32
Lectures
45
minutes/lecture
1.
Cardiovascular System—Anatomy of the Heart
This introductory lecture examines the anatomy of the fist-sized muscle that pumps blood through the body. We review the distinction between arteries and veins and discuss the location of the heart, its coverings, layers, and subdivisions.
1.
Cardiovascular System—Anatomy of the Heart
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17.
Digestive System—Physiology of the Pancreas, Liver, and the Biliary Tree
This lecture reviews the functions of the pancreas, the liver, and the biliary tree. The pancreas and liver secrete digestive juices and enzymes that aid in digestion and absorption. In this lecture, we review the components of the exocrine pancreas. After reviewing several pancreatic disorders, we turn to the liver and examine the various functions that it performs. We conclude with a review of common liver disorders.
17.
Digestive System—Physiology of the Pancreas, Liver, and the Biliary Tree
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2.
Cardiovascular System—Physiology of the Heart
In this lecture, we examine the functioning of the cardiac cycle. We also examine the functioning of the heart's conduction system, the functioning of the valves (which produce the heart's distinctive "lub-dub" sound), and possible complications, notably atherosclerosis.
2.
Cardiovascular System—Physiology of the Heart
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18.
Digestive System—Anatomy of the Small Intestine, Colon, and Rectum
We turn now to the anatomy of the organs in which nutrients and water are extracted for use by the body and by which the resulting waste material is excreted from the body. The small intestine is the organ in which most of the absorption of nutrients and water occurs. We review its anatomical divisions, blood supply, and microstructure. We turn next to the large intestine, or colon, which absorbs remaining water and transfers the feces to the rectum for excretion.
18.
Digestive System—Anatomy of the Small Intestine, Colon, and Rectum
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3.
Cardiovascular System—Anatomy of the Great Vessels
This lecture examines the anatomy of the three vessel networks that circulate blood. We identify and describe the structure of the vessels that form these networks. Next, we examine the major circulatory routes for the blood: arterial and venous systemic circulation, pulmonary circulation, and hepatic portal circulation.
3.
Cardiovascular System—Anatomy of the Great Vessels
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19.
Digestive System—Physiology of the Small Intestine, Colon, and Rectum
This last lecture on the digestive system examines the physiology of the small and large intestines and the rectum. First, we examine mechanical and chemical digestion in the small intestine. We turn next to the large intestine or colon, examining the reflexes that move feces into and through the colon for excretion. Finally, we examine the physiology of defecation.
19.
Digestive System—Physiology of the Small Intestine, Colon, and Rectum
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4.
Cardiovascular System—Physiology of the Great Vessels
In this lecture, we examine the physiology of the large blood vessels—how they control blood flow, regulate blood pressure, and control bleeding when ruptured. We will also examine the composition of blood and the functions of each of its parts—plasma, white blood cells, and red blood cells.
4.
Cardiovascular System—Physiology of the Great Vessels
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20.
Endocrine System—The Pituitary and Adrenal Glands
This is the first of three lectures on the endocrine system, the glands that secrete hormones directly into spaces surrounding cells. We examine the functional differences between the endocrine and nervous systems, and the basic properties of hormones. Next, we look at the most important endocrine glands: the pituitary gland, the hypothalamus, and the adrenal glands.
20.
Endocrine System—The Pituitary and Adrenal Glands
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5.
Respiratory System—Anatomy of the Lungs
This lecture examines the anatomy of the respiratory system. After studying the integration of the respiratory system with the circulatory system, we review the anatomy of the structures through which air enters the body and passes into the lungs.
5.
Respiratory System—Anatomy of the Lungs
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21.
Endocrine System—Pancreas
This lecture examines the endocrine functions of the pancreas. As an endocrine organ, the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon. After reviewing the four cell types composing the endocrine pancreas, the lecture examines in detail several insulin-related disorders: two principal types of diabetes mellitus and hyperinsulinism.
21.
Endocrine System—Pancreas
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6.
Respiratory System—Physiology of the Lungs
We turn now to the physiology of the respiratory system. We examine the four areas where respiration occurs and the consequences of blocking this respiration. We review the physiology of the movement of gases into the lungs and of their exchange with waste gases. Finally, we turn to the central respiratory centers, and we examine some respiratory disorders and their treatments.
