Deck 17: Extension: B - Cortical Networks and Disconnection Syndromes

Question 1

What do discussions regarding disconnecting cognitive functions conclude about the concept of localization of function within the brain?

Answer 1

Although it is clear there are some localized regions of functioning, there is considerable overlap. It is likely that several neural networks work in concert to carry out most functions-at least to a large degree.

Question 2

How would Liepmann account for apraxia of the left hand only? (Hint: a diagram may prove useful.)

Answer 2

When given a verbal command, the left-hemisphere language regions would comprehend the command and then need to "send" the information to the right-hemisphere motor region. If the corpus callosum were severed, this message would not be sent to the right hemisphere and subsequently would not be able to initiate the motor behavior.

Question 3

Compare the verbal naming responses of commissurotomy patients with visual stimuli flashed to the left - and right - visual fields.

Answer 3

The surgery will isolate speech, such that the dominant (typically left) hemisphere will be able to speak while the nondominant hemisphere cannot. Following the recovery period, however, each hemisphere will be able to function independently, each with their own sensory and language function

Question 4

Use the following to answer questions:
Technical vocabulary is important in understanding neuropsychology articles. Show your skill by matching each technical term with the correct alternative from the list below.
anosmia ___

A)lack of sense of smell
B)inability to make coordinated voluntary movements
C)difficulty copying geometric designs
D)inability to read

Question 5

Use the following to answer questions:
For each researcher listed, choose the MOST appropriate alternative from the list below.
Sperry ___

A)constructed animal models of disconnection syndromes
B)hypothetized conduction aphasia
C)studied "split-brain" patients
D)defined disconnection syndromes

Question 6

Use the following to answer questions:
Technical vocabulary is important in understanding neuropsychology articles. Show your skill by matching each technical term with the correct alternative from the list below.
apraxia ___

A)lack of sense of smell
B)inability to make coordinated voluntary movements
C)difficulty copying geometric designs
D)inability to read

Question 7

Use the following to answer questions:
For each researcher listed, choose the MOST appropriate alternative from the list below.
Wernicke ___

A)constructed animal models of disconnection syndromes
B)hypothetized conduction aphasia
C)studied "split-brain" patients
D)defined disconnection syndromes

Question 8

Discuss the ability of a blindfolded commissurotomy patient to verbally identify three - dimensional objects placed into either the left or right hand.

Question 9

Use the following to answer questions:
Technical vocabulary is important in understanding neuropsychology articles. Show your skill by matching each technical term with the correct alternative from the list below.
acopia ___

A)lack of sense of smell
B)inability to make coordinated voluntary movements
C)difficulty copying geometric designs
D)inability to read

Question 10

Use the following to answer questions:
For each researcher listed, choose the MOST appropriate alternative from the list below.
Mishkin ___

A)constructed animal models of disconnection syndromes
B)hypothetized conduction aphasia
C)studied "split-brain" patients
D)defined disconnection syndromes

Question 11

Identify the three major types of fiber pathways found in the neocortex.

Question 12

What is meant by the term topographic with respect to callosal organization?

Question 13

Speculate in an informed manner as to why the corpus callosum evolved. (Not all mammals have one, by the way-marsupials do not have a corpus callosum.)

Question 14

Describe the three general classes of projections of corpus callosal fibers.

Question 15

Use the following to answer questions:
For each researcher listed, choose the MOST appropriate alternative from the list below.
Geschwind ___

A)constructed animal models of disconnection syndromes
B)hypothetized conduction aphasia
C)studied "split-brain" patients
D)defined disconnection syndromes

Question 16

What is the "zipper hypothesis"?

Question 17

Use the following to answer questions:
Technical vocabulary is important in understanding neuropsychology articles. Show your skill by matching each technical term with the correct alternative from the list below.
alexia ___

A)lack of sense of smell
B)inability to make coordinated voluntary movements
C)difficulty copying geometric designs
D)inability to read

Question 18

Explain the effects of early musical training on brain connectivity.

Question 19

Could one reproduce Downer's experiment with commissurotomy patients? If no, why not?

Question 20

What is the therapeutic value of the severing of commissures in the treatment of epilepsy?

Question 21

Why do individuals with agenesis of the corpus callosum show fewer and milder cognitive deficits than commissurotomy patients?

Question 22

How would an individual with agenesis of the corpus callosum respond to requests to verbally name odors presented to left and right nostril? Justify your answer.

Question 23

Explain why a split - brain patient will have difficulty copying a geometric design with his right hand.

Question 24

What is the proposed relationship between disconnection syndromes and the phenomenon of contralateral neglect?

Question 25

Why do the authors suggest that disconnection hypotheses are applicable in brain dysfunction?