...INTERNET ACTIVITY NEUROTRANSMISSION AND THE NERVOUS SYSTEM Use the Internet to answer the questions associated with this activity. Go to Google and type in “Neurotransmitters” Click on the link “Neurotransmitters for Kids” Click on the Explore tab on the left side. You will use page to locate the links to each activity. 1) Go to Neuroscience Methods and Techniques and use the glossary of neuroscience words to describe how the following terms are applied to the neurotransmission process: A) Neurotransmitters— B) Synapse— C) Depolarization— 2) Go the The Neuron and click on Gallery of Neurons and look at the various microscopic images of these pictures which show how neurons look under a microscope. Tell which is your favorite. 3) Under the same heading, go to “Lights, Camera, Action Potential” and answer the following questions: A) What is the term that is mentioned that describes an electrically charged chemical? B) Is the electrical current polarized or depolarized during the action potential? 4) Go the “Higher” Functions and click on “Smart Drugs?.” Read through this page that includes information about the possibility that drugs may someday be used to help with memory and thinking processes. Answer these questions: A) What is your opinion about the possibility that chemicals could actually change our thinking and learning capabilities? (for this one, be sure to read what the research...
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...It has long been speculated that there is a relationship between exercise and it’s effects on mental health. However, it has not been until recent years that evidence has shown that exercise indeed has a profound benefit on brain function. Studies show that humans and animals that are engaged in regular physical activity have an improvement in learning and memory, protection of overall mental health, and also suggest that an active and healthy lifestyle may help in reversing the effects and causes of depression. One of the most intreresting changes caused by exercise is Neurogenesis, or the creation of new neurons. New neurons are created in the hippocampus, however the exact process behind this neurogenesis is still unknown. It is possible that stresses caused by exercise result in a spike in calcium in neural cell, which, in turn, causes hippocampal neurons to run through a cell building process. This cell building process activates the BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) gene, which creates BDNF proteins that aid the process of neurogenesis. Thus it is shown that BDNF is generated as a protective response to stress, as it acts not only to generate new neurons, but also to protect existing neurons. (Cotman, Berchtold & Christie, 2007) However, BDNFs do more than protect, they also repair. For example, in a comparison between sedentary and active mice, scientists found that mice which were generally more active rebuilt damaged brain tissue more efficiently than sedentary...
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...experience our interactions with them, and with other people, in the future, yet the precise roles that different memory systems play in these processes have yet to be elucidated. Short-term memory involves a temporary synaptic modification, presumably consisting of transient alterations in the concentration, binding, or uptake of various neuro transmitter substances. Short-term synaptic enhancement refers to a model of such short-term memory processes, and it suggests a way that neurochemical activity might briefly maintain memories by modifying the synapse for brief periods of time. The mechanisms mediating STE appear to occur primarily in the presynaptic neuron, perhaps involving an increased number of synaptic vesicles releasing neurotransmitter substance into the cleft in response to an action...
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...Exercise 6: Cardiovascular Physiology: Activity 4: Examining the Effects of Chemical Modifiers on Heart Rate Lab Report Pre-lab Quiz Results You scored 100% by answering 4 out of 4 questions correctly. 1. The parasympathetic nervous system releases __________ to affect heart rate. You correctly answered: d. acetylcholine 2. A cholinergic drug that worked the same as acetylcholine would You correctly answered: c. be an agonist and decrease heart rate. 3. Norepinephrine affects the heart rate by You correctly answered: a. increasing the rate of depolarization and increasing the frequency of action potentials. 4. The __________ receptor binds norepinephrine and epinephrine. You correctly answered: b. ß-1 adrenergic 03/02/13 page 1 Experiment Results Predict Question: Predict Question 1: Pilocarpine is a cholinergic drug, an acetylcholine agonist. Predict the effect that pilocarpine will have on heart rate. Your answer : b. Pilocarpine will decrease heart rate. Predict Question 2: Atropine is another cholinergic drug, an acetylcholine antagonist. Predict the effect that atropine will have on heart rate. Your answer : a. Atropine will increase heart rate. Stop & Think Questions: Which of the following is true of epinephrine? You correctly answered: c. It increases the heart rate and mimics the sympathetic nervous system. The final chemical modifier we will look at is digitalis (also known as digoxin and digitoxin and derived from the foxglove plant). Individuals with weakened...
