Ch.12 CNS

Introduction to the Nervous System

• The nervous system is divided into two primary components: muscles/glands and the central nervous system (CNS), which consists of the brain and spinal cord.

• The brain is a highly complex organ, capable of surprising phenomena such as people returning from a state of brain death.

Complexity of the Brain

• Understanding brain functionality is challenging, particularly the effects of stimuli on mental health, including depression and recovery through techniques like electrical brain stimulation.

• The term "centralization" refers to the developmental process through which the CNS evolves and adapts over time, reflecting changes in cognitive and sensory perception.

Intelligence and Neuronal Connections

• Human intelligence is largely dependent on the strength and number of neuronal connections formed throughout life.

• Making and maintaining neuronal connections enhance cognitive abilities, but they can also result in dysfunctional connections affecting social relationships.

Cerebrospinal Fluid and Alcohol

• Alcohol consumption negatively impacts cerebrospinal fluid levels, which are crucial for brain function and protection. Excessive drinking can compromise the fluid's integrity, leading to potential brain damage.

Embryonic Development of the CNS

• The brain and spinal cord begin as a neural tube during embryonic development, highlighting the process of transformation into the complex structure of the CNS.

• Development involves coordination between the skull, which is hard tissue, and the growing soft tissue of the brain, leading to the presence of fontanels (soft spots) in infants to accommodate rapid growth.

Structure and Function of the Brain

• The adult human brain generally weighs about three pounds, with size differences noted between genders; men typically have larger brains, but women's brains demonstrate higher complexity.

• The brain's surface is characterized by folds (gyri and sulci) that help it fit within the skull while maximizing functional connectivity.

• Each region of the brain has specific roles, such as controlling sight and emotions, emphasizing the interaction between sensory experience and emotional processing.

The Temporal Lobe

• The temporal lobe is unique as it connects with all other lobes, signifying its integrative role in sensory processing and emotional responses.

• The average individual checks their phone numerous times within short intervals, showcasing how visual stimuli can influence emotional states.

Neuronal Activity and Memory

• Different brain areas, such as the singular gyrus and hippocampus, are vital for memory storage and recall, linking past experiences with present behaviors and emotional reactions.

• Differences in emotional processing between genders are attributed to the greater complexity of certain brain regions in women, which may contribute to a wider range of emotional experiences.

Development and Experiences

• Relationships and experiences shape brain responses and emotional triggers, leading to heightened awareness of potential "red flags" based on past interactions.

• The unique sound of familiar packages, like that of Doritos chips, can evoke specific memories and emotions, illustrating the connection between auditory cues and sensory memory.

Conclusion

• Overall, understanding the nervous system's structure and functions emphasizes the significance of experiential learning and the deep interconnection between sensory perception, emotion, and cognition.