6.
Respiratory System—Physiology of the Lungs
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22.
Endocrine System—Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
This lecture examines the thyroid gland and the parathyroid glands. For each, we briefly review the gross and microscopic anatomy, its physiology, and the consequences of dysfunction. Thyroid dysfunction can lead to cretinism, myxedema, Graves' disease, and other pathologies. Parathyroid dysfunction can lead to disorders including bony demineralization, high calcium levels, duodenal ulcers, kidney stones, and behavioral disorders.
22.
Endocrine System—Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
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7.
Nervous System—Anatomy of the Brain
This is the first of seven lectures on the nervous system. We examine the anatomy of the brain—its principal components and its main anatomical divisions. Next we examine the divisions of the cerebrum and the functional areas of the cerebral cortex.
7.
Nervous System—Anatomy of the Brain
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23.
Urinary System—Anatomy of the Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder
This is the first of two lectures on the urinary system. We examine the anatomy of the kidneys, the ureters, and the bladder. We consider the kidneys' major functioning unit—the nephron. The lecture concludes by reviewing the conduits through which urine passes before excretion from the body.
23.
Urinary System—Anatomy of the Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder
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8.
Nervous System—Physiology of the Brain
We turn now to the brain's physiology. After considering how the nervous and endocrine systems work together, we review the functions of the nervous system and of nervous tissue. The main divisions of the central and peripheral nervous systems are reviewed. Finally, we distinguish afferent from efferent nerves and describe the categories of cranial and spinal nerves.
8.
Nervous System—Physiology of the Brain
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24.
Urinary System—Physiology of the Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder
This concluding lecture on the urinary system examines the physiology of the urinary tract organs, especially the kidneys. The primary function of the urinary system is to maintain the body's homeostasis. This lecture focuses on the physiology of the nephron and how it filters many of the blood's components, reabsorbs some, and removes others. The lecture concludes by briefly reviewing the physiology of the ureters and bladder.
24.
Urinary System—Physiology of the Kidneys, Ureters, and Bladder
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9.
Nervous System—Spinal Cord and Spinal Nerves
This lecture examines the anatomy and functions of the spinal cord. We review the reflex arc, which allows the body to react rapidly to changes in the external environment. Finally, the lecture examines the categories and locations of the spinal nerves.
9.
Nervous System—Spinal Cord and Spinal Nerves
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25.
Reproductive System—Male
Lecture 25 is the first of three on the reproductive system. We examine the gross anatomy of the male reproductive system. The scrotum contains the testes, which produce spermatozoa. The lecture also reviews the functions of the prostate and Cowper's glands, the process of erection and ejaculation, and the composition of the semen.
25.
Reproductive System—Male
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10.
Nervous System—Autonomic Nervous System and Cranial Nerves
We begin this lecture by examining the autonomic nervous system, which controls the body's basic functions without conscious intervention by the higher brain centers. We distinguish between the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest and recovery, and the sympathetic nervous system, which promotes "fight and flight." Finally, we will review the 12 pairs of cranial nerves and their functions.
10.
Nervous System—Autonomic Nervous System and Cranial Nerves
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26.
Reproductive System—Female
This lecture reviews the female reproductive system. We begin by reviewing the anatomy of the external female genitalia, and the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Next we consider the physiology of the menstrual cycle, fertilization, and early pregnancy. Finally, we examine the anatomy and physiology of the breast, the risk factors and treatments for breast cancer.
26.
Reproductive System—Female
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11.
Nervous System—The Eyes
This lecture examines the eyes. We examine the anatomy of the eyeball, its coverings and functions, and the photoreceptors of the retina that allow us to perceive shades and colors of light. We also review the structure and functions of the lens, eyelids, lacrimal glands and ducts, and extrinsic eye muscles. Next, we consider how the eye perceives light and how the brain converts those perceptions into meaningful information.
11.
Nervous System—The Eyes
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27.
Reproductive System—Physiology of Genetic Inheritance
This lecture examines the physiology of genetic inheritance. It begins by identifying the differences between DNA in somatic and germ cells and between genetic and inherited changes in cell DNA. Next, it distinguishes between types of cells and reviews allele inheritance and the sex chromosomes. We examine several developmental abnormalities related to digestion, respiration, and cardiovascular activity.
