Human Anatomy, Physiology, and the Criteria of Life

Flashcards testing concepts of homeostatic temperature regulation, positive feedback in childbirth, scientific criteria of life, comparative physiology, and distinctions between anatomy and physiology based on the lecture material.

What is the set point for human core body temperature?

The set point for core body temperature is $37.0\,^\circ\text{C}$ ($98.6\,^\circ\text{F}$).

What physiological responses occur when core body temperature deviates above or below its set point?

Vasodilation and sweating occur when temperature rises above the set point, whereas vasoconstriction and shivering occur when temperature drops below the set point.

What is the proper sequence of events during positive feedback in childbirth to regain homeostasis?

1. The head of the fetus pushes against the cervix. 2. Nerve impulses from the cervix are transmitted to the brain. 3. The brain stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete oxytocin. 4. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and pushes the fetus toward the cervix.

What eight scientific criteria are used to define life?

Organization, cellular composition, metabolism, responsiveness, homeostasis, development, reproduction, and evolution.

How is organization defined as a characteristic of life, and what occurs if it cannot be maintained?

All living things exhibit organization or complexity far greater than their inanimate surroundings. The inability to maintain this organization leads to disease and death.

How is cellular composition defined as a requirement of life?

It means being made up of the simplest structures meeting the criteria of life, which is a requirement of all living things.

What is metabolism in living organisms?

Metabolism is the ability to bring in nutrients, produce energy, build necessary components, and eliminate waste products.

What processes characterize development as a criterion of life?

Development is characterized by both differentiation and growth, which explain increased size and functional complexity.

Why do species of living organisms demonstrate evolution over time?

Species demonstrate evolution over time as a result of gene mutations and their rate of success with the environment.

Which statements accurately describe the field and importance of comparative physiology?

Comparative physiology is necessary because human experimentation is limited, serves as the basis for the development of new medications and medical procedures, and explains why surgeons may practice on animals before they work on humans.

How are anatomy and physiology defined?

Anatomy is the study of form, while physiology is the study of function.

What are key anatomical facts regarding the kidneys, heart, brain, blood vessels, and organelles?

Each kidney contains approximately $6\text{ to }10$ pyramids; the human heart is comprised of four chambers; the brain is composed of two hemispheres; the brachial artery gives rise to the ulnar and radial arteries; and mitochondria are cellular organelles that are more numerous in active cells.

What are key physiological facts regarding brain fuel, heart contractions, muscle movement, energy production, and acid-base balance?

Glucose (a form of simple carbohydrate) is the necessary fuel for the brain; heart cells contract on their own via autorhythmicity; skeletal muscles contract via the sliding filament theory; cellular energy requires the body's production of ATP; and long-term acid-base balance of the body is controlled by the kidneys.