Answer to Question 1
Speech-language pathologists and auditory specialists are particularly interested in the areas of sensory function that are connected with hearing and vestibular function. When there is a failure of sensory systems, the nervous system loses the valuable information that it needs to function properly. A loss of hearing during the prenatal period of life can retard the development of speech and language. Severe problems with communication may arise when hearing loss occurs following the prenatal period. Vestibular dysfunction can cause vertigo and serious problems with balance. Meniere's disease (endolymphatic hydrops) is an example of a disorder associated with vestibular dysfunction.
Answer to Question 2
The four lobes of the brain that control cognitive and sensory functions are the (1 ) frontal lobe, which is essential for cognitive function, contains the speech center, and predominates in planning, as well as the initiation and inhibition of voluntary motion; (2 ) parietal lobe, which is responsible for receiving somatic (body) sense; (3 ) temporal lobe, which is a vitally important site for auditory and language reception and processing; and (4 ) occipital lobe, which is the region that receives visual stimulation and also processes higher level visual data.
An example of modification of a structure for a new function
The “Old Man” from La Chapelle shows evidence of extensive tooth loss and bone resorption.
With input from sensory neurons, activation of the reticular activating system causes arousal of the ...
Sensory receptor synapses with first-order sensory neuron
Periodic Function
Quadratic Function on a Banana