A newborn baby is admitted to the neonatal intensive care un…
A newborn baby is admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit with labored breathing, grunting, and cyanosis (bluish skin color). The infant was born prematurely at 30 weeks of gestation. A chest X-ray shows underinflated lungs, and the diagnosis of Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome (IRDS) is made. Question:Using your understanding from “Pulmonary Surfactant: Alveoli’s Secreted Weapon,” explain the following: What causes IRDS and why it is common in premature infants. The role of pulmonary surfactant in preventing alveolar collapse, including the relationship between water’s cohesive forces and alveolar structure. How DPPC (dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine) functions at the molecular level to reduce surface tension. Current treatment options for IRDS and how they help improve survival.
Read DetailsDuring normal quiet breathing, the pressure difference (ΔP)…
During normal quiet breathing, the pressure difference (ΔP) between the atmosphere and the alveoli is about 1 mmHg, and the airway resistance (R) is 1.5 cm H₂O·s/L. During an asthma attack, airway constriction increases the resistance to 6.5 cm H₂O·s/L, while the same pressure difference (ΔP = 1 mmHg) is maintained by the respiratory muscles. F = ∆P/R 1 mmHg=1.36 cm H₂O 1.Calculate the airflow (F) during normal breathing. 2.Calculate the airflow during the asthma attack. 3.What happens to the airflow?
Read DetailsIn class we learned that in upper limb amputees, sensory sti…
In class we learned that in upper limb amputees, sensory stimuli applied to the face may evoke activity in the somatosensory cortical area for the missing limb, such that when the face is touched, there are evoked sensations in the phantom limb. Which of the following is true about this phenomenon?
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