27.
Reproductive System—Physiology of Genetic Inheritance
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12.
Nervous System—The Ears, Hearing, and Equilibrium
We examine the anatomy of the organs of hearing: the external ear, the eardrum, the tympanic cavity, and the labyrinth. Next, the lecture reviews how these structures gather and transmit sound waves to the brain as nerve impulses. Finally, we examine the anatomy and functions of the vestibular apparatus, structures in the inner ear that govern balance.
12.
Nervous System—The Ears, Hearing, and Equilibrium
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28.
Musculoskeletal System—Physiology and Physics of the Muscles
In this lecture, we will examine the physiology and physics of the muscles. There are three kinds: skeletal, smooth, and cardiac. The muscles are innervated by motor neurons, which stimulate them to contract. Nerves connect with target muscles by means of a neurotransmitter, which conducts the electrical stimulation from the nerve to the muscle across the synaptic gap. The lecture concludes by examining the physics of muscle contraction.
28.
Musculoskeletal System—Physiology and Physics of the Muscles
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13.
Nervous System—Memory
This lecture examines memory and brain pathology and provides information about anesthesia and pain. First, we examine the nature, development, pathology, and mysteries of memory. We then examine kinds of damage to the brain and spinal cord and the results of such damage. We conclude by discussing anesthesia and referred pain.
13.
Nervous System—Memory
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29.
Musculoskeletal System—Anatomy of the Muscles
In this lecture, we examine how muscles operate as levers in conjunction with the bones. We review the names of the muscles, as indicated by their size, shape, orientation of their fibers, mechanical action, number of origins, origin and insertion points, function, and location.
29.
Musculoskeletal System—Anatomy of the Muscles
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14.
Digestive System—Anatomy of the Mouth, Esophagus, and Stomach
This is the first lecture in a six-lecture examination of the digestive system. We examine the structures through which food passes before its conversion into nutrients for the body. We conclude by reviewing the four divisions of the stomach and its layers.
14.
Digestive System—Anatomy of the Mouth, Esophagus, and Stomach
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30.
Musculoskeletal System—Bones
In this final lecture on the musculoskeletal system, we examine the divisions and functions of the skeletal system. First, we consider the gross anatomy of the bones, marrow cavity, blood supply, and surface markings. Next, we examine the cells that compose the bones. Finally, the lecture reviews kinds of bone fractures and their treatments.
30.
Musculoskeletal System—Bones
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15.
Digestive System—Physiology of the Mouth, Esophagus, and Stomach
Having studied the anatomy of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach, we turn now to the processes of digestion, absorption of nutrients, and excretion of waste products. This lecture examines mechanical then chemical digestion. Next, we examine the three phases of gastric secretion, and the process of gastric emptying. Finally, we consider stomach and digestive disorders and their treatments.
15.
Digestive System—Physiology of the Mouth, Esophagus, and Stomach
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31.
Immune System—Anatomy and Physiology
This lecture examines the body's mechanisms for defense against invaders. The main components of the immune system are T-cells, B-cells, natural killer cells, phagocytes, and major histocompatibility complex antigens. The lecture also examines the ability of B-cells and T-cells to memorize past immunological responses and reviews clinical applications: transplantation surgery, HIV/AIDS, and autoimmune disease.
31.
Immune System—Anatomy and Physiology
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16.
Digestive System—Anatomy of the Pancreas, Liver, and the Biliary Tree
This lecture examines the anatomy of the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. First, we examine the gross and microscopic anatomy of the pancreas. We turn next to the liver. The location, size, and blood supply and routing of the liver are reviewed. Finally, the lecture examines the gallbladder and biliary tree—the duct system that drains bile from the liver into the gallbladder and the duodenum.
16.
Digestive System—Anatomy of the Pancreas, Liver, and the Biliary Tree
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32.
The Biology of Human Cancer
In this lecture, we will examine the subject of cancer. We will see how the fragility that allowed us to evolve has saddled us with susceptibility to mutations that can cause cancer. We examine environmental causes of cancer: chemicals, physical agents, and biologic agents, as well as the mechanisms that lead to the basic definition of cancer: failure to differentiate, potential to invade, potential to metastasize, and potential lethality. We will define some important terms.
