Neuroanatomy

Discussion will cover both lobes of the brain and specific regions within those lobes.
Content will extend beyond introductory psychology, delving into functionally specific regions referenced in Nancy Kanwisher's TED Talk.

Revised schedule posted to Canvas on Friday:
- Neuropharmacology took longer than anticipated, concluding on Friday.
- This week’s focus is solely neuroanatomy, condensed into three classes.
- Topics will include:
  - Hypothalamus and hormone secretion.
  - Neuroanatomy terminology.
  - Central versus peripheral nervous system.
  - MRI and fMRI in studying brain regions.
  - Sensory and motor cortices (discussion on phantom limb syndrome).
Assignments:
- Quiz 3 initially scheduled for Wednesday is now pushed back.
- Homework Question 11 due Wednesday; Question 12 and Quiz 3 due Friday.
- Resource list project to be worked on independently, potential time for delegation.

Terminology in Neuroanatomy: Introduction to anatomical terms to understand brain region naming conventions.
Divisions of the Nervous System:
- Central Nervous System (CNS): Comprised of brain and spinal cord, encased by bone.
- Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves extending from spinal cord to the body. These nerves can regenerate to a degree.
- Somatic vs. Autonomic Systems:
  - Somatic: Controls voluntary movements (e.g., skeletal muscles).
  - Autonomic: Manages involuntary functions (e.g., heart rate, digestion).
    - Subdivided into:
      - Sympathetic: Activates fight or flight response.
      - Parasympathetic: Calms the body, utilizes GABA as an inhibitory neurotransmitter.

Anatomical Terms:
- Rostral (Anterior): Front.
- Caudal (Posterior): Tail, back.
- Dorsal (Superior): Top (e.g., dorsal fin on a dolphin).
- Ventral (Inferior): Bottom.
- Medial: Closer to the center.
- Lateral: Towards the outside.
Importance of understanding these terms in relation to brain structures, e.g., dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dorsal-lateral area of the prefrontal cortex).

Sensory and Motor Cortices: Responsible for sending and receiving messages from the body.
Phantom Limb Syndrome: Pain sensation in amputated limbs; underscores brain's adaptability.

Current study focuses on adults' number cognition using EEG.
Participants must be able to remain still for approximately 30 minutes without a history of seizures.
EEG cap worn during tasks captures brain's electrical activity without interpreting thought content.
Compensation offered for participation: $10 Amazon gift card. Sign-up available via QR code link to Calendly.

Description of the nervous system and its structure.
The CNS (Brain and Spinal Cord) protected by bone vs. PNS comprising nerves throughout the body.
Regenerative Properties: Limited ability for peripheral nerves to heal.

Further elaboration on the autonomic division:
- Sympathetic System: Activates arousal and response to stress.
- Parasympathetic System: Supports relaxation and restoration, primarily through GABA signaling.

Reflex Actions: Automatically respond to stimuli. Example: knee-jerk reflex, which can occasionally be controlled by voluntary muscle tension.
Damage to sensory perceiving systems can result in abnormal perceptual experiences (e.g., sensing a series of separate images instead of fluid motion).
Important interactions between different layers of the neurological system (CNS and the PNS).

Components of the human brain include the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem. Each plays significant roles in high-level cognitive functions, motor control, and autonomic life functions respectively.
Cerebral Cortex: Outer layer, densely packed with neuronal cell bodies (gray matter).
White Matter: Inner layer, consisting of myelinated axons providing communication between brain regions.
Ventricles: Fluid-filled structures producing cerebrospinal fluid essential for nutrient delivery.

Broca's Area and Wernicke's Area: Key regions for language processing.
Functional Specificity: Different brain parts have distinct roles, evidenced by studies of individuals with brain injuries (e.g., split-brain patients).
Facial Recognition: Specific neural areas, such as the fusiform face area highlighted in Kanwisher's talk.

The presentation will continue to cover more specific aspects of the lobes of the brain in relation to perception and cognitive functioning.
Importance of studying the intricate connections and functionalities of various brain regions leading to a deeper understanding of behavior, cognition, and sensory experiences.