Behavioral Neuroscience: Final Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms from the behavioral neuroscience lecture notes, aiding in exam preparation.

What is the mind-brain problem?

The debate about the relationship and distinction between mental processes and brain activity.

What are three key points to remember from this text?

1. The definitions and roles of neurons and glia. 2. The distinctions between action potentials and electrical transmission. 3. The influence of genetic and environmental factors on behavior.

What are the physiological, ontogenetic, evolutionary, and functional explanations of behavior?

Physiological: Biological basis of behavior; Ontogenetic: Developmental aspects; Evolutionary: Adaptive significance; Functional: Purpose of behavior.

What ethical issues are raised by research with laboratory animals?

Considerations regarding the welfare and humane treatment of animals in experimental settings.

Describe the structure and function of neurons and glia.

Neurons transmit signals within the nervous system, while glia provide support, nourishment, and protection.

What is the difference between axons and dendrites?

Axons transmit signals away from the neuron, while dendrites receive incoming signals from other neurons.

How does the blood-brain barrier relate to neurons?

It protects neurons from harmful substances in the bloodstream while allowing essential nutrients to pass.

What chemicals are necessary for brain nutrition?

Oxygen, glucose, and certain ions like sodium and potassium.

What is the role of bacteria in the intestines?

They help digest food, synthesize vitamins, and maintain gut health.

What are action potentials?

Rapid changes in membrane potential that propagate along axons.

What causes a neuron's resting potential?

The distribution of ions across the cell membrane, primarily sodium and potassium.

How do sodium and potassium ions contribute to action potentials?

Sodium influx causes depolarization leading to an action potential, while potassium efflux aids in recovery.

What is the all-or-none law of the action potential?

An action potential occurs fully once the threshold is reached, not partially.

How does the action potential propagate along the axon?

It triggers adjacent segments of the membrane to depolarize, leading to sequential activation.

What is the refractory period?

A period post-action potential during which a neuron cannot fire again immediately.

What is the function of the myelin sheath?

To insulate axons and speed up action potential propagation.

Describe the major properties of synapses as inferred by Charles Sherrington.

Properties include the delay of transmission, summation of signals, and the importance of inhibition.

What are EPSPs and IPSPs?

EPSPs (excitatory postsynaptic potentials) increase the likelihood of a neuron firing; IPSPs (inhibitory postsynaptic potentials) decrease it.

What sequence of events occurs at a synapse?

Synthesis of neurotransmitters, release into synaptic cleft, binding to receptors, and removal of molecules.

What is the difference between ionotropic and metabotropic receptors?

Ionotropic receptors are directly linked to ion channels, while metabotropic receptors act through secondary messengers.

How can certain drugs affect behavior at synapses?

They can enhance or inhibit neurotransmitter action, altering mood or cognitive functions.

What are the four lobes of the cerebral cortex and their principal functions?

Frontal (decision making, movement), Parietal (sensory processing), Temporal (auditory processing), Occipital (visual processing).

What is the binding problem?

The challenge of how different brain areas combine information to create a unified perception.

What types of evidence do researchers use to infer heritability?

Twin studies, family studies, and adoption studies.

Why does heritability vary among populations?

Differences in environmental factors and genetic diversity within populations.

Describe the early development of the brain.

Involves the formation of neural tubes, followed by differentiation into various brain structures.

What is apoptosis?

The process of programmed cell death, and neurotrophins prevent it by supporting neuron survival.

What is the significance of experiences altering brain anatomy and function?

It shows the brain's plasticity and ability to adapt based on learning and environmental changes.

What are possible explanations for the functions of sleep?

Restoration of cognitive function, consolidation of memory, and maintenance of physiological balance.

Discuss the genetic and environmental contributors to substance abuse.

Genetic predispositions may influence susceptibility, while environmental factors like social setting affect accessibility and behavior.

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning.

Describe the role of the amygdala in emotional processing.

It is crucial for processing emotions such as fear and anxiety.

What is the role of the suprachiasmatic nucleus?

It regulates circadian rhythms, controlling sleep and wakefulness patterns.