APS Publications Podcast

In this podcast, coauthors Aleah Brokemond, Fapianey Alexandre, and Sewedo Ajisegiri discuss their recently published review, ‘Short-Chain Fatty Acids: Microbial Metabolites Driving Gut-Eye Axis Signaling’. The review stems from a desire to better understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate retinal health and disease, with a focus on whether and how short chain fatty acids could serve as messengers between the gastrointestinal tract and the eye. The review was designed to integrate current evidence into a translational framework informing therapeutic strategies and future clinical applications. Short-Chain Fatty Acids: Microbial Metabolites Driving Gut-Eye Axis Signaling Aleah J. Brokemond, Ronny Amamoo, Fapianey J. Alexandre, Sewedo B. Ajisegiri, Menaka C. Thounaojam, Pamela M. Martin, Ravirajsinh N. Jadeja Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:5, e70251 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70251

In this podcast, Akram Nader SalahEldeen Mustafa discusses the recently published review, ‘Guardians at the Interface: Microbiota, Intestinal Barriers, and the Gut–Liver Axis in Liver Health and Disease’. The article examines the gut-liver axis as a dynamic, bidirectional system in which alterations in the gut microbiota can impair intestinal barrier function, increase microbial translocation, and expose the liver to inflammatory signals that contribute to liver disease. The authors summarize current evidence linking gut dysbiosis, increased intestinal permeability, and microbial products to liver injury, while highlighting that many of the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Guardians at the Interface: Microbiota, Intestinal Barriers, and the Gut–Liver Axis in Liver Health and Disease Reda M. Mansour, Sherif S. Abdel Mageed, Akram N. Salah, Gharieb S. El-Sayyad, Wesam A. Abduljabbar, Walaa A. El-Dakroury, Ahmed E. Elesawy, Nourhan H. Elshami, Nehal I. Rizk, Osama A. Mohammed, Marwa Yousry…

