Anatomy and Physiology - Bit by Bit
Anatomy & Physiology - Bit by Bit is an educational podcast that breaks down the complexities of human anatomy and physiology into digestible episodes. Hosted by Dr. Steve Sullivan, a tenured professor at Bucks County Community College, the show aims to help college students achieve a 'B or better' in their A&P courses. It also serves anyone curious about how the human body works. The podcast covers topics relevant to fields like nursing, physical therapy, and radiography, and encourages listener questions via email.
Episodes
Autoimmune Disease - Episode 91 (with Dr. Alexis Barbut)
Episode 91 covers the basics of autoimmune disease with special guest Dr. Alexis Barbut. Dr. Alexis is a double board-certified rheumatologist with a clinical focus on reproductive rheumatology, women’s health, and autoimmune disease. We talked about the causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options of autoimmune disease in general. We also touch on some of the more common ones, like mult
Stroke, Cerebrovascular Disease, & Aneurysm - Episode 90
Episode 90 covers the third leading cause of death in the world: stroke. Stroke goes hand-in-hand with cerebrovascular disease and aneurysm, so I put it all together in this episode. We talk about what a stroke is, the different kinds, the risk factors, how they happen, diagnosis, treatment, and more. This episode is essential for any practicing or aspiring healthcare professional.
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Alzheimer Disease and Parkinson Disease - Episode 89
Episode 89 covers two of the most common neurological diseases of aging, Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. I know it sounds odd without the possessive, but that's the standard when it's written. These diseases are often reduced to "dementia" and "tremors," but there is so much more to their mechanisms, signs, symptoms, findings, treatments, and prognoses. We discuss the anatomic
Infectious Disease & Vaccines with Dr. Anusha Viswanathan, MD - Episode 88
For this episode, I am joined by Dr. Anusha Viswanathan, MD, pediatric infectious disease specialist. Dr. Viswanathan and I discuss bacteria, viruses, signs & symptoms, fevers, antibiotics, antibiotic resistance, vaccines, vaccine hesitancy & denial, and Anusha’s own podcast with Diana Leygerman, “Everyone Deserves Sunshine,” which is about the HBO Max show, Heated Rivalry. Outbreaks of diseases t
COPD with Dr. Nina Maouelainin - Episode 87
Episode 87 is all about the 3rd most common cause of death in the United States: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Joining me to discuss this extremely important clinical topic is Philadelphia-area interventional pulmonologist Dr. Nina Maouelainin. Dr. Nina is the founder of Lung Health Services and the Women in Interventional Pulmonology organization. We discussed what COPD is, the causes, r
Joints (Part 2) - Episode 86
This is ANOTHER bonus mid-week episode at the request of a listener! Mykenzie from Minnesota asked for an episode on joints, and that is what you’re all going to get. In fact, you’re getting TWO episodes on joints because it’s just too much information for one! Joints (Part 2) focuses on synovial joints. I discuss the angular movements that take place at joints and the most clinically significant
Obesity and GLP-1 with Dr. Angela Fitch, MD - Episode 85
This episode is all about the disease of obesity, its related illnesses, and treatments, such as GLP-1 agonists, like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Monjaro. My guest, Dr. Angela Fitch, M.D. is an obesity medicine specialist who is the co-founder and chief medical officer of knownwell, a medical clinic that specializes in judgement-free, evidence-based weight management and weight-inclusive primar
Joints (Part 1) - Episode 84
This is a bonus mid-week episode at the request of a listener! Mykenzie from Minnesota asked for an episode on joints, and that is what you’re all going to get. In fact, you’re getting TWO episodes on joints because it’s just too much information for one! Joints (Part 1) covers the basics of arthrology, basic anatomy, classes of joints, lever systems, and range of motion. Thanks, Mykenzie, for rea
What is Cancer? - Episode 83 (with Christy Kestner, PhD)