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...Outline and evaluate biological explanations of depression. 8 + 16 marks One biological explanation of depression is genes. This suggests that depression is inherited. Research shows that individuals with a depressed relative (parent/sibling) are 1.5. to 3 times more likely to develop depression than those without a depressed relative. Twin studies show a concordance rate of 46% for MZ (identical) compared with 20% for DZ (non-identical) twins. This suggests that genes have a role in whether people develop depression or not. However, concordance rates are never 100% for identical twins so this suggests that genes can’t be a full explanation because MZ twins share 100% of their genes and so if genes were the only cause of depression there would be a 100% concordance. This means that there must be other factors involved for example environmental ones such as upbringing and interaction with parents and family members. Higher concordance rates for MZ twins could be explained by the fact that being identical, they are more likely to share a more similar life experience than non-identical twins. It makes sense to take a mixed approach; the diathesis-stress model shows how there can be a genetic predisposition, which is triggered by environmental cues such as life experience. Research has shown that women who were genetically predisposed to depression (had an identical twin suffering with depression) were more likely to develop depressive symptoms when faced with negative life experiences...
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...Gabriel Test 1 Study Guide (Topics and Concepts) for Chapter 1 and 2: Chapter 1 * Define psychology Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes * Identify and explain psychology’s four primary goals.description, explanation, prediction, influence * Understand the meaning of a theory a theory organizes facts systematically and guides scientific reaserach * **Compare and contrast basic and applied research Basic research is to seek new knowledge and expore and advance scientific understanding. Applied research is to solve practical problems and improve the quality of life * Compare and contrast naturalistic and laboratory observations, case studies and survey research, including their advantages and limitations. Naturalistic Observation – where reasearchers observe behavior in its natural setting without attempting to influence or control it. It allows study of behavior in normal settings but you have to wait for things to happen and observer bias distrots observations. Laboratory Observation- Studying behavior in a labortatory, Reasearchers have more control and use morepresise equipment to measure responses but they lose sontaneirt that occurs when behaviours take place in a more natural setting Case study – an in depth study of one or a few participants consisting of info gathered through observations, interviews and psychological testing. Good for studying people who have uncommon psychological or physiological disorders or brain...
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...controller of behavior. For centuries, scientists and philosophers have been infatuated by the brain, but until recently the brain has been viewed as perplexing. Now, however, the brain is beginning to show its secrets. Scientists have learned more about the brain in the last few years than in all previous centuries because of the accelerating pace of research in neurological and behavioral science and the development of new research techniques. The brain is like a committee of experts. All the parts of the brain work together, but each part has its own special properties. Biological causes of clinical depression continue to be studied extensively. Great progress has been made in the understanding of brain function, the influence of neurotransmitters, and other biological processes, as well as how they may relate to the development of depression. Depression or anxiety causes individuals to have many changes in their behaviors. They tend to become isolated from their family, friends, or be social. Their eating patterns lead to either weight gain or loss; and sleeping patterns change where they either do not sleep or sleep excessively. They become agitated, irritable, and fatigue or have lack of energy. Biological psychology aims at finding the biological factor of depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, (SSRI) have had a major impact on the field of biological psychology because it is the most commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of depression and other...
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...Physiological Effects of Caffeine: (Note that the doses of caffeine required to produce such effects, and the severity of those effects, varies between individuals.) CARDIOVASCULAR (-) Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor and stimulant. (-) Caffeine often increases blood pressure by contracting the heart and blood vessels in non-habitual users. Effects usually subside after 3 – 4 h. (-) Caffeine changes the electro-physiological activity of the heart, increasing conductivity, even in limited doses. (-) Heavy caffeine consumption raises (by about 2 mmol/L)the plasma levels of homocystine, a risk factor for heart disease. (-) Caffeine raises plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine levels in non-habitual users. (-) Coffee intake may raise serum cholesterol levels. Intakes of 5+ cups of unfiltered have been shown to raise cholesterol levels by 0.5 – 1.0 mmol/L (20 – 40 mg/dL). GASTROINTESTINAL (-) Caffeine stimulates gastric secretion. Some individuals are sensitive to caffeine and suffer ill effects such as acid indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, gas or constipation to varying degrees. (-) Coffee can cause emesis (vomiting) (-) Caffeine inhibits vassopressin, it acts as a powerful diuretic (it increases urination.) (-) Liver metabolism is effected by methylxanthines such as caffeine. It increases the levels of cyclic AMP and decreases the level of branched chain and aromatic amino acids in plasma. MUSCULAR/SKELETAL (-) Caffeine can mobilize calcium from cells and may lead...
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...cells growth and core functions. Dendrites are branches off the outer edges of the soma. Their role is to receive messages or neurotransmitters from other neurons. The axon is a wire that extends from the soma; it sends outgoing messages to the terminal buttons (small knot like structures at the ends of the axon). Terminal buttons store...