In this podcast, coauthors Alice E. Knapton and Andrew Murray discuss their recently published article, ‘Amyloid-Forming Amylin Secreted by the Pancreas Promotes Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Activation and Mitochondrial Alterations in Liver and Heart During Type 2 Diabetes Pathogenesis’. The article describes a collaborative study examining how amyloid-forming human amylin, a hormone that is hypersecreted in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, may affect organs beyond the pancreas. Using the HIP rat model, the researchers investigated links between amylin aggregation, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling, and mitochondrial metabolism in the liver and heart, identifying tissue-specific changes associated with sustained hypoxic stress. Together, the findings suggest that dysregulated amylin may be an underrecognized contributor to systemic diabetes-related pathology. Amyloid-Forming Amylin Secreted by the Pancreas Promotes Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Activation and Mitochondrial Alterations in Liver and Heart…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Michael Scullin discusses their recently published article, “Sleep and circadian predictors of academic performance and retention in STEM pathways: a longitudinal study in university freshmen” Many believe that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students must sacrifice their sleep to achieve academic success. In striking contrast, the current research demonstrates that better sleep health in freshmen STEM majors predicted better academic success, even after accounting for mental health, fluid intelligence, and prior academic performance. The current work was the first to document that sleep health predicted better persistence in a STEM track across 2 yr. Fitzsimmons CL, Carter JR, Scullin MK. Sleep and circadian predictors of academic performance and retention in STEM pathways: a longitudinal study in university freshmen. Adv Physiol Educ. 2026 Mar 2;50(2):394-401. doi: 10.1152/advan.00313.2025.…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Prof. David Lewis discusses his recently published article, “Reducing, and ultimately replacing, the involvement of animals in education: legislative, ethical, and societal drivers for change” Learners are increasingly objecting to participating in educational activities that involve animals. There is a substantial drive from regulators and funders globally to replace the involvement of animals in research. There is no going back. Educators, educational leaderships, physiological societies, and others need to embrace change, working collaboratively to reimagine nonanimal technologies and new approach methodologies used in research to create educationally robust, humane alternatives to the current educational activities that involve animals. Lewis DI. Reducing, and ultimately replacing, the involvement of animals in education: legislative, ethical, and societal drivers for change. Adv Physiol Educ. 2026 Feb…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Akshata Naik and coauthors discuss their recently published article, “Leveraging H5P plug-in technology to increase interactivity within an asynchronously delivered physiology lecture in the first year of medical school” As educators, are you looking to boost engagement in your asynchronous lectures? This paper provides a practical guide for implementing interactive activities using the H5P plug-in, a virtual teaching technology to increase student engagement and learner feedback. The authors detail their strategies to create a targeted “drag-and-drop” exercise and a “branching scenario” to complement their asynchronous lecture recording. Additionally, they also provide their rationale behind choosing these two activities as part of their lecture. Bortis B, Bailey-Crow C, Naik AR. Leveraging H5P plug-in technology to increase interactivity within an asynchronously delivered physiology lecture in the first year of…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Dr. Jeffrey Grim and coauthors discuss their recently published article, “Faculty can use collaborative group exams to facilitate peer interactions that enhance learning opportunities and increase student well-being in their classrooms” This study explores collaborative group exams (CGEs) in undergraduate biology courses as a means of linking collaborative learning pedagogies and individual assessments. We show that CGEs provide opportunities for student learning and may boost classroom culture by fostering peer interaction while not inflating course grades. Therefore, we suggest that CGEs are a simple and scalable pedagogical strategy that all faculty should consider adopting. Grim JM, Yang S, Roux-Osovitz M, Arzoumanian J, Cooper SK. Faculty can use collaborative group exams to facilitate peer interactions that enhance learning opportunities and increase student well-being in their classrooms. Adv Physiol Educ.…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Dr. Champagne and coauthors discuss their recently published article, “Mutual gains: nonpresenting undergraduate attendance at regional scientific meetings benefits students and scientific societies.” Can undergraduate students benefit from attending scientific meetings even when they're not presenting research? This study found that participation in a regional physiology meeting increased students' confidence, sense of belonging in science, interest in research careers, and enthusiasm for future scientific engagement. The benefits extended beyond the students, with attendees reporting that undergraduate participation enhanced the overall meeting environment. Champagne AM, Dunning SE, Mahmoud MH, Fisher ET, Shah SN, Walsh HE. Mutual gains: nonpresenting undergraduate attendance at regional scientific meetings benefits students and scientific societies. Adv Physiol Educ. 2026 Feb 9;50(2):352-360. doi:…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Dr. Imaan Benmerzaouga and Dr. Elizabeth Oviawe discuss their article, “Incorporation of Virtual Reality into Medical Physiology.” The authors describe how they used virtual reality to create an interactive learning session on the autonomic nervous system. Their work highlights the potential of virtual reality to enhance medical education by immersing students in foundational physiology concepts. Benmerzouga I, Oviawe E. Incorporation of virtual reality into medical physiology. Adv Physiol Educ. 2026 Jan 9;50(1):280-283. doi: 10.1152/advan.00125.2024. https://doi.org/10.1152/advan.00125.2024

In this podcast, author Maïté Verstraeten discusses the recently published review, ‘Preclinical Insights Into the Pathophysiology of Hepatopulmonary Syndrome’. The article examines the current preclinical understanding of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS), a serious pulmonary complication of liver disease characterized by abnormal pulmonary vascular remodeling, impaired gas exchange, and hypoxemia for which liver transplantation remains the only effective treatment. Drawing largely from findings in the common bile duct ligation rodent model, it highlights how complex liver–lung–gut interactions drive vasodilatation, angiogenesis, and alveolar dysfunction through inflammatory and angiogenic signaling pathways, while underscoring the significant gaps in knowledge that continue to limit therapeutic development. Preclinical Insights Into the Pathophysiology of Hepatopulmonary Syndrome Maïté Verstraeten, Wouter Busselot, Sander Lefere, Hans Van Vlierberghe, Sarah Raevens Comprehensive Physiology 2025 16:4, e70223…

In this episode, Prof. Wehrwein and coauthors discuss their recently published article, “Health in Translation: A Workshop Model for Health Literacy and Lay Science Communication.” They describe a 60-minute interactive workshop that helps undergraduate students translate scientific information into clear, accessible language for the public. The discussion highlights the importance of health literacy, effective science communication, and practical strategies for preparing future health professionals to engage diverse audiences. Musso SA, Elmer SJ, Wehrwein EA. Health in translation: a workshop model for health literacy and lay science communication. Adv Physiol Educ. 2026 Feb 16;50(2):365-369. doi: 10.1152/advan.00324.2025.