This episode asks the important and broad question, “What is Cancer?” To answer it, I spoke with Dr. Christy Kestner, PhD. Dr. Kestner has a PhD in Neuroscience, with a focus on immunology and oncology. We discuss the cellular basis of cancer, signs & symptoms, types, risk factors, causes, treatments, and more. Basically, the nuts and bolts of cancer. You can find Dr. Kestner on Instagram, Substac
Diabetes Mellitus - Episode 82
This episode covers one of the most common diseases in the world, diabetes mellitus. Most people know someone with diabetes, whether it’s type 1 or type 2. We discuss exactly what diabetes mellitus is, the difference between type 1 & 2, the causes, risk factors, signs & symptoms, lab findings, exam findings, complications, treatments, prognoses, and more. It is the 7th leading cause of dea
Coronary Artery Disease - Episode 81
This episode covers the number 1 cause of death in the history of the human race, coronary artery disease, the most common form of heart disease. It’s also known as ischemic heart disease. It is still the leading cause of death in the world. Listen in to find out exactly what it is. Among other things, we discuss its causes, risk factors, signs, symptoms, exam findings, lab findings, treatments, a
REBOOT: The Cytoplasm of the Human Cell (Episode 5)
This is a REBOOT of episode 5. I have added more pertinent content that you are probably going to need in A&P. This reboot is an in-depth look at the cytoplasm of a human cell. We discuss organelles, inclusions, cytosol, the cytoskeleton, glycolysis, anaerobic fermentation, aerobic respiration, and a little bit about the nucleus. You can check out my Instagram and Youtube for more A&P cont
Big Announcement for 'A&P: Bit by Bit' Listeners
Anatomy & Physiology: Bit by Bit is shifting gears! Now that most of the content covered in a typical A&P course has been covered, it's time to move toward CLINICAL APPLICATION. Each episode will now focus on specific diseases, conditions, and injuries. Being able to apply the concepts in A&P to clinical scenarios is the best way to show mastery! The first clinical episode will drop on
REBOOT: Specifics of Membrane Transport - Episode 4
This episode is a reboot of episode 4, in which I discuss the important topic of membrane transport. I re-recorded it for better quality and added a lot more pertinent content. Listen to review how water, solutes, ions, metabolic waste, and other materials enter and exit the cell across its plasma membrane. Diffusion and osmosis, passive and active transport, you name it. This is one of the most i
REBOOT: Cells and Their Plasma Membrane: Episode 3
This episode introduces the cell and discusses the plasma membrane in detail. This includes the phospholipid bilayer, cholesterol, and membrane proteins. Since it was first released in 2019, I have added some content and improved the audio quality. Check it out for a much-needed review!
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Christmas Bonus - The Physiology of Christmas Day!
This Bonus Holiday Episode is all about how your body reacts and adjusts to all the happenings of a typical Christmas Day, for those who observe. It may also apply to Hanukkah, American Thanksgiving, or any other gathering of friends and family around a dinner table. I hope you enjoy this fun take on the holidays and how they relate to anatomy & physiology. Happy Holidays to all, and I wish you al
REBOOT: Characteristics of Life & Homeostasis - Episode 2
This BONUS episode is a beefed-up version of my original Episode #2. I have tightened up the quality of the recording and added more content. Episode 2 now covers the 6 essential characteristics of living things and the principles of homeostasis. Homeostasis is the way our bodies maintain a consistent internal environment despite living in an inconsistent external environment. Negative and positiv
REBOOT: Body Organization and Anatomical Terminology: Episode 1
This BONUS Episode is a reboot of Episode 1 from back in 2019. I have re-recorded some of it for better audio quality and added more content than existed in the originally aired episode. The basis for Human Anatomy & Physiology is how the body is organized and the anatomical terminology we use to discuss it. I recommend listening to this episode and then going all the way back to Episode 2 and
Evolution Explained - Episode 80
The goal of episode 80 is to explain the process of evolution and natural selection through the lens of the scientific method. If you’re not sure exactly what evolution is or how it works, this episode is for you. If you are doubtful of the existence of evolution, this episode is also for you!
