vital function

Examples of vital function in the following topics:

• Functions of the Diencephalon

  • Distinct parts of diencephalon perform numerous vital functions, from regulating wakefulness to controlling the autonomic nervous system.
  • The hypothalamus performs numerous vital functions (e.g., regulation of certain metabolic processes), most of which relate directly or indirectly to the regulation of visceral activities by way of other brain regions and the autonomic nervous system.
  • The epithalamus functions as a connection between the limbic system and other parts of the brain.
  • Some functions of its components include the secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland (involved in circadian rhythms) and regulation of motor pathways and emotions.

• Divisions of the Autonomic Nervous System

  • Example functions of the SNS include diverting blood flow away from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and increasing heart rate.
  • Sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions typically function in opposition to each other.
  • The sympathetic division typically functions in actions requiring quick responses.
  • The parasympathetic division functions with actions that do not require immediate reaction.
  • More generally, these two systems should be seen as permanently modulating vital functions, in usually antagonistic fashion, to achieve homeostasis.

• Nutrition and Health

  • Cells rely on nutrients in food to function properly.
  • In order to function properly, the human body must meet specific caloric and nutritional needs.
  • These molecules are broken down into essential amino acids and fatty acids and used as fuel for cellular functions.
  • Although it is often vilified, fat serves a vital function in the body, serving as stored energy, protecting organs, and helping to regulate body temperature.
  • Chronic malnourishment prevents healthy growth and impairs vital body functions; this leads to physical health problems and, eventually, death.

• Functions of the Brain Stem

  • The brainstem regulates vital cardiac and respiratory functions and acts as a vehicle for sensory information.
  • Diseases of the brainstem can result in abnormalities in cranial nerve function, leading to visual and hearing disturbances, changes in sensation, muscle weakness, vertigo, coordination problems, swallowing and speech difficulty, and voice changes.
  • The brain stem also plays an important role in the regulation of cardiac and respiratory function.
  • The brainstem has many basic functions, including regulation of heart rate, breathing, sleeping, and eating.
  • The brainstem also has integrative functions, including cardiovascular system control, respiratory control, pain sensitivity control, alertness, awareness, and consciousness.

• Signaling Molecules and Cellular Receptors

  • As with people, it is vital for individual cells to be able to interact with their environment.
  • The ability to send messages quickly and efficiently enables cells to coordinate and fine-tune their functions.
  • The efficient and error-free function of communication systems is vital for all forms of life.

• Executive Function and Control

  • The executive system is a theoretical cognitive system that manages the processes of executive function.
  • The major frontal structures involved in executive function are:
  • Executive-function development corresponds to the development of the growing brain; as the processing capacity of the frontal lobes (and other interconnected regions) increases, the core executive functions emerge.
  • In adolescence, these functions all become better integrated as they continue developing.
  • The different parts of the prefrontal cortex are vital to executive function.

• Liver Function

  • The liver is thought to be responsible for up to 500 separate functions.
  • The various functions of the liver are carried out by the liver cells or hepatocytes.
  • Currently, there is no artificial organ or device capable of emulating all the functions of the liver.
  • However, the overstressed liver of an alcoholic may become clogged with fats, adversely affecting liver function.
  • The liver, hepar, is a vital organ present in vertebratesand some other animals.

• Lung Capacity and Volume

  • Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) may be used to help diagnose different pulmonary diseases.
  • The two most often used measurements are FVC (forced vital capacity) and FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second).
  • Vital Capacity (VC) is the maximum amount of air that a person can exhale after inhaling as much air as possible.
  • The most widely used diagnostic application for lung capacities is the ratio between forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC).
  • Differentiate among tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, expiratory reserve volume, and vital capacity of lungs

• Sodium, Electrolytes, and Fluid Balance

  • Electrolytes play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis within the body.
  • Electrolytes play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis within the body.
  • They help regulate myocardial and neurological function, fluid balance, oxygen delivery, acid-base balance, and other biological processes.

• Limbic System

  • The limbic system makes up the inner border of the cortex and is vital for emotion, motivation, and memory.
  • It includes the hippocampus, amygdala, anterior thalamic nuclei, septum, limbic cortex, and fornix, and supports a variety of functions including emotion, behavior, motivation, long-term memory, and olfaction.
  • The limbic system consists of various structures that each support distinctive brain functions.
  • Amygdala: Involved in signaling the cortex of motivationally-significant stimuli, such as those related to reward and fear, and in social functions, such as mating.
  • Cingulate gyrus: Conducts autonomic functions regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and cognitive and attentional processing