 3 exercises. How EE and EPOC would respond to interval resistance exercise remains unclear. PURPOSE: Compare the metabolic response to 4 exercise bouts when performed at a self-selected pace. METHODS: Active men (n=6) and women (n=4) performed 4 separate exercise bouts in a counterbalanced order: total body Tabata (TBT), treadmill running Tabata (TRT), continuous running (CONT) and interval resistance …
Caloric Misperception Of Unhealthy Foods As An Independent Determinant Of Visceral Adiposity,
2026
Texas A&M International University
Caloric Misperception Of Unhealthy Foods As An Independent Determinant Of Visceral Adiposity, Grecia V. Morales, Cristina Grana Gedrange, Camila Guadiana, Marcela Guadiana, Samantha Martinez, Jose M. Moris
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Understanding the interplay between physiological markers and cognitive-behavioral traits is essential to identifying pathological contributors to adiposity. Poor health literacy, specifically the inability to gauge energy intake, is linked to maladaptive dietary behaviors, potentially exacerbating the accumulation of body fat percentage (BF%) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). PURPOSE: To examine the extent to which body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), and the perceived inaccuracy of food caloric content predict BF% and VAT in young women. METHODS: Nineteen young women (20.1 ± 0.9 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. Body composition (BF%, VAT) was assessed via Bioelectrical Impedance …
Sex Differences In Carbohydrate Quality: Assessing The Carbohydrate-To-Fiber Ratio In Middle-Aged Hispanic Adults,
2026
Texas A&M International University
Sex Differences In Carbohydrate Quality: Assessing The Carbohydrate-To-Fiber Ratio In Middle-Aged Hispanic Adults, Cristina Graña Gedrange, Mia I. Perez, Marcela Guadiana, Nicole Cantu, Jose M. Moris
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Hispanic adults in the United States face disproportionate rates of cardiometabolic disease, yet sex-specific disparities in diet quality remain understudied. PURPOSE: To determine diet quality among middle-aged Hispanic adults, assessing carbohydrate quality based on the carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio (CFR) and protein density as indicators of metabolic risk. METHODS: A total of 30 males and 49 females between 40 to 70 years old participated in a cross-sectional analysis of body composition and dietary behavior. Participants underwent girth measurements, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, and completed a paper-based 3-day dietary recall log. Dietary data were manually entered by researchers using an …
Investigating The Effectiveness And Benefits Of A 3d Printed Ladder For Rat Resistance Training Compared To A Previously Published Model,
2026
Southwestern University
Investigating The Effectiveness And Benefits Of A 3d Printed Ladder For Rat Resistance Training Compared To A Previously Published Model, Raghav D. Sharma
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
PURPOSE: To document and assess the training of rats using a new design and 3D printed ladder. The results were compared to the same rats climbing a ladder which is similar to ladders used in the majority of previous research. The rungs of the previous ladder were in the shape of a cylinder whereas the new model had rectangular flat steps. Rats were expected to exhibit different biomechanics while climbing the two different ladder models. In the new model we expected rats to use plant and push climbing (PPC) where rats put their entire foot on the step and push …
Accelerated Skeletal And Cardiometabolic Decline In Hispanic Women Versus Stability In Men During Mid-Life,
2026
Texas A&M International University
Accelerated Skeletal And Cardiometabolic Decline In Hispanic Women Versus Stability In Men During Mid-Life, Camila Guadiana, Grecia V. Morales, Marianna Gamboa, Jose M. Moris
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Mid-life represents a critical physiological juncture where skeletal and metabolic health often diverge. While Hispanic adults are known to face elevated risks for both osteoporosis and cardiometabolic disease, the specific temporal synchronization of these declines, particularly the concurrent acceleration of bone loss and visceral adiposity, remains understudied in this population. PURPOSE: To examine sex-specific differences in body composition, bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm²), and blood pressure across three mid-life decades (40s, 50s, 60s) in Hispanic adults. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 100 Hispanic adults (36 men and 64 women) from Laredo, TX, stratified into age groups 40-49, 50-59, …
The Effects Of Physical Activity On Bone Health In Women As They Age,
2026
Texas Christian University
The Effects Of Physical Activity On Bone Health In Women As They Age, Shannon A. Matthews, Deborah Rhea, Phil Esposito, Ryan Porter
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Osteoporosis affects one in three women over 50, often resulting in fractures that impair mobility and quality of life. Although bone mass and density decline with age, achieving higher peak values before menopause may reduce this risk. Physical activity (PA) is a modifiable factor in skeletal integrity, yet its impact across life stages remains underexplored. Since 80–90% of peak bone mass is accrued by age 16, PA during adolescence and early adulthood is critical. Few studies have examined how specific PA patterns during these periods relate to adult bone health in pre‑menopausal women. PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between early‑life …
Sex Differences In Cognitive Stability: Response Variability Following Acute High-Intensity Functional Training,
2026
Texas A&M University Central Texas
Sex Differences In Cognitive Stability: Response Variability Following Acute High-Intensity Functional Training, Mason Northam, Yu Lun Tai, Jeremy Abshire, Kelvin Wu, Gary Guerra
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings
Acute exercise has been shown to enhance cognitive function such as inhibitory control, with aerobic and resistance exercises yielding significant benefits. High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT), such as CrossFit®, combines high-intensity, multi-joint movements and has shown promise in improving working memory. However, its acute effects on inhibitory control, particularly regarding potential sex differences, remain unclear. PURPOSE: This study investigated the acute effects of a single CrossFit®-based HIFT session on inhibitory control in healthy young adults and examined potential sex differences in response execution. METHODS: Eighteen healthy college students (8 females, 10 males) completed two counterbalanced sessions: (1) HIFT exercise consisting of …