In this podcast, author Lisha Zhang discusses the recently published article, ‘Gut Barnesiella intestinihominis Exacerbates Post-Myocardial Infarction Injury via Succinate-Driven MAPK3 Succinylation/Phosphorylation Cascade in γδ T Cells and Downstream IL-17A–NLRP3 Axis’. The article describes how authors used in silico, in vivo, and in vitro experiments to link bacteria Barnesiella intestinihominis to myocardial injury and inflammatory responses following myocardial infarction. Gut Barnesiella intestinihominis Exacerbates Post-Myocardial Infarction Injury via Succinate-Driven MAPK3 Succinylation/Phosphorylation Cascade in γδ T Cells and Downstream IL-17A–NLRP3 Axis Lisha Zhang, Chao Chu, Ping Jin, Yan Zhang, Yanru He, Fuxue Deng, Jie Deng Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:4, e70221 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70221

Description: In this podcast, coauthors Vinicio de Jesus Perez and Stuti Agarwal discuss their recently published review, ‘Lung Pericytes: Molecular Mechanisms, Signaling Pathways, and Roles in Pulmonary Diseases’. The article highlights the molecular mechanisms governing lung pericyte function, and the varied roles of pericytes in pulmonary diseases, including acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, lung cancer, and lung infections. Lung Pericytes: Molecular Mechanisms, Signaling Pathways, and Roles in Pulmonary Diseases Anuradha Bankar, Stuti Agarwal, Vinicio A. de Jesus Perez Comprehensive Physiology 2026, 16:4, e70205 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70205

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Prof. Wehrwein discusses their recently published article, “Who Will Teach Physiology? The Growing Shortage of Physiology Generalists.” As systems-level physiology training declines and specialization increases, institutions face a growing shortage of qualified physiology educators. Listen as Prof. Wehrwein examines the causes of this workforce gap and calls for renewed efforts to strengthen integrative physiology education and support the next generation of health professions training. Who will teach physiology? The growing shortage of physiology generalists Erica A. Wehrwein Advances in Physiology Education 2026 50:2, 361-362 10.1152/advan.00321.2025

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors discuss their recently published article, "Sources of Stress and Coping Strategies Employed by Undergraduate Students Over a Semester: Motivations and Implications for Academic Success." How do first-year university students cope with the pressures of academic life? Drawing on research with undergraduate students, this conversation explores the sources of stress students face, how their coping strategies evolve throughout a semester, and the motivations behind their choices. The authors discuss why a diverse range of coping approaches—from time management and study skills to exercise, meditation, and work–life balance—can support both academic success and student well-being. Tune in for practical insights into helping students thrive inside and outside the classroom. Sources of stress and coping strategies employed by undergraduate students over a semester: motivations and implications for academic success…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Prof. Laura Machín-Galarza discusses her recently published article, “Making Immunology Memorable: Resilience-Inspired Pitch Stories to Launch Lectures.” Learn how creative, resilience-based storytelling can make complex immunology concepts more engaging, memorable, and effective for students. Making immunology memorable: resilience-inspired pitch stories to launch lectures Laura Machin-Galarza Advances in Physiology Education 2026 50:2, 338-340 10.1152/advan.00274.2025

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, Dr. Emmanuel Dugrenot discusses his group’s Research Article, “Changes in liver and lung antioxidant and mitochondrial biogenesis gene expression in decompression sickness resistant rats.” This study analyzed genes related to antioxidant defense and mitochondrial biogenesis in the lungs and liver of rats bred for resistance to decompression sickness (DCS). In resistant rats, no change was observed in lung gene expression, whereas both gene groups were downregulated in the liver (P < 0.0083, Bonferroni correction), except Pgc1α. These findings, along with previous ones, suggest that hepatic mitochondrial function and reduced reactive oxygen species production may contribute to DCS resistance. Dugrenot E, Orsat J, Gouin E, Guerrero F, Guernec A. Changes in liver and lung antioxidant and mitochondrial biogenesis gene expression in decompression sickness resistant rats. Physiol Genomics. 2026 Jun 1;58(6):243-251. doi: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00218.2025. Epub 2026…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors Derek Bass, Ayush Gupta, and Daniela Terson de Paleville explore their innovative study using guided virtual reality to bring complex anatomy to life. From engaging, immersive learning to real-world IT hurdles, they share what works—and what's next. Implementing a guided VR for neuroanatomy in neurology residency: acceptability and practical considerations Derek Bass, Ayush Gupta, Laura Weingartner, and Daniela Terson de Paleville Advances in Physiology Education 2026 50:1, 314-322 10.1152/advan.00019.2025

