BRAIN - MY DEMAND

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In return of taking care of you, I m piggishly demanding. I represent only 2 % of your body weight, I require 20 % of the oxygen you inhales and a fifth of the blood your heart pumps. I am utterly dependent on a constant supply. Let the supply be cut off for a few minutes and I suffer grave damage - paralysis or death may result. I also demand a steady supply of nourishment - glucose. Even in situations of acute starvation, I get first call on any available, for without me you would die.

In many respects, I am like a vast, unexplored continent, with little more known than the rough outlines of the shore. But the researchers who are attempting to map me have come up with some fascinating information. For example, although all pain is felt in me, I myself have no pain sensation even when I am cut. Thus, brain surgery is performed with the patient wide awake, allowing the brain explorers to stimulate specific areas of me electrically and observe the response. If you ever undergoes such surgery, you will be amazed at what can happen. A tickle of electricity in one place and you might see a long-forgotten third grade teacher.