Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
To pinpoint and locate mental awareness is not so easy. We know
that the prefrontal cortex (modern brain) just above the eyes is defi-
nitely involved, but consciousness is usually the result of the interac-
tion between many areas. Some areas of the basic brain (thalamus
and the brain stem) are absolutely necessary to create consciousness
and consciousness is needed to have alertness. As long as routine
tasks are done (for example, cycling), a fixed group of brain areas
takes care of a task, and no conscious interference is needed. Even
complex tasks, like driving a car, can be done fully nonconsciously.
As soon as risks are perceived, the brain perceives this task as more
dangerous and will mobilize more brain areas just to make sure that
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Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland. This center is smaller
than a pea and is located on the backside of the thalamus in the center
of the brain. It is part of the basic brain. Melatonin is a hormone that
prepares the body for the night. It cools down body temperature and
lowers energy consumption. Receptor cells in the retina report the
amount of sunlight, influencing the activity of the pineal gland. As
soon as it gets dark, the pineal gland becomes more active. This gland
can be fooled by tubular light with a bluish tone, faking sunlight. For
those who suffer from jetlag after a night shift, a food supplement of
3 mg melatonin can compensate for the lack of natural melatonin due
to staying up late. Always consult a general practitioner before using
this kind of supplement.
An active brain needs an active body. The higher the frequency of
the brain, the more energy it needs, the more supplies like sugar and
oxygen have to be transported in the blood. Good blood pressure, rich
blood, and wide veins are needed. High mental alertness will always be
