Physiology and Cells

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Questions and Answers

Which branch of physiology focuses primarily on the study of the nervous system's functions?

  • Respiratory physiology
  • Renal physiology
  • Neurophysiology (correct)
  • Cardiovascular physiology

At what level of organization would a collection of organs working together to perform a specific function be classified?

  • Cellular
  • Tissue
  • Organ system (correct)
  • Organ

What is the primary role of the plasma membrane in a cell?

  • To control the cell's genetic material
  • To generate energy for the cell
  • To provide a selective barrier between the cell and its environment (correct)
  • To synthesize proteins

The hydrophilic portion of a phospholipid molecule is attracted to:

<p>Water (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of membrane protein binds to specific molecules and triggers a change in cellular activity?

<p>Receptors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a transporter protein found in the plasma membrane?

<p>To selectively move substances across the membrane (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cellular component encompasses all the contents within a cell, excluding the nucleus?

<p>Cytoplasm (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the levels of organization in the body, which of the following represents the correct order from simplest to most complex?

<p>Chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, system, organism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Epithelial cells exhibit distinct surface specializations. Which of the following correctly pairs a surface of an epithelial cell with its primary function?

<p>Apical surface: Facing the body surface. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following scenarios would stratified epithelium be most advantageous compared to simple epithelium?

<p>Lining of the skin to protect against mechanical abrasion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is examining a tissue sample under a microscope and observes a single layer of rectangular cells with cilia. Which type of epithelium is the researcher most likely observing?

<p>Simple columnar epithelium. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of epithelial cell is specialized for secretion and commonly found in glands such as the thyroid?

<p>Cuboidal. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the endothelium, which is a specialized type of simple squamous epithelium?

<p>Facilitating rapid diffusion and filtration in blood and lymph vessels. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the primary role of lysosomes within a cell?

<p>Digesting cellular waste and breaking down macromolecules. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher observes a cell actively secreting a large quantity of protein. Which organelle would likely be prominent and well-developed in this cell?

<p>Golgi Complex (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a cell were unable to produce microtubules, which of the following functions would be most directly affected?

<p>Movement of organelles within the cell. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of tissue is characterized by tightly packed cells arranged in continuous sheets and primarily functions in protection, secretion, and absorption?

<p>Epithelial Tissue (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During embryonic development, the mesoderm gives rise to which of the following tissue types?

<p>All connective tissue and most muscle tissues. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cytoskeletal element is most directly involved in maintaining the characteristic shape of a cell, such as actin in muscle cells?

<p>Microfilaments (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of epithelial tissue?

<p>Generation of force for movement (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the study of the structure and function of tissues called?

<p>Histology (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is the LEAST aligned with the goals of studying human physiology?

<p>Analyzing the chemical composition of bone tissue. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating the effects of a new drug on heart rate. Which approach would be MOST consistent with a physiological study?

<p>Examining how the drug alters the heart's electrical activity and pumping efficiency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus when studying a disease from a pathophysiological perspective?

<p>Understanding how the disease disrupts normal bodily functions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A scientist is studying how the body responds to high altitude. Which aspect aligns BEST with a physiological approach?

<p>Examining how the body adjusts oxygen delivery to tissues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activity represents the application of physiology in a clinical setting?

<p>Interpreting blood test results to diagnose a patient's condition. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the fields of anatomy and physiology complement each other in understanding the human body?

<p>Anatomy provides the structural basis, while physiology explains the functional mechanisms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is LEAST relevant when assessing the credibility of a physiology research study?

<p>The number of authors who contributed to the study. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of understanding homeostatic mechanisms in the human body?

<p>Homeostatic mechanisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is unique to cardiac muscle tissue and facilitates coordinated contractions of the heart?

<p>Intercalated discs, enhancing cell-to-cell communication and impulse transmission. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying the effect of a new drug on smooth muscle contraction. Which location would be MOST appropriate for observing the drug’s effects?

<p>The walls of the stomach. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following cell types is NOT a neuroglial cell that supports neurons?

<p>Neuron (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physiological process relies on the ability of neurons and muscle fibers to generate action potentials?

<p>Transmission of sensory information and muscle contraction. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary characteristic that distinguishes connective tissue from other tissue types?

<p>Abundant extracellular matrix. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which tissue type is responsible for transmitting electrical signals throughout the body?

<p>Nervous tissue (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of tendons, which are a type of connective tissue?

<p>To connect muscles to bones, facilitating movement. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient has a neurological disorder that affects the production of myelin, which cells are MOST likely involved?

<p>Oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which heat transfer mechanism relies on air or fluid movement to dissipate thermal energy?

<p>Convection (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamus?

<p>To process temperature signals and coordinate responses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an effector response to decreased body temperature?

<p>Constriction of cutaneous blood vessels (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the body primarily regulate temperature within the thermoneutral zone?

<p>By adjusting blood flow to the skin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the critical difference between central and peripheral thermoreceptors in thermoregulation?