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors Michael Leung and Dasuni Alwis discuss their recently published article, “Enhancing Engagement and Confidence in Male Reproductive Physiology Through an Escape Room Activity.” They explore an innovative response to declining classroom engagement in higher education, highlighting a flipped learning escape room workshop developed at Monash University. Centered on diagnosing the infertility of a fictional medieval king, the activity demonstrates how immersive, gamified approaches can drive high engagement and significantly improve student confidence across all levels of preparedness. Enhancing engagement and confidence in male reproductive physiology through an escape room activity Michael C. M. Leung, Claire Huang, Joanne Caldwell Odgers, Dasuni Alwis, and Craig A. Harrison Advances in Physiology Education 2026 50:2, 384-391 10.1152/advan.00166.2025

In this podcast, coauthors Mingdao Mu, Yunuo Jiang, Guo Han, and Zixu Zhang discuss their recently published review, ‘Glucagon-Like Peptide-2 Receptor: A Master Integrator of Gut-Brain-Liver Communication in Metabolic and Cognitive Health'. The review highlights GLP-2R as a systematic hub for metabolic and cognitive health, and a critical player in gut-brain-liver communication. Authors also discuss pharmacological innovations and highlight gaps in the current knowledge. Glucagon-Like Peptide-2 Receptor: A Master Integrator of Gut-Brain-Liver Communication in Metabolic and Cognitive Health Yunuo Jiang, Guo Han, Zixu Zhang, Shengru Hu, Mingdao Mu Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:2, e70144 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70144

In this podcast, author Kuihua Zhan discusses the recently published article, ‘Vascularization Is Driven by Sprouting and Subsequent Splitting: Mechanisms of Physiological Angiogenesis in a Porous Biomaterial Scaffold and Intervention Insights’. The article describes engineering interventions to support the physiological vascularization of large-scale tissue scaffolds. Vascularization Is Driven by Sprouting and Subsequent Splitting: Mechanisms of Physiological Angiogenesis in a Porous Biomaterial Scaffold and Intervention Insights Kuihua Zhan, Lun Bai Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:3, e70170 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70170

In this AI generated episode of The APS Publications Podcast featuring Function, we will dive into exciting new research that is shaping our understanding of how the body works at its most fundamental level. We spotlight the article “Short-term time-restricted feeding improves metabolic rhythms and liver mitochondrial bioenergetic function in high-fat diet-fed mice,” by Valcin et al. published recently in Function. Across the U.S. and the world, more people are developing fatty liver disease—now often called metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease. About one in three adults are affected. What causes it? Often, long-term high-fat diets and disrupted metabolism. Inside the liver, tiny structures called mitochondria—the cell’s power plants—stop working efficiently. When that happens, the liver struggles to burn fat, energy levels drop, inflammation rises, and damage spreads to other organs. But here’s the surprising part: It’s not just what we eat that hurts these mitochondria. It’s when we…

In this podcast, author Arun Jose discusses the recently published article, ‘Lactobacillus Is Associated With Disease in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Prospective Cohort Study.' The prospective cohort study linked the gut microbiome, gut-derived metabolites, and disease severity in patents with pulmonary arterial hypertension undergoing right heart catheterization. Authors found that the presence of Lactobacillus was associated with less severe disease. Lactobacillus Is Associated With Disease in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Prospective Cohort Study Arun Jose, Senu Apewokin, Nicholas J. Ollberding, Qing Duan, Jennifer Trannguyen, Sasha Z. Prisco, Thenappan Thenappan, Anna R. Hemnes, Jean M. Elwing Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:3, e70161 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70161

In this podcast, coauthors Gaurab Bhaduri and Anchin Kalia discuss their recently published review, ‘The Mitochondrial–Autophagy Axis in MASLD: Mechanisms, Crosstalk, and Therapeutic Targets’. The review integrates contemporary evidence regarding mitochondrial dysfunction and autophagic regulation in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The Mitochondrial–Autophagy Axis in MASLD: Mechanisms, Crosstalk, and Therapeutic TargetsGaurab Bhaduri, Anchin Kalia, Banshi Saboo, Sanjay BandyopadhyayComprehensive Physiology 2026 16:3, e70155 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70155

In this podcast, author Daniela Negrini discusses the recently published review, ‘The Thoracic Lymphatic Vasculature: Inter-Organ Strategies to Achieve an Optimal Tissue Function’. The article highlights the important but often overlooked role of vascular lymphatic system and the contribution of lymphatic vasculature to the control of extracellular fluid volume and composition as it applies to the majority of the body tissues. The Thoracic Lymphatic Vasculature: Inter-Organ Strategies to Achieve an Optimal Tissue Function Daniela Negrini, Eleonora Solari, Cristiana Marcozzi, Andrea Moriondo Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:2, e70143 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70143

