Tag: physiology
- Reproductive System ()
The major function of the reproductive system is to ensure survival of the species. Other systems in the body, such as the endocrine and urinary systems, work continuously to maintain homeostasis for survival of the individual. An individual may live a long, healthy, and happy life without producing offspring, but if the species is to […]
- The Effects of Acidosis on Cells & Tissue ()
The measurement of pH, which is short for the potential of hydrogen ion concentration, is an important concept in chemistry that measures the acidity level of a solution. Since biological systems need a healthy balance between factors in which to operate, any changes to the pH level can disrupt living systems. pH measures the potential […]
- Even More Threats To Perfusion ()
Peripheral Vascular Resistance Peripheral vascular resistance (systemic vascular resistance, SVR) is the resistance in the circulatory system that is used to create blood pressure, the flow of blood and is also a component of cardiac function. When blood vessels constrict (vasoconstriction) this leads to an increase in SVR. When blood vessels dilate (vasodilation), this leads […]
- More Threats To Perfusion ()
Ventilation To Perfusion (Q/V) Mismatch One of the major roles of the lungs is to facilitate gas exchange between the circulatory system and the external environment. The lungs are composed of branching airways that terminate in respiratory bronchioles and alveoli, which participate in gas exchange. Most bronchioles and large airways are part of the conducting zone […]
- How The Body Controls Blood Glucose ()
In order to ensure normal body function, the human body is dependent on a tight control of its blood glucose levels. This is accomplished by a highly sophisticated network of various hormones and neuropeptides released mainly from the brain, pancreas, liver, intestine as well as adipose and muscle tissue. Within this network, the pancreas represents […]
- The Adrenal Glands ()
The adrenal medulla is the core of the adrenal gland, and is surrounded by the adrenal cortex. Secretion of hormones from the medulla is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. The cells of the medulla are the body’s main source of the hormones adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine). These hormones are part of the response initiated by the sympathetic nervous system. […]
- The Pancreas ()
The pancreas is both an exocrine gland as it secretes pancreatic juice containing digestive enzymes, and an endocrine gland as it produces several important hormones. It is located just below and behind the stomach. The endocrine cells of the pancreas are grouped together in areas called islets of Langerhans. The islets produce the amino acid-based hormones insulin, glucagon, […]
- The Endocrine System ()
The endocrine system, along with the nervous system, functions in the regulation of body activities. The nervous system acts through electrical impulses and neurotransmitters to cause muscle contraction and glandular secretion. The effect is of short duration, measured in seconds, and localized. The endocrine system acts through chemical messengers called hormones that influence growth, development, […]
- The Digestive System – Accessory Organs ()
The salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas are not part of the digestive tract, but they have a role in digestive activities and are considered accessory organs. Three pairs of major salivary glands (parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands) and numerous smaller ones secrete saliva into the oral cavity, where it is mixed with food during […]
- Structure of the Digestive System – The Alimentary Canal ()
At its simplest, the digestive system is a tube running from mouth to anus. Its chief goal is to break down huge macromolecules (proteins, fats and starch), which cannot be absorbed intact, into smaller molecules (amino acids, fatty acids and glucose) that can be absorbed across the wall of the tube, and into the circulatory […]