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Genetics and Heredity for A&P - Episode 79
Episode 79 covers Genetics and Heredity for A&P. This is an accessible discussion of genetics for anyone interested in a general overview of genes and heredity. Almost every A&P text will cover some level of genetics, which is essential for understanding the basis of many diseases. I discuss chromosomes, dominance, co-dominance, incomplete dominance, epigenetics, and more. I also recommend one of
Exercise Physiology and Personal Trainer April Hattori of Yes2Next - Episode 78
This episode covers the physiology of exercise. What happens to our body when we are exercising and what happens after? How do different kinds of exercise change our response? Who should do what? Why is it good for us? All these questions are answered. I also speak with personal trainer April Hattori of yes2next. Yes2Next is a very popular YouTube channel with hundreds of exercise instruction vide
Aging Part 2 - Episode 77
Episode 77 is the second half of my coverage of aging and senescence. We talk about the effect of aging on the immune, respiratory, urinary, digestive, and reproductive systems. I also answer a listener question about anti-aging and what we can do to prevent senescence.
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Aging Part 1 - Episode 76
Episode 76 is Part 1 of Aging and Senescence. We discuss what happens to our body systems, one at a time, during the aging process. We cover osteoporosis, vision loss, skin changes, muscle atrophy, the slowing of nerve conduction velocity, and the dampening of our senses.
Make sure you tell your professors about A&P Digital Suite where they can assign up to 165 of my tutor videos as well as indust
Pregancy Complications and the Neonatal Period PLUS Integrative Medicine with Dr. Julia Helstrom - Episode 75
Episode 75 covers the most common complications in pregnancy as well as the neonatal period for a newborn. I discuss gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, C-sections, the neonate’s adjustments to the outside world, and common challenges and birth defects. I also talk with Dr. Julia Helstrom of Bucks County Center for Integrative Medicine. Dr. Helstrom provides a clear explanation of what integrative
Pregnancy & Childbirth Plus Anatomical Cheatsheets - Episode 74
Episode 74 covers the changes to an expectant birth-mother’s body during pregnancy and the process of childbirth. I also talked with Michelle Shaw, president of life-sized learning and inventor of anatomical cheatsheets, a very cool product that is helping students around the world learn and retain anatomy. You can find and check out anatomical cheatsheets at lifesizedlearning.com and on their Ins
Organogenesis and Fetal Development - Dr. Christy Kestner - Episode 73
Episode 73 continues embryology with organogenesis and fetal development. I also share my conversation with neuroscientist Dr. Christy Kestner, PhD. We talk about neuroscience, immunity, vaccines, cancer, and her new Instagram series about neuroscience. You can find Dr. Kestner on Substack, TikTok, Medium, and LinkedIn. We also talked about promising new research about a pancreatic cancer vaccine!
Fertilization and Embryogenesis - Plus Science Writer Sam Kean - Episode 72
Episode 72 begins our discussion of human development with fertilization and embryogenesis. It also includes my conversation with award-winning, best-selling author Sam Kean. Sam is a world renowned science writer of The Disappearing Spoon and The Violinist’s Thumb, among others. His exciting new book is Dinner with King Tut, in which he ushers us into the world of experimental archaeology, allowi
Egg Cell Formation, Menstrual Cycle, and Birth Control - Plus @wittyanatomy_ (Dr. Ana Paula Benaduce) - Episode 71
Episode 71 covers the formation egg cells, the sexual cycle of biological females (ovarian cycle & menstrual cycle), and how birth control pills work. I also welcome Dr. Ana Paula Benaduce of Florida International University in Miami, FL. You may know her as @wittyanatomy_. She is a rockstar in the anatomy classroom as well as on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. She has an online course for anatomy
Female Reproductive Anatomy, Puberty, and Menopause - Episode 70
Episode 70 begins our discussion of the female reproductive system. We cover gross anatomy, histology, puberty, and menopause. We also discuss cervical cancer and hormone replacement therapy.
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Reproductive System of Biological Males - Episode 69
Episode 69 covers the anatomy and physiology of the biological male’s reproductive system. Internal and external anatomy, spermatogenesis, puberty, hormone regulation, etc. Combined with Episode 68, this is most, if not all, you’ll need to know for about biological males. I highly recommend listening to Episode 68 first to review meiosis before this one.
