L2: Nervous system basics Flashcards
What is Neuropsychology?
The study of brain damage on the brain and how it affects behavior.
What is an EEG test?
A test that detects changes in brain waves. Can be used to detect and diagnose brain disorders.
What is a PET scan?
“Position emission tomography” is a type of scan that produces three dimensional images. It shows where issues are but is not very precise.
What is an fMRI scan?
“Functional magnetic resonance imaging” A type of scan that infers brain activity by changes in blood flow. Used in pre-surgical planning to localize brain function. More precise than a PET scan.
What is MEG?
Magnetoencephalography, a neuroimaging technique. Measures magnetic fields generated by electrical currents in the brain. It’s non-invasive and provides a precise location.
What is TMS?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation, a procedure that used magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells. Used to improve symptoms of major depression and OCD.
What is a Neuron and what is it composed of?
An information processing unit made up of Dendrites, axons and a Cell body.
What is the Neuron Doctrine?
A concept that describes the nervous system as being made up of discrete individual cells.
What is an Axon?
The conduction zone of a Neuron that conducts information via electrical activity.
What is a Dendrite?
The input zone of a Neuron, it receives information form other Neurons.
What are the 3 main components of a Synapse?
1) Pre-synaptic ending
2) Synaptic Cleft
3) post-synaptic ending
What does the Pre-synaptic ending do?
Released the Neurotransmitter.
What is the Synaptic Cleft?
The space between the pre-synaptic and post-synaptic endings.
What does the Post-synaptic ending do?
Receives and responds to neurotransmitters.
What are the 3 main types of Neurons?
1) Motoneuron
2) Sensory neuron
3) Interneuron