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, we highlight the study by Dr. Angela L. Mahaffey (Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, Loyola University Chicago) published in Advances in Physiology Education. This article outlines prelicensure nursing and exercise sciences student perspective examinations of the 2011 Michael-McFarland (M-M 2011) core principles in physiology through an anonymous online survey. Dr. Mahaffey models an updated approach based on qualitative survey responses from first-year nursing students. As a result, Dr. Mahaffey presents a “Top Ten” List of Core Principles of Human Physiology for Undergraduate Health Professions students. Listen to learn more. Angela L. Mahaffey Examining the impact of the core principles of physiology with prelicensure BSN and BSES students: a qualitative analysis Advances in Physiology Education, published March 22, 2023. DOI: 10.1152/advan.00076.2022

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, we feature Dr. Scott Medler (St. Bonaventure University), discussing his article about Dr. Graham Hoyle published recently in Advances in Physiology Education. Hoyle was an important neuroscientist, muscle biologist, and zoologist throughout much of the second half of the twentieth century. He was trained by Bernard Katz at University College London and later worked with C.A.G. Wiersma at Caltech. As a professor at the University of Oregon, Hoyle helped found the Institute of Neuroscience and trained many prominent scientists in the fields of neuromuscular biology and neuroethology. Listen now to learn about this preeminent scientist in early studies of neuromuscular biology. Scott Medler Graham Hoyle (1923–1985): exploring the depths of muscle diversity Advances in Physiology Education, published October 23, 2023. DOI: 10.1152/advan.00098.2023

In this podcast Dr. Giulia Protti and Prof. Matteo Pellegrini of the University of California discuss the recently published manuscript titled “The methylome of buccal epithelial cells is influenced by age, sex, and physiological properties”. The authors have developed a quantitative model to assess how the human methylome is associated with several factors and to identify the genomic loci significantly impacted by each trait. In this research they have reported novel health-related factors driving DNA methylation patterns and new site-specific regulations that further elucidate methylome dynamics. The study contributes to a better understanding of the plasticity of the human methylome and unveils novel physiological traits with a potential role in future medical epigenomic investigations. Article Citation: The methylome of buccal epithelial cells is influenced by age, sex, and physiological properties Giulia Protti, Liudmilla Rubbi, Tarik Gören, Ramazan Sabirli, Serkan Civlan, Özgür Kurt, İbrahim Türkçüer,…

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, we feature Dr. Himel Mondal (All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Deoghar, India), discussing his recently published article by Mondal et al. in Advances in Physiology Education. The study presents the participation of medical students in Twitter poll-based formative assessment in a rural medical college in India. Despite low participation rates, students found social media-based formative assessment highly effective in increasing their attention during class. The work by Mondal and co-authors also reveals student preferences for alternative platforms like Telegram and Instagram. These insights contribute significantly to understanding the impact and relevance of social media-based formative assessment in diverse educational contexts. Listen now to learn more. Himel Mondal, Shaikat Mondal, and Nirupama Ray Student perceptions of Twitter poll-based formative assessment in a rural medical college in India Advances in Physiology Education, published September…

The American Physiological Society celebrates and discusses the theme of Peer Review Week 2023, which is Peer Review and the Future of Publishing. Peer Review Week is an annual global event which shines a spotlight on the role of peer review in scholarly publishing, and brings together individuals, institutions and organizations committed to sharing the central message that good peer review is critical to scholarly communication. In this episode, you'll hear from APS Publications' Editors, along with Colette Bean, APS Chief Publishing Officer, about how APS Publications are at the forefront of the future of peer review.To learn more about publishing with APS, visit https://journals.physiology.org/submitTo find APS resources for peer reviewers, visit https://journals.physiology.org/reviewersTo learn more about Peer Review Week 2023, visit https://peerreviewweek.wordpress.com

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring AJP-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Medicine, author Laura Oller discusses her recent article, "Molecular shifts induced by pseudohypoxia in gray seal blubber: an ex vivo approach." This study explored how blubber regulates responses to chemically induced pseudohypoxia. This study showed a faster, but sustained, increase in molecular markers of hypoxia. It documents downstream molecular responses to those hypoxia-induced changes, revealing important adaptations in mechanisms that induce and sustain the hypoxia response in blubber. Molecular shifts induced by pseudohypoxia in gray seal blubber: an ex vivo approach Laura Oller, Joel Rocha, Holly Clare Armstrong, Simon E. W. Moss, Ailsa J. Hall, and Kimberley Ann Bennett American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology 2026 330:4, R317-R335

