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Cephalic
Relating to cranium or head.
Cephalization
Concentration of neural/sensory organs towards the body's anterior end; highest level is reached in human brain, leading to complex neural systems and intelligence.
Cerebral hemispheres
The two halves of the brain that govern thought, memory, and learning.
Brain stem
The part of the brain that connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord, controlling vital functions.
Prosencephalon
Forebrain; primary brain vesicle giving rise to telencephalon and diencephalon.
Metencephalon
Derived from the rhombencephalon; it develops into the pons and cerebellum.
Gray matter
Regions of the brain that contain neuronal cell bodies, dendrites, and synapses.
White matter
Regions of the brain containing myelinated axons which facilitate communication between different brain regions.
Sulcus
A shallow groove located between two gyri.
Gyrus
An elevated ridge-like area on the surface of the brain.
Fissure
A deep groove separating large brain areas.
Lateral ventricles
Paired C-shaped structures in the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
A clear, colorless fluid produced in the ventricles, providing protection and buoyancy to the brain.
Dura mater
The outermost layer of the meninges, protecting the brain and spinal cord.
Pia mater
The delicate innermost layer of the meninges that closely adheres to the brain and spinal cord.
Epidural space
The area between the dura mater and the vertebral bone, filled with fat and blood vessels.
Reflex arc
The neural pathway that mediates a reflex action, including a receptor, sensory neuron, integration center, motor neuron, and effector.
Autonomic nervous system (ANS)
Part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions.
Sympathetic division
Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the fight-or-flight response.
Parasympathetic division
Part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes the rest-and-digest activities.
Cholinergic fibers
Nerve fibers that release acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter.
Adrenergic fibers
Nerve fibers that release norepinephrine or epinephrine as their neurotransmitters.
Dermatome
An area of skin innervated by the sensory fibers of a single spinal nerve.
Reflex testing
A clinical examination technique used to assess the nervous system by testing reflexes.
