NeuroScience: Structures, Systems, Scans Flashcards
amygdala [uh-MIG-duh-la]
two lima-bean-sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.
thalamus [THAL-uh-muss]
the brain’s sensory control center, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.
cerebellum [sehr-uh-BELL-um]
the “little brain” at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input, coordinating movement output and balance, and enabling nonverbal learning and memory.
fMRI (functional MRI)
a technique for revealing blood flow and, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans. fMRI scans show brain function as well as structure.
lesion [LEE-zhuhn]
tissue destruction. A brain lesion is a naturally or experimentally caused destruction of brain tissue.
medulla [muh-DUL-uh]
the base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.
hypothalamus [hi-po-THAL-uh-muss]
a neural structure in the limbic system lying below (hypo) the thalamus; it directs several maintenance activities (eating, drinking, body temperature), helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward.
reticular formation
a nerve network that travels through the brainstem into the thalamus; filters information and plays an important role in controlling arousal.
limbic system
neural system (including the amygdala, hypothalamus, and hippocampus) located below the cerebral hemispheres; associated with emotions and drives.
brainstem
the oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions.
hippocampus
a neural center located in the limbic system; helps process explicit (conscious) memories—of facts and events—for storage.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
a technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue. MRI scans show brain anatomy.
two lima-bean-sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.
amygdala [uh-MIG-duh-la]
the brain’s sensory control center, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.
thalamus [THAL-uh-muss]
the “little brain” at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input, coordinating movement output and balance, and enabling nonverbal learning and memory.
cerebellum [sehr-uh-BELL-um]