In this podcast, Nguyen Duc Huy Hoang discusses his recently published article, ‘Mechanosensory Silence During Cardiac Stress’. He asks the question, "Why does mechanosensory stress in the heart so often remain perceptually silent?" and hopes his group's new conceptual gating framework, Cardiac Mechanoafferent Silencing Model, will shed some light on the topic and support the prioritization of future experimental and translational investigations. Mechanosensory Silence During Cardiac Stress Nguyen Duc Huy Hoang Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:2, e70122 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70122

In this podcast, coauthors Yuan Li and Mingming Liu discuss their recently published article, ‘Functional segregation of pancreatic microcirculation reveals sex-dependent microhemodynamic signatures’. The article used a multi-scale approach to investigate pancreatic microhemodynamics in healthy male and female mice. Authors identified sexual dimorphism in pancreatic microhemodynamics that was restricted to the exocrine compartment, where blood vessels expressed different levels of CD31 and estrogen receptor ERβ. These sex-specific vascular patterns were linked to distinct systemic steroid hormone profiles, leading to fundamentally different mechanisms of blood‑flow regulation in males and females. Overall, the work identified pancreatic microvasculature as a key site where hormonal differences shape sex‑specific organ physiology. Yuan Li, Yingyu Wang, Bing Wang, Qin Ouyang, Weiqi Liu, Xiang Xu, Xu Zhang, Mingming Liu, Ruijuan Xiu Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:2, e70130 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70130

In this podcast, coauthors Yifeng Bu and Imanuel Lerman discuss their recently published review, ‘A Review of Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Disease: Comprehensive Theory and Evidence for Mechanisms of Action’. The review overviews VNS mechanisms and their translational relevance, and thus serves as a foundational resource for advancing the science and clinical deployment of precision neuromodulation and bioelectronic medicine. A Review of Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Disease: Comprehensive Theory and Evidence for Mechanisms of Action Yifeng Bu, Alex Liang, Benjamin U. Hoffman, Dawn M. Schiehser, Oliver Case, Alan Simmons, Ruth Klaming, Andres Gottfried-Blackmore, Ravinder K. Mittal, Christopher Puleo, Hubert Lim, Imanuel Lerman Comprehensive Physiology 2025 16:2, e70109 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70109

In this podcast, coauthors Yujie Xu, Han Wu, Ru Mu, Lu Yang, Yixuan Li, and Xian Ma discuss their recently published review, 'Kisspeptin Neurons as Integrative Hub: Cross-Talk of HPO–HPT–HPA Axes in Perimenopausal Reproductive Health’. The findings highlight the multi-axis pathophysiology of perimenopausal endocrine disorders and suggest therapeutic potential for treatments targeting kisspeptin neurons as part of individualized, multi-axis approaches. Kisspeptin Neurons as Integrative Hub: Cross-Talk of HPO–HPT–HPA Axes in Perimenopausal Reproductive Health Yujie Xu, Han Wu, Ru Mu, Lu Yang, Yixuan Li, Xian Ma Comprehensive Physiology 2026 16:1, e70115 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70115

In this podcast, coauthors Chrysi Keskinidou and Nikolaos S. Lotsio discuss their recently published research article, ‘Disrupting BMP/TGF-β Signaling: Modulation of AQP1 and TGFB1 in Human Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Cells’. The article describes the authors' deep dive into the interactions between AQP1 and TGFB1 in human pulmonary vascular endothelial cells, and and provide a novel perspective on the interactions of the BMP/TGF-β signaling pathway. Disrupting BMP/TGF-β Signaling: Modulation of AQP1 and TGFB1 in Human Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Cells Chrysi Keskinidou, Nikolaos S. Lotsios, Kostas A. Papavassiliou, Athanasios G. Papavassiliou, Ioanna Dimopoulou, Anastasia Kotanidou, David Langleben, Stylianos E. Orfanos, Alice G. Vassiliou Comprehensive Physiology 2025 15:6, e70066 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70066

In this podcast, corresponding author Yuan-Yuan Zhang discusses the recently published review, ‘Insulin as an Accelerator and Brake of Aging: From Molecular Landscape to Clinical Interventions’. Here, Dr. Zhang describes key findings, key takeaways, and key gaps that relate to our understanding of the role of insulin in aging and how it can be leveraged for anti-aging therapies. Listen here to learn why her and her co-authors argue that the secret to healthier aging lies with insulin and in helping it find the perfect rhythm. Shi-Cheng Chen, Xiao-Dong Sun, Yuan-Yuan Zhang Comprehensive Physiology 2025;15(6):e70079 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70079

