U1AOS4 Neuroplasticity

Question 1

Neuroplasticity

Answer 1

The ability of the brain and other parts of the nervous system to change in response to experience

Question 2

Long-term potentiation

Answer 2

Strengthening of synaptic connections as a result of repeated activation

Question 3

Long term depression

Answer 3

Weakening of synaptic connections as a result of repeated low-level activation of certain synaptic connections

Question 4

Adaptive plasticity

Answer 4

Neuroplasticity in response to a need to adapt, such as a response to brain trauma and injury

Question 5

Developmental plasticity

Answer 5

In response to ageing and the learning associated with maturation

Question 6

Developmental plasticity brain changes

Answer 6

1. Synaptogenesis
2. Synaptic pruning
3. Myelinatipn

Question 7

Synaptogenesis

Answer 7

Formation of synapses between neuron’s as axon terminals and dendrites grow and get bushier

Question 8

Synaptic pruning

Answer 8

Where underused synapses are eliminated through pruning, in order to make room for new synapses or the strengthening of frequently used synapses

Question 9

Myelination

Answer 9

Formation and development of myelin around the axon of a neuron to protect the neuron from interference from other neurons

Question 10

Adaptive plasticity changes

Answer 10

• sprouting
• rerouting

Question 11

Sprouting

Answer 11

The ability of a neuron to develop new branches on the dendrites or axons enabling new neural connections to be formed

Question 12

Rerouting

Answer 12

A neurons ability to break free from a damaged neuron and form a new connection with another undamaged neuron

Question 13

Critical periods

Answer 13

If certain functions are not acquired during these periods they may never develop or may not be fully functional

Question 14

Sensitive periods

Answer 14

Optimal developmental period for a specific function or skill to be learnt in the fastest and easiest way

Question 15

ABI

Answer 15

An acquired brain injury refers to all types of brain injuries that occur after birth

Question 16

Traumatic brain injuries

Answer 16

Damage to the brain caused by an external force, eg. falls. Assaults and sports injuries

Question 17

Non-traumatic brain injuries

Answer 17

Damage to the brain caused by internal factors, such a a lack of oxygen or a tumour

Question 18

Impact of ABI on biological functioning

Answer 18

1. Seizures- can even occur years later
2. Movement impairment- paralysis
3. Small impairment- AKA olfaction

Question 19

Impact of ABI on psychological functioning

Answer 19

1. Memory loss
2. Personality changes
3. Increased susceptibility to mental health disorders

Question 20

Impact of ABI on social functioning

Answer 20

1. Job productivity
2. Social support- changes in relations
3. Antisocial behaviour

Question 21

What does CTE stand for

Answer 21

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Question 22

CTE

Answer 22

CTE occurs often in older athletes who have been retired for some time and have suffered repeated concussions

Question 23

Symptoms of CTE

Answer 23

• memory loss
• behavioural changes
• anxiety
• paranoia
• mood changes

Question 24

Diagnosing CTE

Answer 24

• can only be confirmed through an autopsy
• build up of p-tau protein which creates neurofibrillary tangles in the neuron

Question 25

Preventing CTE

Answer 25

Wearing helmets and proper rest and recovery after concussion