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Ch. 49 - Nervous Systems
Chapter 49, Problem 6

Injury localized to the hypothalamus would most likely disrupt a. regulation of body temperature. b. short-term memory. c. executive functions, such as decision making. d. sorting of sensory information.

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1
Identify the primary functions of the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a small region at the base of the brain that plays a crucial role in many important functions, including releasing hormones, regulating body temperature, and maintaining daily physiological cycles.
Analyze the options given in the question to see which function is directly related to the hypothalamus. Option (a) mentions regulation of body temperature, which is a known function of the hypothalamus.
Eliminate the options that are not primarily functions of the hypothalamus. Options (b) short-term memory, (c) executive functions, and (d) sorting of sensory information are more closely associated with other parts of the brain like the hippocampus and the cerebral cortex.
Conclude that injury to the hypothalamus would most likely disrupt the regulation of body temperature, as this is a direct function of the hypothalamus.
Select the correct answer based on the analysis: a. regulation of body temperature.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hypothalamus Function

The hypothalamus is a small but crucial brain region that regulates various autonomic functions, including body temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms. It acts as a control center, maintaining homeostasis by responding to internal and external stimuli. Damage to the hypothalamus can lead to significant disruptions in these regulatory processes.
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Body Temperature Regulation

Body temperature regulation is a vital homeostatic process managed by the hypothalamus. It involves mechanisms such as sweating, shivering, and altering blood flow to maintain a stable internal temperature despite external changes. Disruption in this regulation can lead to conditions like hyperthermia or hypothermia, highlighting the hypothalamus's role in thermoregulation.
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Neuroanatomy and Brain Functions

Understanding neuroanatomy is essential for grasping how different brain regions contribute to specific functions. The hypothalamus is primarily involved in autonomic and endocrine functions, while areas like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex are responsible for memory and executive functions, respectively. This distinction is crucial for identifying the effects of localized brain injuries.
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