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Sex, Gender, & Reproduction - Episode 68 (with Special Guest Dr. Kevin Patton)
Episode 68 begins our discussion of the reproductive systems, starting with the basics of sexual reproduction, meiosis, sex, gender, and the biological development of male and female organs and characteristics. You will also hear my conversation with Dr. Kevin Patton, author of several A&P texts from Elsevier publishers. Kevin is a professor emeritus at St. Charles Community College in Missouri, a
Lipid & Protein Metabolism and Metabolic Rate/State - Episode 67
Episode 67 finishes the discussion of metabolism with the specifics of lipid and protein metabolism, metabolic states, and metabolic rate. We also discuss body temperature and thermoregulation.Tell your professors about A&P Digital Suite where they can assign up to 165 of my tutor videos as well as industry-leading A&P lab simulations. Check out my Instagram account and Youtube channel wit
Carbohydrate Metabolism/Dietary Recommendations - Episode 66
Episode 66 begins our discussion of metabolism. I cover the general concept and carbohydrate metabolism specifically. Special thanks to Brittany for asking me question about the food pyramid and dietary recommendations in the US.
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Nutrition Part 3 - Episode 65
Episode 65 finishes our discussion of nutrition with vitamin and mineral deficiencies and toxicities, their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Special thanks to both Millionpodcasts and Feedspot for ranking this show the #1 Anatomy & Physiology podcast on the internet. And thank you for rating and reviewing the show!
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Nutrition Part 2 and Neurologist Dr. David Kaufman - Episode 64
Today’s episode continues our discussion of nutrition, covering serum lipids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. I also had the pleasure of talking with Dr. David Kaufman, professor of neurology at Michigan State University and former sideline neurologist for Michigan State Football. We talked about how he became the sideline neurologist, the worst injury he saw, concussions, and chronic traumatic
Nutrition Part 1- Episode 63
Episode 63 begins my discussion of nutrition. I cover the general introduction to what nutrition is as well as the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients. I also cover carbohydrates and start to talk about fats. In the beginning, I answer a question from Sharon, a pre-nursing student in Minnesota, who asked about gluten and celiac disease. Check out the National Institutes of Health
Large Intestine, Motility, Blood Supply plus SHARPEN- Episode 62
Episode 62 finishes up the digestive system with the large intestine, intestinal motility, and blood supply. I also talked with the good people at Sharpen by McGraw-Hill. Sharpen is a study app that includes learning resources, flash cards, quizzes, videos, and more to help students study for college courses and be better prepared for exams. You can find Sharpen on the web, in the Apple App Store,
Small Intestine & Accessory Organs, plus Dr. Jessica Knurick- Episode 61
In this episode, we continue on with the digestive system, discussing the small intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and chemical digestion. I also share my conversation with Dr. Jessica Knurick, a registered dietitian with a Ph.D. in Nutrition Science. Dr. Knurick has over 1,000,000 followers on instagram, where she refutes the rampant disinformation about health and public policy on social m
The Stomach and @My.anatomy.teacher- Episode 60
This episode covers the stomach. Gross anatomy, histology, motility, secretion, etc. I also had the pleasure of talking with TikTok and Instagram's @my.anatomy.teacher. Dr. Jill is the best at finding memory hacks that help students perform better on exams. She also posts instructional videos and quizzes. You can also check her out on YouTube. For images that help follow along with this episode, c
Digestive System Intro/Autoimmune Disease - Episode 59
This episode begins the digestive system by covering the functions, general anatomy and histology, the mouth, esophagus, and swallowing. I also discuss autoimmune diseases in response to several listener questions.
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Adaptive Immunity (3rd Line of Defense) - Episode 58
This episode covers adaptive immunity. This includes cellular immunity and humoral immunity. It's the reason you don't get chicken pox twice and why vaccines protect us from disease.
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Immunity's 2nd Line of Defense- Episode 57
Episode 57 continues with the immune system, specifically the 2nd Line of Defense. That includes leukocytes, antimicrobial proteins, inflammation, and fever.
