MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

In this episode, we discuss population genetics and see how genetically related individuals share the same alleles, delving into the mechanisms of gene flow and genetic drift. We'll also unravel the complexities of hybrid vigor, reproductive isolation, and natural selection, and how these processes shape the genetic landscape of populations. 
 
We'll also touch on the fascinating dynamics of X-linked and mitochondrial inheritance, and the role of genomic imprinting in disease risk. Ever wondered how the Hardy-Weinberg equation helps us understand genetic equilibrium in populations? We've got that covered too, breaking down the assumptions and applications of this essential model. Plus, we'll delve into how allele frequencies can shift due to factors like mutations and population bottlenecks.
 
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
 
Jump into the conversation:
[00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics
[01:06] Overview of Population Genetics
[01:55] Definition of Population Genetics
[03:01] Genotype vs. Phenotype
[03:38] Example of BRCA1 Gene
[07:33] Autosomal Dominant and Recessive Inheritance Patterns
[08:40] X-Linked Inheritance Patterns
[09:38] Mitochondrial Inheritance
[10:46] Genomic Imprinting
[12:46] Complex and Multifactorial Inheritance
[13:52] Introduction to Hardy Weinberg Equation
[14:33] Assumptions of Hardy Weinberg Equation
[15:16] Historical Context of Hardy Weinberg Equation
[17:02] Calculation of Allele Frequencies
[19:18] Example Problem Using Hardy Weinberg Equation
[23:17] Limitations of Hardy Weinberg Equation
[24:07] Ways Populations Change Over Time
[24:58] Natural Selection
[27:10] Fecundity and Fertility in Natural Selection
[28:07] Types of Natural Selection
[30:00] Mutation
[32:17] Example of Mutation in HIV Research
[34:29] Genetic Drift
[38:11] Gene Flow and Gene Leakage
[40:12] Hybrid Vigor and Reproductive Isolation
[42:16]  Prepare for MCAT success with MedSchoolCoach.

Social norms and deviance as covered in the MCAT is a fascinating topic, and in this episode, we'll break down the intersection of social norms—folkways, mores, taboos, and laws—how they play a crucial role in shaping societal values, and what happens when these norms break down, a concept known as anomy. Plus, we'll delve into collective behavior phenomena such as fads, mass hysteria, moral panic, and riots, touching on some real-life examples and historical comparisons.
 
Expect a comprehensive overview, with real-world relevance and plenty of examples to help solidify your understanding. 
 
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.



Jump into the conversation:
[00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics
[04:57] Breaking social norms is not a big deal.
[09:00] Jeffrey Dahmer was a serial killer.
[12:41] Breaking social norms, deviance explained in theories.
[14:03] Biking under influence leads to deviant identity.
[19:02] Weak community ties breed crime, social disorganization theory.
[20:20] Cultural deviance theory explains lower class deviance.
[23:39] Social control theory emphasizes individual responsibility for deviance.
[26:58] Orson Welles's 1938 radio drama causes hysteria.

In this episode, we’ll nail down all that is needed for the MCATB in relation to fat and protein metabolism. Two critical processes for gaining energy and maintaining cellular functions in the body. We'll learn about the intricate details of beta-oxidation, where fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondrial matrix to produce energy-rich molecules like NADH, FADH2, and acetyl CoA.
From protein catabolism, where proteins are broken down into amino acids that feed into gluconeogenesis and ketosis pathways, to protein anabolism, where these amino acids are incorporated into new proteins. You'll get insights into the role of amino acids in synthesizing other compounds like serotonin and nucleotides.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
 
Jump into the conversation:
00:00 Introduction to MCAT Basics
01:25 Fat metabolism
02:00 Fat absorption
06:45 Breakdown of fats
08:30 Lipolysis
10:15 Transport of fatty acids
11:20 Beta oxidation pathway
13:40 Energy yield from beta-oxidation
16:00 Odd-chain and unsaturated fatty acids in beta-oxidation
20:00 Differences in energy production and pathways.
22:29 Fatty acid synthesis
25:15 Ketone body formation and usage
28:00 Protein breakdown (catabolism)
31:45 Glucogenic and ketogenic amino acids
35:00 Protein synthesis (anabolism)

In this episode, we’ll cover crucial aspects such as hormones, their origins and mechanisms of action, and the various structures within the endocrine system. We'll also decode complex cell-to-cell communication and distinguish between different hormone types—peptide, protein, steroid, and lipid-derived.
 
Furthermore, we'll explore key endocrine disorders like diabetes and hyper- and hypogonadism, discussing their causes, symptoms, and relevance to the MCAT. In addition, we'll touch upon the functions and hormones of several glands, including the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and pancreas.
 
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
 
Jump into the conversation:
00:00 Introduction to the MCAT Basics Podcast with host, Sam Smith
03:34 Exosomes act as information carriers for cells.
09:00 Large, charged substances dissolve in blood easily.
10:30 Protein kinase A activates multiple molecules quickly.
15:57 Podcast discusses prostaglandin, thromboxins, leukotrienes and glands.
18:22 Hormones explained: flat peg and pineal gland.
23:15 Endocrine diseases: hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, hyperinhypogonadism, diabetes.
26:33 Autoimmune disorder characterized by overactive thyroid production.
29:28 Hypothalamus role in hormone production and disorders.
34:01 Type 1 diabetes: Genetic and environmental factors.
35:47 Diagnosis and causes of type two diabetes.
39:18 Med School Coach elevates your application level.

This episode is packed with essential high-yield information for your MCAT prep, covering the biological, physiological, and psychological aspects of sleep. We’ll explore various sleep theories, like the Memory Consolidation and Brain Plasicticity Theories, and even discuss the controversial “Sleeping When You Die” theory. We’ll also delve into dream theories, including Freud’s interpretations and the Activation Synthesys Hypothesis. Plus, we’ll address common sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy, alongside the effects of different drugs on your sleep patterns. 
 
We’ll cover critical brain structures involved in sleep, such as the hypothalamus and the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and break down the stages of sleep measured through EEG, EMG, and EOG. 
 
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
 
[00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics podcast with host, Sam Smith
[04:05] Pineal gland, amygdala, basal forebrain in sleep.
[07:40] Measuring postsynaptic potential, not action potentials. EEG waves distinguish sleep stages. EMG records muscle electrical activity.
[10:46] Alpha waves awake, theta waves asleep. Hallucinations in stage N1 sleep.
[15:01] Unconfirmed sleepwalking. Stages of sleep explained.
[18:18] Sleep cycles lengthen REM stage, diagrams illustrate.
[19:50] We don't remember all our dreams.
[23:55] Shifting circadian rhythms due to changes in light.
[29:10] Blind people's melatonin release entrained with light.
[29:41] Cortisol secretion cycle follows a circadian rhythm.
[35:09] Freud: Dreams represent unconscious desires; manifest vs latent.
[38:53] Divorce dreams related to spouse thinking time. Broad sleep disorder categories: insomnia, breathing, hypersomnolence.
[41:18] Hypersomnia, narcolepsy, drugs' impact on sleep.
[44:14 Brief primer on drug effects on sleep.