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors Suzanne Estaphan, David Kramer, and Harry Witchel discuss their recently published article, “Navigating the frontier of AI-assisted student assignments: challenges, skills, and solutions.” This paper presents a framework to effectively design take-home assessments in the generative artificial intelligence (AI) era with four key recommendations to navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by generative AI. From codeveloping AI literacy to fostering human-AI collaboration, the strategies empower educators to promote authentic learning, critical thinking, and ethical AI use. Adaptable to various contexts, these insights help prepare students for an AI-driven future while maintaining academic rigor and integrity. Navigating the frontier of AI-assisted student assignments: challenges, skills, and solutions Suzanne Estaphan, David Kramer, and Harry J. Witchel Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3,…

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring an article from Advances in Physiology Education, authors Declan McLaughlin, Aisling Keane, and Joe Quinn discuss their recently published article, “The chick embryo model as an educational tool to explore the effect of alcohol on cardiovascular development.” This study explores the use of the chick embryo model as a teaching aid to illustrate connections between anatomy and physiology during development. Providing direct observation opportunities, the model allows students to witness organ formation and the impact of teratogens, focusing on cardiovascular abnormalities associated with fetal alcohol syndrome. The paper outlines practical methodologies to assess developmental outcomes. Its adaptability, affordability, and ability to spark discussions make the model a valuable resource for diverse educational environments. The chick embryo model as an educational tool to explore the effect of alcohol on cardiovascular development Declan McLaughlin,…

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors Madyson Hintz and Aisya Ahmad Zamri discuss their recent article, “Associations between heart size and anthropometric and cardiovascular indicators: an undergraduate physiology teaching laboratory.” They share how a hands-on undergraduate lab lets students observe heart measurements with ultrasound, collect body and cardiovascular data, and explore how factors like age, sex, body size, and hand palm diameter relate to heart health. Associations between heart size and anthropometric and cardiovascular indicators: an undergraduate physiology teaching laboratory Madyson O. Hintz, Aisya S. Ahmad Zamri, Elizabeth W. Erickson, Frosina Barlev, Sean Coffey, and Regis R. Lamberts Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:2, 508-516

In this podcast, Dr. Rashmi Chandel discusses the recently published article, "Jigsaw technique: Will it help Gen Z nursing students?" This study examines the effectiveness of the jigsaw technique (JST) as a student-centered learning strategy for engaging Generation Z undergraduate nursing students. Recognizing Gen Z learners’ distinct cognitive styles and preferences, the research compares JST with conventional lectures across four physiology modules using a crossover design. Results showed significantly higher pretest, posttest, and retention scores with JST in most modules, along with strong positive student feedback regarding engagement, understanding, communication, and peer interaction. Overall, the findings suggest that integrating JST into nursing education can enhance learning outcomes while fostering essential interpersonal and professional skills in future nurses. Jigsaw technique: will it help Gen Z nursing students? Rashmi Chandel, Anumeha Bhagat, Anita S. Malhotra, Ravi Rohilla, Gurjit Kaur,…

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, Stephen Fitzjohn and Frances MacMillan discuss their recently published article, “Active learning to improve numeracy skills and confidence using quizzes in first-year biomedical science undergraduates.” They share how thoughtfully designed, gamified quizzes in Blackboard helped students practice numeracy skills, build confidence, and achieve significant improvement. The conversation highlights a practical and adaptable teaching approach that can be easily applied to subjects beyond numeracy, offering valuable insights for educators looking to enhance student learning and confidence. Active learning to improve numeracy skills and confidence using quizzes in first-year biomedical science undergraduates Stephen M. Fitzjohn, Alice M. Semenenko, and Frances M. MacMillan Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3, 680-685

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, James Davis discusses their recently published article, “From anonymity to engagement: the benefits of early-semester student-instructor meetings.” This study shows that brief, early-semester student-instructor meetings foster stronger connections, increase student participation, and improve self-reported academic performance in large lecture courses. The following article demonstrates how a simple, scalable strategy can transform student-instructor relationships and enhance learning outcomes. From anonymity to engagement: the benefits of early-semester student-instructor meetings James T. Davis, Abigail P. Sondreal, Frederick Bauer, and Joseph T. Cornelius Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3, 605-610