32.
The Biology of Human Cancer
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24
Lectures
30
minutes/lecture
1.
Medical Knowledge versus Misinformation
In Dr. Novella's introductory lecture, discover the importance of debunking medical myths and learn tips on where to seek out solid, medically backed information. Then, get a taste of the lectures to come by unpacking common myths about hiccups, sneezing, swallowing gum, curing a hangover, and swimming after eating.
1.
Medical Knowledge versus Misinformation
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13.
Vague Symptoms and Fuzzy Diagnoses
Diagnoses are the labels we attach to the signs and symptoms of particular diseases or illnesses. But not all diagnoses are equally valid. Here, learn how doctors make informed diagnoses and investigate several diseases that illustrate the controversy behind them, including chronic Lyme disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia.
13.
Vague Symptoms and Fuzzy Diagnoses
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2.
Myths about Water and Hydration
Water is the most basic element of life. And yet there are many misconceptions about keeping your body hydrated. How exactly do our bodies regulate water? How much water should you really drink every day? Are expensive bottles of water and water purifiers worth the cost?
2.
Myths about Water and Hydration
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14.
Herbalism and Herbal Medicines
Herbalism is perhaps the oldest form of medicine. So how much does it really differ from modern pharmacology? Find out as Dr. Novella explores the complicated process of drug development and testing, and then scientifically debunks popular herbal remedies such as echinacea, Gingko biloba, and St. John's wort.
14.
Herbalism and Herbal Medicines
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3.
Vitamin and Nutrition Myths
You cannot overdose on vitamins. Organically grown food is more nutritious than traditionally grown food. Everyone should take vitamin supplements—and the more the better. These are some of the many myths and half-truths you investigate in this lecture on vitamin use and nutritional health.
3.
Vitamin and Nutrition Myths
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15.
Homeopathy—One Giant Myth
Devised before the advent of science-based medicine, homeopathy is a controversial belief system that should not be substituted for effective treatment. So how is it supposed to work? Why has the science community rejected its prescriptions? How are homeopathic products prepared—and what is actually in them?
15.
Homeopathy—One Giant Myth
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4.
Dieting—Separating Myths from Facts
More than any other component of health, dieting is the area most prone to myths and misinformation. Here, evaluate the veracity of everything from the benefits of low-carb and low-fat diets to the use of weight-loss supplements and intense workouts to the nature of "good" and "bad" fats.
4.
Dieting—Separating Myths from Facts
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16.
Facts about Toxins and Myths about Detox
Find out where toxins come from, how our bodies work to effectively handle toxins, and what toxins you should worry about. Then, discover the scientific reasons why detoxifying treatments like colon cleansing, over-the-counter herbal agents, and skin products do nothing more than leech money out of your wallet.
16.
Facts about Toxins and Myths about Detox
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5.
The Fallacy That Natural Is Always Better
Natural isn't always better for you, as Dr. Novella demonstrates by guiding you through some common fallacies about the "natural foods" you can find in almost any grocery store around the world. These include how such foods are cultivated, how they're labeled and sold, and how they're prepared and consumed.
5.
The Fallacy That Natural Is Always Better
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17.
Myths about Acupuncture's Past and Benefits
Acupuncture has recently received a great deal of attention but has yet to be convincingly proven to be medically effective beyond nonspecific placebo effects. In this lecture, take a closer look at the practice's Eastern and Western origins, its medical claims, its false potential as a form of anesthesia, and more.
17.
Myths about Acupuncture's Past and Benefits
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6.
Probiotics and Our Bacterial Friends
There are billions of bacteria around and inside your body—and some of them are actually beneficial to your health. Explore the truths behind probiotics: what they are, whether they help with issues like tooth decay and irritable bowel syndrome, and the future possibilities of genetically engineered bacteria.
6.
Probiotics and Our Bacterial Friends
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18.
Myths about Magnets, Microwaves, Cell Phones
The idea of using electromagnetism to heal has been around for centuries. Investigate how magnetic fields in objects like microwaves and cell phones work on our bodies, how healing is attempted through devices such as bracelets and pads, and how research shows that this curious form of medicine is scientifically unsound.