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Immune System and Learning Strategies- Episode 56
This episode begins our discussion of the immune system. I also talk to Dr. Michael Koot of McGraw-Hill Education about learning strategies students can use to foster success in courses like Anatomy & Physiology. In our conversation, Dr. Koot references The Learning Scientists and Daniel Willingham's book OutSmart Your Brain. I highly recommend checking all these links out to learn more about
Urinary Part 3 (Kidney Stones)- Episode 55
Episode 55 finishes up the Urinary System, and I answer a listener's question about kidney stones. Thank you, Sarah, from the UK, for sending me your question! We cover a good amount of anatomy in this episode, so go to my Instagram page, where you can find images to help you follow along.
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Urinary System Part 2 (The Nephron)- Episode 54
Today's episode continues our discussion of the urinary system with the nephron, including glomerular filtration, tubular reabsorption, and tubular secretion.
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Urinary System Part 1 / Doing Good & Doing Well- Episode 53
Episode 53 begins our discussion of the urinary system, including general functions and anatomy. The urinary system does so much more than just making pee... but that is super important! Check out my Instagram to see images you can use to follow along with today's anatomy discussion.
I also have a conversation with Dr. Michael L. Kaufman, author of the book Doing Good & Doing Well: Inspiring H
Respiratory Physiology/Dental Hygiene- Episode 52
This episode covers the concepts of respiration, including gas exchange, the laws that govern it, partial pressure, carbon dioxide transport, and oxyhemoglobin dissociation. I also have a conversation with Christina Byrne of ACT Dental who talks about being a dental hygienist, what it takes to become one, and all the career options associated with it.
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Respiratory Anatomy, Spirometry, & Medical Assisting - Episode 51
Episode 51 begins the Respiratory System by discussing its anatomy as well as lung volumes and capacities. It also includes my conversation with David DiVenti, instructor of Medical Assisting and Supervisor of Allied Health and Workforce Development at Camden County College in Camden County, New Jersey. David talks about being a Medical Assistant, what it takes to become one, and how rewarding a c
Lymphatic Tissues and Organs- Episode 50
This episode continues the lymphatic system with discussion of lymphatic tissues and organs, including the spleen, tonsils, thymus, and lymph nodes.
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Lymph & Lymphatic Vessels- Episode 49
Today's episode begins the lymphatic system. I posted an image on Instagram that may help you follow along with some of the anatomy talk. I also answer a listener question about VO2 Max.
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The Cardiac Cycle- Episode 48
This episode covers the Cardiac Cycle, which is everything that happens in the heart from the beginning of one heartbeat to the beginning of the next heartbeat. The best visual for this is the Wiggers Diagram, which I have posted on instagram (studenthelp4AP) and twitter (@studenthelp4AP). I recommend using this image to following along.
I also answer a question about hydration from listener Ali.
Heart (Electrical Activity)- Episode 47
Episode 47 covers the electrical activity of the heart as well as explains the ECG. The heart is unique that it generates and conducts its own electrical signals without a need for motor neurons. For an in-depth look at the human heart and the rest of the human body, check out A&P Digital Suite for over 150 A&P tutor videos I've made, study guides, and comprehensive anatomy and physiology
Heart (Cardiac Muscle) - Episode 46
This episode covers the histology of cardiac muscle tissue including how some cardiac muscle cells generate their own electrical signals. This is how the heart beats without being innervated by neurons. I also talk about coronary artery disease and bypass surgery.
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Heart (Gross Anatomy) - Episode 45
Episode 45 covers the gross anatomy of the heart. Whether your in a cadaver lab, dissecting an animal heart, using models, or a digital anatomy program like Anatomy & Physiology Revealed, this episode should help you visualize the human heart and it's most significant structures. For an in-depth look at the human heart and the rest of the human body, check out A&P Digital Suite for over 15
Capillary Exchange - Episode 44
This episode covers capillary exchange, the way our blood delivers and receives materials to and from the tissues. I also invite you to listen to conversations I had with my colleagues at the Annual National Conference of the Human Anatomy & Physiology Society (HAPS). I got to talk to professors, authors, publishers, and anatomical model creators. Judy Nath. Anatomic Excellence.
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Blood Pressure - Episode 43
Today's episode is about blood pressure. It's not just something we avoid, it's essential for our circulatory system to function. We focus on hydrostatic pressure and work out a formula to to calculate resistance to flow. We also discuss coronary artery disease and why it is the leading cause of death in the world.
