Important Info

Publisher: McGraw Hill, 2023
Authors: Sylvia S. Mader (noted for accessible science writing) & Michael Windelspecht (expert in digital learning and science communication)
Structure: 25 chapters organized into 7 units, covering everything from basic biology to human evolution and ecology
Digital Integration: Includes SmartBook® 2.0, Connect platform, virtual labs, BioNOW videos, and Ricochet Science resources
Focus Areas: Relevance to current issues (e.g., COVID-19, climate change, CRISPR), diversity in science, and accessibility

Characteristics of Life: Organization, metabolism, homeostasis, responsiveness, reproduction, evolution
Scientific Method: Observation → Hypothesis → Experiment → Data → Conclusion → Peer Review
Chemistry of Life:
- Key elements: C, H, O, N (90% of body)
- Molecules: Ionic, covalent, hydrogen bonds
- Water: High heat capacity, solvent properties, cohesion, pH scale
- Organic molecules: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids

Cell Theory: All life is cellular; cells arise from preexisting cells
Cell Types: Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic
Organelles: Nucleus, ER, Golgi, lysosomes, mitochondria, cytoskeleton
Transport Mechanisms: Diffusion, osmosis, active transport (e.g., Na⁺/K⁺ pump), endocytosis, exocytosis
Tissue Types:
- Connective: Fibrous, cartilage, bone, blood, lymph
- Muscular: Skeletal, cardiac, smooth
- Nervous: Neurons, neuroglia
- Epithelial: Simple, stratified, glandular

Systems Covered: Cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, nervous, endocrine, reproductive
Homeostasis: Maintained via feedback loops (e.g., temperature, blood pressure)
Key Concepts:
- Blood composition and function
- Heart anatomy and cardiac cycle
- Gas exchange and lung function
- Nutrient absorption and metabolism
- Hormonal regulation and reproduction

Immune System:
- Innate: Barriers, inflammation, complement
- Adaptive: B cells (antibodies), T cells (cytotoxic/helper)
- Acquired: Vaccines, passive immunity
Pathogens:
- Bacteria, viruses, prions
- Global diseases: HIV/AIDS, TB, malaria, influenza, COVID-19