<p>Central thermoreceptors are found in the CNS, while peripheral thermoreceptors are located mainly in the PNS, especially the skin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of exceeding a core body temperature of 43°C?

<p>It is typically deadly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a person's body temperature decreases, what physiological response would occur to restore homeostasis?

<p>Decreased blood flow to the skin to conserve heat. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of heat transfer through evaporation?

<p>Cooling off after exercise due to sweating (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Branches of Physiology

Different areas of study within physiology like human and cardiovascular physiology.

Levels of Organization

Hierarchy from chemical to organ systems in the body.

Tissues

Groups of similar cells that work together for a function.

Organs

Structures composed of two or more tissue types performing specialized functions.

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Organ Systems

Collections of organs that work together to perform particular tasks.

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Cell

Smallest structural and functional unit of a living organism.

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Plasma Membrane

Outer boundary of the cell, separating internal from external environments.

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Membrane Proteins Functions

Roles of proteins in the membrane include transport, receptors, and enzymes.

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Epithelial Cell Surfaces

Epithelial cells have specialized structures: apical, lateral, and basal surfaces.

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Apical Surface

The apical surface faces the body surface, cavity, lumen, or duct of epithelial cells.

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Simple Epithelium

A single layer of cells that facilitates diffusion, osmosis, filtration, secretion, or absorption.

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Pseudostratified Epithelium

Appears to have multiple layers because nuclei are at different levels; all cells do not reach the apical surface.

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Stratified Epithelium

Consists of two or more layers of cells to protect underlying tissues from wear and tear.

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Human Physiology

The scientific study of the normal functions of living organisms.

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Course Code PSL223

The identifier for the Human Physiology course offered at King Khalid University.

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Credit Hours

A measure of the time commitment required for the course, totaling 3 hours (2+1).

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Homeostatic Mechanism

Processes that maintain stable internal conditions in the body.

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Assessment Types

Different methods used to evaluate students, including MCQs, essays, and practical exams.

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Pre-requisites

Courses required before enrolling in Human Physiology, such as Basic Foundation and Biology.

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Structural Organization Levels

Levels of organization in the human body: chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, and system.

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Learning Resources

Key textbooks and references for the Human Physiology course.

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Golgi Complex

An organelle involved in packaging and processing proteins for transport.

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Lysosomes

Vesicles that contain digestive enzymes for breaking down waste materials.

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Microfilaments

The smallest fibers in the cytoskeleton providing structural support.

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Microtubules

Larger fibers in the cytoskeleton involved in movement and transport.

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Epithelial Tissue

Tissue made of closely packed cells covering body surfaces and cavities.

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Types of Tissues

Four principal types: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous.

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Germ Layers

Three primary layers (ectoderm, endoderm, mesoderm) from which tissues develop.

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Cardiac Muscle Tissue

Striated muscle that is involuntary and unique due to intercalated discs.

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Smooth Muscle Tissue

Nonstriated muscle found in walls of hollow organs, usually under involuntary control.

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Excitable Cells

Cells, such as neurons, that can initiate electrical signals in response to stimuli.

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Neurons

Nerve cells that conduct and transmit information through electrical impulses.

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Non-Excitable Cells

Supportive cells in the nervous system, such as astrocytes and microglia.

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Action Potentials

Electrical signals produced by excitable cells that propagate to cause responses.

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Connective Tissue

The most diverse tissue type, characterized by an extracellular matrix that anchors and links body structures.

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Examples of Connective Tissue

Types include bone, tendons, fat, and blood.

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Core Body Temperature

Average temperature for humans is 37º C (98.6º F).

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Hypothermia

Condition where body temperature drops below normal.

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Hyperthermia

Condition where body temperature rises excessively.

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Dangerous Temperature Range

Above 41º C is dangerous; above 43º C is deadly.

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Mechanisms of Heat Transfer

Ways the body exchanges heat: radiation, conduction, convection, evaporation.

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Thermoreceptors

Receptors that detect changes in temperature, located centrally and peripherally.

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Integrating Center

Thermoregulatory center located in the hypothalamus that processes temperature information.

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Thermoneutral Zone

Temperature range (25-30ºC) where body temperature is regulated by blood flow changes.

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Study Notes

Course Information

  • Course title and code: Human Physiology - PSL223
  • Credit hours: 3 hours (2+1)
  • Offered in: Public Health and Nursing programs
  • Prerequisites:
    • First-year Basic Foundation course
    • First-year second semester Biology course

Course Objectives

  • Identify physiological terminology
  • Understand the structural organization of the human body at chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, and system levels
  • Demonstrate understanding of the body's homeostatic mechanisms
  • Plan, perform, and interpret important physiological functions
  • Explain the pathophysiological foundations of common diseases

Course Assessment

  • Quizzes (5%): Any week before the first midterm
  • 1st Midterm Exam (15%): 7th week
  • 2nd Midterm Exam (15%): 11th week
  • Assignment (10%): 12th week
  • Practical Exam (15%): After the 15th week
  • Final Theory Exam (25%): After the 15th week

Learning Resources

  • Ross and Wilson's "Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness" 12th Edition
    • ISBN 978-0-7020-5325-2 (International)
    • ISBN 978-0-7020-5326-9
  • Arthur C. Guyton's Textbook of Medical Physiology (updated) (2010)
  • Essential Reference Materials (Journals, Reports, etc.):
    • John B.'s Respiratory Physiology (updated) (most recent edition)
    • Cecil Gray, John Nunn, and J.E. Uttering's General Anesthesia (updated) (most recent edition)

What is Physiology?