In this podcast, co-first author Jonathan Hyde discusses the recently published article, ‘Pulmonary Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction is Induced by Nonpulsatile Pulmonary Blood Flow in an Ovine Classic Glenn Model’. The study used an in vivo large animal model combined with ex vivo and in vitro studies to investigate pulmonary vascular endothelial cell dysfunction associated with the Glenn procedure. The results suggest that low, non-pulsatile flow associated with Glenn physiology plays a pivotal role in development of endothelial cell dysfunction. Pulmonary Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction Is Induced by Nonpulsatile Pulmonary Blood Flow in an Ovine Classic Glenn Model Jonathan Hyde, Michael A. Smith, Naveen Swami, John H. Hwang, Yenchun Chao, Jason Boehme, Gary W. Raff, Casper Noah Nilsson, Wenhui Gong, Gail H. Deutsch, Eric G. Johnson, Ting Wang, Stephen M. Black, Sanjeev A. Datar, Emin Maltepe, Jeffrey R. Fineman Comprehensive Physiology 2025 15:6, e70071 https://doi.org/10.1002/cph4.70071

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, Dr. Ralph Rühl discusses his team’s new article in Physiological Genomics, “Transcriptome-driven Health-status Transversal-predictor Analysis for health, food, microbiome and disease markers for understanding of lifestyle diseases.” The article outlines the development of a novel artificial intelligence approach based on machine-learning to predict general health and food-intake parameters. This novel technique, which is based on PBMC transcriptomics from human blood, can predict a wide range of health-related markers. Todt T, van Bussel I, Afman L, Brennan L, Ivanova DG, Kiselova-Kaneva Y, Thomas EL, Rühl R. Transcriptome-driven Health-status Transversal-predictor Analysis for health, food, microbiome and disease markers for understanding of lifestyle diseases. Physiol Genomics. 2025 Nov 19. doi: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00026.2025. PMID: 41259124.

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, David Van Reyk discusses their study on "The use of AI large language models by university students for assignment preparation." Over 50% used AI for idea generation and drafting. PRC students showed improvements in their grades with the use of AI, while Australian students’ grades remained unchanged. Students support institutional guidance and access for responsible AI use. The use of AI large language models by university students for assignment preparation Hui Chen, David Van Reyk, and Brian G. Oliver Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:2, 517-525

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors Christine Bell and Oana Birceanu discuss their recently published article, “Educators’ experience and guide to scaffolding generative AI applications throughout a physiology and pharmacology undergraduate laboratory course.” The paper presents a two-pronged approach to reduce GenAI confusion and build AI literacy, research, and critical thinking skills. Educators’ experience and guide to scaffolding generative AI applications throughout a physiology and pharmacology undergraduate laboratory course Christine E. Bell and Oana Birceanu Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3, 721-728

In the latest APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, John Zubek discusses, “From virtual to reality: evaluating student attitudes through VR dissection preparations: a use case.” VR vs. live dissections: how do students learn best? We explored their experiences to see how tech can complement STEM & healthcare training. From virtual to reality: evaluating student attitudes through VR dissection preparations: a use case Sarah Shine, Julia Warznie, Guoli Zhou, and John Zubek Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3, 611-620

In this episode of the APS Publications Podcast, featuring Advances in Physiology Education, coauthors Serena Kuang and Nora Laban discuss their recently published Illuminations paper “From compliance to moduli: clarifying basic mechanical properties of biological tissues.” This article advances physiology education by clarifying the basic mechanical property-related terms in physiology, introducing two fundamental terms in material science that are often missing in physiology education, and revealing the interrelationships among these terms. It serves as a handy tool kit for physiology educators, researchers, as well as clinicians to select and apply these terms appropriately based on their needs. From compliance to moduli: clarifying basic mechanical properties of biological tissues Nora Laban, Radwa Dawood, and Serena Y. Kuang Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3, 651-658

In this podcast, coauthors Mary Pelkowski and Gabi Waite discuss their recently published Illuminations article, “Implementing core concept teaching in an integrated, clinical presentation model medical school curriculum”. They outline a practical approach to incorporating physiology core-concept teaching into an integrated, team-taught medical curriculum—combining a clinical presentation model with flipped classroom learning. Implementing core concept teaching in an integrated, clinical presentation model medical school curriculum Mary M. Pelkowski, Xiaojun Qi-Lytle, and Gabi N. Waite Advances in Physiology Education 2025 49:3, 659-666