Exam 2: Section 1: Neuroscience and Behavior

Define and give an example of an antagonist drug.

How do sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons differ?

Describe phrenology and explain the contribution it has made to the understanding of the brain.

Li is an avid runner. Despite her busy lifestyle, Li runs at least 50 miles a week, even in the winter months. When asked why running is such a high priority, Li explains that she loves experiencing a "runner's high." Explain what this concept means.

What is the primary motor cortex? What is the degree of representation on the primary motor cortex?

Byron is left handed. His parents have told Byron that his handedness means he is right- hemisphere-dominant. Are Byron's parents correct?

Explain how the hypothalamus, endocrine system, and nervous system are linked. How does the hypothalamus contribute to the functioning of the endocrine glands?

How does information transmission in the endocrine system differ from that in the nervous system?

Who was Roger Sperry and what contributions did he make to the understanding of the human brain?

Briefly describe the functions of the different subdivisions of the peripheral nervous system.

What is meant by the phrase lateralization of function?

What are spinal reflexes? Are they important?

Define and give an example of an agonist drug.

Describe the functions of glial cells, as well as the microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and Schwann cells.

Explain the difference between structural plasticity and functional plasticity. Give an example of each.

What is the refractory period, and what takes place during that period?

What is biological psychology and why is this area of study important?

Julian is 50 years old. He played football for over 20 years, starting in middle school. After college, he played semi-pro football until he injured his knee, which required multiple surgeries to repair. Over the course of his football career, Julian sustained repeated concussions. Julian's family has noticed that he has become increasingly anxious and depressed over the past few years. Although he was never impulsive before, Julian now gambles and goes on spending sprees-sometimes buying items that he will never use. He has difficulty remembering important dates, complains that he can't concentrate, and he becomes angry when distracted as he struggles to sustain his attention for more than a few minutes. According to the In Focus Box: Traumatic Brain Injury: From Concussions to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, what condition does Julian likely have? Will his doctor be able to diagnose the condition at his next physical? Why or why not?