  • The scientific study of the normal functions of living organisms
  • Branches of physiology:
    • Human physiology
    • Cellular physiology
    • Cardiovascular physiology
    • Renal physiology
    • Respiratory physiology
    • Gastrointestinal physiology
    • Neurophysiology
    • Muscular physiology
    • Endocrine physiology

Levels of Organization of the Body

  • Chemical
  • Cellular
  • Tissue
  • Organ
  • System
  • Human

Organ Systems

  • Tissues: Groups of similar cells functioning together
  • Organs: Groups of tissues performing specific tasks.
    • Composed of at least two tissue types
    • Perform specific functions
  • Organ Systems are collections of organs working together to perform particular tasks.

Table 1.1 Organ Systems (See page 9)

Organization of the Body: The Cell

  • Cell: The fundamental unit of a living organism
  • Cytology: The study of cells
  • Plasma Membrane:
    • Forms the cell's outer boundary
    • Separates the cell's internal environment from the outside
    • Is a selective barrier
    • Plays a role in cellular communication
    • Consists of phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol. The phospholipids have hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.
  • Other Cellular Functions and their associated organelles: (See pages 11-24)

Cytoplasm

  • All cellular content between the plasma membrane and the nucleus
  • Cytosol: Mostly water, the fluid portion
  • Organelles: Subcellular structures with specific characteristics and functions (including nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and the cytoskeleton)

Organelles

  • Nucleus: Typically spherical or oval structure, crucial for controlling cell activities and containing hereditary units (genes)
  • Mitochondria ("powerhouses"): Possessing inner and outer membranes, and cristae, responsible for energy generation
  • Ribosomes: Involved in protein synthesis
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum: Network of membranes, involved in protein production and lipid synthesis
  • Golgi Complex: Modified and packaged proteins for transport.
  • Lysosomes: Contain enzymes for breaking down cellular components
  • Cytoskeleton: A network of proteins providing structural support and facilitating cell movement

Epithelial Tissues (See Pages 25-39)

  • Basic characteristics: Arrangement of cells in continuous sheets, closely packed
  • Functions: Protection (from physical, chemical, and dehydration damage), secretion, and absorption.
  • Types of epithelial tissues: Simple (single layers) and stratified (multiple layers); squamous (flattened), cuboidal (cube-shaped), and columnar (tall) shapes; specialized glandular tissues (endocrine - no ducts; exocrine - ducts).

Connective Tissue (See Pages 47, 48, 49)

  • Characteristics: Most diverse, composed of cells and an extracellular matrix with blood, bone, and adipose (fat) being specific types
  • Examples: Bone, tendons, fat, blood.

Muscular Tissue (See Pages 40, 41, 42, 43)

  • Characteristics: Consists of elongated cells (myocytes) used to generate force
  • Types of muscular tissues: Skeletal (voluntary, striated, attached to bones), cardiac (involuntary, striated, found in the heart), smooth (involuntary, non-striated, in hollow organs)

Nervous Tissue (See Pages 44-46)

  • Consists of excitable cells (neurons) & non-excitable cells (neuroglia)
  • Basic functions: Initiating, receiving, conducting, and transmitting information

Homeostasis (See Pages 55-69)

  • Maintaining a stable internal environment across parameters such as temperature, volume, and composition. The process employs receptors- which detect stimulus, integrating centers- which process input and output signals, and effectors- which produce body responses
  • Regulation mostly via negative feedback loops, which act in self-correcting fashion
  • Positive feedback loops lead to an amplification of deviation
  • Examples: body temperature regulation , fever process.

Body Fluid Compartments (See Pages 51-54)

  • Internal environment surrounding cells is extracellular fluid (ECF)
  • A 70 kg adult, has approximately 35-42 liters of water internally
  • Intracellular fluid (ICF) = 28 liters
  • Extracellular fluid (ECF) = 14 liters, which is subdivided into plasma (3 liters) and interstitial fluid (11 liters).

Thermoregulation (See pages 66-72)

  • Maintaining a constant internal body temperature
  • Heat transfer mechanisms:Radiation, Conduction, Evaporation (insensible water loss and sweat), Convection.
  • Receptors (thermoreceptors-central and peripheral)
  • Components (integrating center-hypothalamus, and effectors-skeletal muscles and glands), output signals (nerve impulses and/or hormones)

Thermoneutral Zone

  • Range of outside temperatures where the body maintains its core temperature via blood flow to skin, without additional thermal mechanisms. (25-30 degrees Celsius)

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