18.
Myths about Magnets, Microwaves, Cell Phones
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7.
Sugar and Hyperactivity
It's commonly believed that large amounts of sugar lead to hyperactivity in children. But is that really the case? Debunk common misconceptions about the effects of sugar, food additives, and food allergies on children's behavior, and learn more about what may sometimes be the true culprit: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
7.
Sugar and Hyperactivity
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19.
All about Hypnosis
When you hear the word "hypnosis," odds are you're thinking about the trance-like states you see on stage and TV. But does it have actual medical benefits? Here, delve into the neuroscience of hypnosis and examine truths about its clinical uses in dealing with memory loss, sleep disorders, chronic pain, and more.
19.
All about Hypnosis
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8.
Antioxidants—Hype versus Reality
Another popular medical subject is antioxidants: substances in "superfoods" such as green tea that stabilize oxygen-free radicals. Discover what scientists have found about the potential for antioxidants to treat diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, to prevent cancer and heart disease, and to promote longevity and lifelong health.
8.
Antioxidants—Hype versus Reality
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20.
Myths about Coma and Consciousness
What are the different levels of consciousness one can have in a coma? Is it truly possible to just wake up from a coma? Can people know that others are present while comatose? Movies and stories in the media perpetuate our confusion about comas and consciousness. Separate myth from reality here.
20.
Myths about Coma and Consciousness
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9.
The Common Cold
Finally put to bed the popular myths about one of the most common illnesses: a cold. You've heard the stories about not going out in cold weather, eating chicken soup, washing your hands, and taking over-the-counter medicine. Now, discover what science says about what works and what doesn't.
9.
The Common Cold
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21.
What Placebos Can and Cannot Do
Myths about placebos are "gateway myths"—meaning they often lead to many other medical misconceptions and half-truths. By understanding how placebos are defined, how they are administered, and what their different effects can be, you can better grasp whether they really make for an effective form of medicine.
21.
What Placebos Can and Cannot Do
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10.
Vaccination Benefits—How Well Vaccines Work
Vaccines are perhaps the single safest and most effective preventive health measure ever devised. In the first of two lectures on this subject, learn the history of vaccination, what types of vaccines doctors use to stave off specific diseases, and why some people still question whether this technique works.
10.
Vaccination Benefits—How Well Vaccines Work
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22.
Myths about Pregnancy
Carrying a baby low while pregnant means it's a boy. Never eat fish or drink caffeine while pregnant. Intercourse every 48 hours will increase your chances of conception. A whirlwind of misinformation surrounds the subject of pregnancy. Unpack many of the most common—and popular—myths in this lecture.
22.
Myths about Pregnancy
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11.
Vaccination Risks—Real and Imagined
Focus now on myths surrounding the safety of vaccines—including the mumps-measles-rubella (MMR) vaccine and its false link to autism in children. Because of the unwarranted fear and confusion among parents, this particular myth has led to decreased vaccination rates and the reemergence of serious infectious diseases.
11.
Vaccination Risks—Real and Imagined
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23.
Medical Myths from around the World
Get a broader perspective on medical misinformation with this tour of myths from around the world, including South Korea (where sleeping with an electric fan on is thought to be deadly), parts of Africa (where it's believed that intercourse with a virgin can cure HIV infection), and Japan (where some believe personality is tied to blood type).
23.
Medical Myths from around the World
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12.
Antibiotics, Germs, and Hygiene
Infection remains a serious problem for our species, despite our well-developed immune systems. After learning about different bacteria and other invasive organisms, delve into some half-truths about antibiotic resistance and good hygiene. End the lecture with the answer to an intriguing question: Can you be too clean?
12.
Antibiotics, Germs, and Hygiene
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24.
Roundup—Decluttering Our Mental Closet
Finish the course with a brief survey of "mini-myths," including that body heat is mostly lost through your head, that cracking your knuckles causes arthritis, and that eating turkey makes you sleepy. Afterward, take a moment to ponder the benefits of knowing how to sort through misconceptions and hype.
24.
Roundup—Decluttering Our Mental Closet
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