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Blood Vessel Anatomy - Episode 42
Today we tackle the anatomy of blood vessels. Arteries, veins, and capillaries, oh my! What are they made of? What does that tissue do? What's the difference between them? All these questions are answered in Episode 42. I also answer a listener question about blood plasma from Eliza in Melbourne, Australia.
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Skydiving Accident Survivor - Jason Dennen - Episode 41
In 2018, triathlete and skydiver Jason Dennen was in a catastrophic skydiving accident that put him in a coma for 8 days, broke 20 bones, damaged several organs, and dislodged his heart from the pericardial sac. Doctors were shocked he reached the hospital alive. Within a year of the accident and being told he wouldn't be able to run again, Jason completed a triathlon. This episode is entirely dev
Leukocytes and Platelets - Episode 40
Today's episode focuses on white blood cells (leukocytes) and platelets (thrombocytes). We touch on their formation, anatomy, and function. We also discuss a little about hemophilia, when blood doesn't clot.
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Blood, Erythrocytes, & Blood Type - Episode 39
In this episode, we begin our coverage of the circulatory system with some general information, functions, and an introduction to blood. We discuss red blood cells (erythrocytes), their production, and blood type. I also answer a listener's question about hormone-disrupting chemicals. Click here for the source I used for that information.
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Other Hormones - Episode 38
Episode 38 covers the rest of the hormones we"ll be discussing, including those from the pineal, thymus, skin, heart, bones, muscles, and more. Also, you'll get to hear my conversation with Kira Kraiman, national board certified health and wellness coach. We discussed what it means to be a wellness coach as well as smoking cessation, diabetes, nutrition, and exercise. You can check out what K
Pancreas And Adrenal Glands - Episode 37
Episode 37 covers the endocrine portion of the pancreas as well as the adrenal glands. These two important endocrine glands are incredibly clinically significant. Diseases associated with them are diabetes, cushing, and addison disease. We discuss both's role in glucose metabolism and the regulation of blood sugar. A must listen for anyone considering a career in the health professions.
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Thyroid & Parathyroid - Episode 36
In this episode we get into the specifics of the thyroid and parathyroid glands as well as their hormones and conditions associated with them, like hypothyroidism, Graves' Disease, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. You'll also get to hear my conversation with Jennifer Bentley, BSN, MSN, who is a former ER nurse and current endoscopy nurse specializing in nursing informatics. You'll get to hear why she
Hypothalamus And Pituitary - Episode 35
This episode is a deep dive into the hypothalamus and the pituitary. There are 70+ hormones in the body and these two small structures are responsible for 14 of them. With the hypophyseal portal system and the hypothalamo-hypophyseal tract, we can visualize the intricate connection between these two. The pituitary is known as the "master gland," but as we can see, it does nothing unless
Hormone Action - Episode 34
This episode discusses how hormones take action on their target cells. We look at both lipid soluble and water soluble hormones and their subclasses. I also answer a listener's question about neurological exams and how they pertain to a recent episode.
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Endocrine System Intro - Episode 33
Episode 33 introduces the endocrine system and its functions. We discuss hormones, their chemical makeup, and how they're secreted and transported. The endocrine system is clinically significant to just about every healthcare field and we'll spend more than one episode on it.
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Balance & Equilibrium - Episode 32
Episode 32 continues with the ear, covering balance and equilibrium. We discuss what vertigo is, the symptoms, and how it's treated. I also have a conversation with Dr. Kathy Burleson of Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA. Dr. Burleson is the founder and chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the Human Anatomy & Physiology Society (HAPS). We discuss that commit
Hearing - Episode 31
This episode covers the anatomy of the ear and the physiology of hearing. I also discuss the physics of sound waves and how we convert sound waves to the electrical signals that make it to our brain so we can perceive sound.
