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Chapter 1: Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Overview

• Introduction to key vocabulary and principles of anatomy and physiology.

• Emphasis on the scientific method:

  • Hypothesis: Proposed explanation for observations.

  • Experiments: Tests to validate the hypothesis.

  • Data Collection and Analysis: Systematic gathering and examination of data.

  • Conclusion: Interpretation of data in support or rejection of the hypothesis.

Key Definitions

• Fact: A statement that is irrefutable by any conclusion.

• Theory: A collection of scientifically verified facts that explain a broader process.

Levels of Organization of the Human Body

• Human body is structured in levels, helping to understand complexity ranging from atoms to the whole organism.

Anatomic Position

• Standard reference for anatomical terms:

  • Standing upright

  • Feet shoulder-width apart

  • Head and palms facing forward

Directional Terms

Regional Terms

• Cranial: Relating to the skull.

• Cervical: Neck region.

• Thoracic: Chest region.

• Abdominal: Region of abdomen.

• Pelvic: Lower part of trunk.

• Femoral: Relating to the thigh.

• Popliteal: Back of knee.

Body Planes

• Midsagittal Plane: Divides body into equal left and right halves.

• Frontal Plane: Divides the body into anterior and posterior sections.

• Transverse Plane: Divides body into superior and inferior parts.

Body Cavities

• Dorsal Body Cavity: Includes:

  • Cranial cavity (contains brain)

  • Spinal cavity (contains spinal cord)

• Ventral Body Cavity: Includes:

  • Thoracic cavity (contains lungs and heart)

  • Abdominopelvic cavity (contains digestive organs)

Core Physiological Principles

1. Homeostasis: Maintenance of stable internal environment.

   • Negative Feedback Loops: Oppose change and regulate specific variables at set points.

   • Positive Feedback Loops: Amplify responses to elicit stronger reactions, often in emergencies.

   • Both feedback types are essential for maintaining homeostasis.

2. Structure-Function Relationships: Understanding that structure influences function.

3. Physiological Gradients: Variation in concentration or pressure that drives processes.

4. Cell-Cell Communication: Interaction between cells to coordinate functions within the body.