This series brings alive the incredible world of human anatomy to high school students designed to supplement your school’s biology curriculum. Each DVD comes complete with printable PDFs of study guides, worksheets, and an annotated script explaining interesting shots along with the location and circumstances involved in capturing them. Chapter search enabled.THE NERVOUS SYSTEM: Neurons, Networks and the Human Brain
Begins by examining the structure and function of neurons; resting, action and post-synaptic potentials; and reflexes and neural networks. The peripheral, somatic, autonomic, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are introduced before looking at the central nervous system. After describing spinal cord structure and function the program then examines the human brain including the medula, pons, and cerebellum of the hindbrain; the recticular formation of the midbrain; and the thalamus, limbic system and cerebral cortex of the forebrain. 39 minutes
THE IMMUNOLOGICAL SYSTEM: Recognition, Attack, and Memory
Starts by looking at external barriers to microbial attack such as the skin and mucus membranes and non-specific internal defenses such as macrophages, natural killer cells, and the inflammatory response. Then delves into the immune response including the recognition of invaders by antibodies and T-cell receptors, the destruction of invaders by antibodies and cytotoxic T-cells, and the immunity conferred by memory cells. A discussion of how vaccinations work and current AIDS research concludes the program. 33 minutes
THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM: Molecular Messengers, Chemical Control
First looks at the chemical structure of various hormones, the hormone receptors found on target cells, and the feedback mechanisms that regulate hormone levels. After explaining the difference between exocrine and endocrine glands the program then looks at the various endocrine glands and organs including: the hypothalamus; the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal glands; the pancreas, testes and ovaries; and organs such as the thymus, kidneys, stomach, small intestine and heart that produce hormones. 32 minutes
RESPIRATION AND CIRCULATION: Gas Exchange, Molecular Transport
Looks at the flow of air through the conducting portions of the respiratory system to the alveoli before examining: the role of hemoglobin in gas exchange and O2 and CO2 transport in the blood; the operation of the respiratory control center; and the mechanics of breathing. Then investigates the composition of blood and how it flows through the heart, arteries, capillaries and veins before looking at the role of the lymphatic system in fighting infection, transporting fats, and returning interstitial fluid to the blood. 35 minutes
DIGESTION AND EXCRETION: Absorption, Excretion, and Homeostasis
First examines the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food that occurs in the mouth and stomach before looking at digestion and absorption in the small intestine and the enzymes and other chemicals secreted by the liver, gall bladder, and pancreas that aid in the process. Then looks at the synthesis of vitamins by bacteria in the large intestine and then goes on to explore the complex structures in the kidney that allow them to filter wastes out of the blood while returning water and nutrients. 30 minutes
MUSCULAR, SKELETAL, AND INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM: Defining Our Form
Begins by introducing the dermis and epidermis of the skin; the sweat and sebaceous glands; and the skins role in protecting against microbial invasion, ultra-violet radiation and in producing vitamin D. Then looks in-depth at the structure and function of skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle before looking at the structure of cartilage and bone and the skeletal systems role in protecting vital organs, producing blood cells, storing nutrients and in conjunction with the muscular system, producing movement. 28 minutes
*These DVDs are chaptered and contain a Guide for each program