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The parasympathetic nervous system is a division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for conserving energy and promoting 'rest-and-digest' activities. It counterbalances the sympathetic nervous system's 'fight-or-flight' response by slowing the heart rate, increasing intestinal activity, and relaxing sphincter muscles.
Concept
Cranial nerves are twelve paired nerves that emerge directly from the brain and brainstem, controlling motor and sensory functions of the head and neck. They play crucial roles in vision, taste, smell, hearing, and facial sensations, as well as autonomic functions like heart rate and digestion.
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The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a critical component of the peripheral nervous system responsible for regulating involuntary physiological functions, including heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and reflexes. It operates through two main divisions, the sympathetic and paraSympathetic Nervous Systems, which work in tandem to maintain homeostasis and respond to stressors.
Concept
The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network linking the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and influencing behavior, mood, and cognition. This complex interaction involves neural, hormonal, and immunological pathways, with gut microbiota being a significant modulator of these processes.
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Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of the variation in time between each heartbeat, reflecting the heart's ability to respond to a variety of physiological and environmental stimuli. It is an important indicator of autonomic nervous system function and overall cardiovascular health, with higher variability generally signifying better adaptability and resilience.
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Neurotransmission is the process by which signaling molecules called neurotransmitters are released by a neuron to transmit signals to a target cell across a synapse. This intricate communication system is essential for various brain functions, including mood regulation, cognition, and motor control.
Concept
Vagal tone refers to the activity of the vagus nerve, which regulates the parasympathetic nervous system and influences heart rate variability, digestion, and emotional regulation. High Vagal tone is associated with better physical and mental health, as it enhances the body's ability to respond to stress and maintain homeostasis.
Concept
Homeostasis is the physiological process by which biological systems maintain stability and equilibrium in response to changing external conditions. It is essential for the survival of organisms, enabling them to regulate internal environments such as temperature, pH, and ion concentrations to ensure optimal functioning.
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The inflammatory response is the body's immediate reaction to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, aimed at eliminating harmful stimuli and initiating healing. It involves a complex cascade of events that includes the activation of immune cells, release of cytokines, and increased blood flow to the affected area.
Concept
Brain-gut communication refers to the bidirectional signaling between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and influencing mood and behavior. This communication is mediated through neural, endocrine, and immune pathways, highlighting its complexity and importance in health and disease.
The upper esophageal sphincter (UES) is a critical muscular valve that controls the passage of food and liquids from the pharynx into the esophagus, preventing aspiration into the airway. Its function is regulated by complex neural mechanisms and is essential for safe swallowing and protecting the respiratory tract.
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