Neuroscience Short Answers Flashcards
What were the Invasive Techniques of Neuroscience in the Past?
Activating areas of the brain through electricity, chemicals, heat, cold - behaviour observed.
How does MRI Work?
Magnetic field over head, H molecule reverberations picked up by scanner, examined for differences, 3D picture created.
How does EEG Work?
Detects electrical currents generated by neurons on brain surface by affixing metal electrodes to scalp.
What is N400?
Linked with language processing - elicited in sentences where last word is surprising but linguistically legal.
How does FMRI Work?
Changes in magnetic fields detected in blood to show fast changing aspects of brain physiology.
How does TMS Work?
Creates temporary brain dysfunction - magnetic pulses on scalp causes disruption below area.
What does Development of Nervous System Look like after 3 Weeks?
Thickening on top of embryo, neural tube formed.
What does Development of Nervous System Look like after 1 Month?
3 thickenings develop into hindbrain, forebrain, midbrain.
What does the Central Nervous System Include?
Brain and spinal cord.
What does the Peripheral Nervous System Include?
Somatic and autonomic systems.
What is the Function of Afferent Nerves?
Transmit information from sense organs to brain and spinal cord.
What is the Function of Efferent Nerves?
Transmit information from CNS to effectors.
What are the 3 Functions of the Cranial Nerves?
Control movements of sensations from head and neck, regulate glandular secretions in head, control visceral functions.
How many Neurons are in the Brain?
10 to 100 billion.
What are the Different Sides of the Brain Used for?
Right = Spatial awareness Left = Language
How does the Cortex Affect Behaviour?
Large cortex = flexibility of behaviour.
What is the Function of the Basal Ganglia?
Regulation and smoothing of movement, beside thalamus.
What is the Function of Primary Areas of the Cortex?
Basic sensory input and motor output.
What is the Function of Association Areas of the Cortex?
Elaboration or “higher functions”.
How is Cortical Space Allocated in the Primary Motor Area?
Based on preciseness of movement.
How is Cortical Space Allocated in the Primary Sensory Areas?
Most sensitive parts of body receive more cortical space.
How is Hemiplegia Caused?
Damage to contralateral motor cortex.