Check out my Instagram account and Youtube channel with more A&P content to help you understand the human body and maybe even get your B or better in A&P. As always, f
Vision - Episode 30
Episode 30 covers the anatomy of the eye, image formation, visual reflexes, and the neural pathway of vision. I also had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Benjamin Rowe, optometrist and owner of Doylestown Family Eye Associates in the suburbs of Philadelphia. We discuss what an optometrist does, how to become one, and eye pathology. The team at Doylestown Family Eye Associates has been treating m
Smell And Taste - Episode 29
Episode 29 continues with sensation by covering the chemical senses: olfaction (smell) and gustation (taste). You'll also get to hear my conversation with chef and restaurateur Chris Pastena of Oakland, California. Chris also co-founded the non-profit Community Kitchens, which works to feed the hungry in the Oakland area. You can learn more about Community Kitchens and how you can help.
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General Senses - Episode 28
Episode 28 begins our discussion of sensation, the last nervous system topic. We focus on general senses, saving special senses for the next episode. In this episode I spoke with Dr. Krista Rompolski, who teaches A&P in the physical therapy department of Moravian University in Bethlehem, PA. Krista is also an author on the textbook Fox’s Human Physiology, from McGraw-Hill Education. Krista sha
Autonomic Nervous System Part 2 - Episode 27
Episode 27 finishes up the autonomic nervous system, discussing the neurotransmitters of the ANS, dual innervation, and central control. It also includes my conversation with Dr. Beth Kersten, professor of anatomy & physiology at the State College of Florida’s Venice campus. Beth is one of the authors of Gunstream’s Anatomy & Physiology, a textbook published by McGraw-Hill Education. Beth
Autonomic Nervous System Part 1 - Episode 26
Episode 26 begins our discussion of the autonomic nervous system, our fight-or-flight and rest-and-digest control. The autonomic nervous system mediates the visceral reflexes that control heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and a plethora of physiological processes.
You’ll also get to hear my conversation with Dr. Michael Windelspecht, author of the Mader’s Biology series of textbooks from McGr
Human Brain Part 5 (Brainstem, Diencephalon, Cerebellum) - Episode 25
Episode 25 is the final brain episode covering the brainstem, diencephalon, and cerebellum. These are the more primitive parts of our brain controlling whether we’re hungry or thirsty, our fight-or-flight mechanisms, cardiovascular and respiratory function, monitoring our body’s position in space, and coordinating our movements. It’s a lot to cover, so there is no guest on today’s episode.
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Human Brain Part 4 (Cerebrum) - Episode 24
Episode 24 covers the largest part of the brain, the cerebrum. But first, my conversation with Dr. Bee Heeney-Stemple, professor of Anatomy & Physiology at Bucks County Community College (where I teach!). Dr. Heeney-Stemple has been researching the effect of stress, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on learning, including techniques to counteract those effects to maximize stud
Human Brain Part 3 (Meninges And CSF) - Episode 23
After an almost 2 1/2 year hiatus, the return episode covers the basics of the meninges and cerebrospinal fluid of the central nervous system.
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Human Brain Part 2 (Brain Barriers And Cranial Nerves) - Episode 22
This episode covers the brain barrier system that protects the brain tissue from harmful agents that can be found in our blood. I also discuss cranial nerves I–XII, their origins, and their functions.
Dr. Kevin Petti, Professor at San Diego Miramar College, coauthor of the textbook "Visual A&P" from Pearson Education, and the founder of Anatomia Italiana, joins me to discuss A&P
Human Brain Part 1 - Episode 21
Episode 21 begins our journey into the anatomy and physiology of the human brain, starting, of course, with anatomy. It also marks our first episode with a guest. Dr. Charles Welsh is not only a professor of Biology at Duquesne University, but he is also the author of Hole's Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology, as well as a co-author on Hole's Anatomy & Physiology (the majors-level textbook
Spinal Nerves And Reflexes - Episode 20
In this episode, I continue on with the nervous system and spinal cord, discussing spinal nerves, plexuses, and reflexes. I also answered a listener's question about recommended books, like "Mader's Human Biology" by Dr. Michael Windelspecht and "Hole's Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology" by Dr. Chuck Welsh. Both are great resources by excellent authors and professors.
Chec
Spinal Cord - Episode 19
This episode covers the spinal cord anatomy and a little bit of function. I also discuss how spinal tracts are named, and I answer a question about myelination, nerve signal conduction velocity, and Multiple Sclerosis.
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