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...Little-Known Causes of Depression There are many well-known depression triggers: Trauma, grief, financial troubles, and unemployment are just a few. But if we are depressed and none of these apply to us, it can be hard to pinpoint a specific cause. In truth, there may not be a concrete reason for depression. But here are some little-known causes to consider. * Poor sleep habits It's no surprise that sleep deprivation can lead to irritability, but it could also increase the risk of depression. A 2007 study found that when healthy participants were deprived of sleep, they had greater brain activity after viewing upsetting images than their well-rested counterparts, which is similar to the reaction that depressed patients have, noted one of the study authors. If we don't sleep, we don't have time to replenish [brain cells], the brain stops functioning well, and one of the many factors that could lead to is depression. * Face book overload Spending too much time in chat rooms and on social-networking sites is a very harmful activity especially for youngsters. A number of studies now suggest that this can be associated with depression, particularly in teens and preteens. Internet addicts may struggle with real-life human interaction and a lack of companionship, and they may have an unrealistic view of the world. Some experts even call it "Face book depression." In a 2010 study, researchers found that about 1.2% of people ages 16 to 51 spent an inordinate amount...
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...SSCI206-DB2 Neurotransmitters are chemical signals that facilitate communication between neurons in the brain through the transmission of nerve impulses across the synapse. There are different types of neurotransmitters, each with a different function. The three categories of neurotransmitters are amino acids, monoamines and peptides. Neurons are nerve fibers that transmit signals to other neurons but neurons do not touch but instead the signal travels across a space known as the synapse (Purves, 2001). The neurotransmitter is the chemical that allows the nerve impulses or signals to be transmitted across the synapse. Dopamine controls voluntary movements in the body and endorphins relieve pain and stress. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood or elevates feelings of anxiety while acetylcholine stimulates the muscles (Bora, 2011). When neurotransmitters do not communicate properly if can directly impact the mood of the individual. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that controls important activities in the brain, such as memory and learning. Repressed levels of acetylcholine result in Alzheimer’s while decreased dopamine levels have been connected to Parkinson’s disease. Research has shown that on studies on the brains with people with Alzheimer's disease have substantially lower levels of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine activates motor neurons in the brain and regulating attention, arousal, and memory. When there are lowered levels of acetylcholine...
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...10 Major Neurotransmitters Neurotransmitters are powerful chemicals that regulate numerous physical and emotional processes such as mental performance, emotional states and pain response. Virtually all functions in life are controlled by neurotransmitters. They are the brain's chemical messengers.Interactions between neurotransmitters, hormones, and the brain chemicals have a profound influence on overall health and well-being. When our concentration and focus is good, we feel more directed, motivated, and vibrant. Unfortunately, if neurotransmitter levels are inadequate these energizing and motivating signals are absent and we feel more stressed, sluggish, and out-of-control. Effects: Control the appetite center of the brain Stimulates Corticotropin Releasing Factor, Adrenalcorticotropic Hormone, & Cortisol Regulate male and female sex hormone Regulates sleep Modulate mood and thought processes Controls ability to focus, concentrate, and remember things The Mind Body Connection The chemistry of our bodies can alter, and be altered by our every thought and feeling. Our bodies and our minds are truly interconnected, the health of one depends on the health of the other. Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Disrupted communication between the brain and the body can have serious effects to ones health both physically and mentally. Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders are thought to be directly related to imbalances with neurotransmitters. The four major...
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...Biological Influences Neurotransmitters are a special chemical stored in vesicles in the terminal buttons. These buttons are located at the end of the axons. The neurotransmitters are released into the tiny spaces between the neurons called synapse. They carry signals from neuron to the dendrites of the next receiving neuron. (Davis & Palladino, pg 53). The effects of this action can vary depending on the neurotransmitter type and the location of the synapse. Two different outcomes can come out of this. One effect would be the neuron that receives the neurotransmitter might transmit the message to other neurons, which is called excitation. Or, the other effect would be that the neuron receiving the neurotransmitter becomes unlikely to transmit the message to other neurons, which is referred to as inhibition. This can have different effects on the body. Neurotransmitters actually impact our moods, aggression, motor skills, memory, and our sleeping behaviors. Too much or too little of particular neurotransmitters can play havoc with a persons health, and can cause a number of common illnesses. Acetylcholine was the first neurotransmitter to be discovered. It was found to control the activity with in the areas of the brain that relate to learning, memory, and attention. Acetylcholine also works within the junction of various nerves and skeletal muscles. (Davis & Palladino, pg.55). The muscles in our lungs that keep us breathing would be paralyzed without acetylcholine...
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...arkinson's Disease: Is It All In the Brain? :: 6 Works Cited :: 6 Sources Cited Length: 1098 words (3.1 double-spaced pages) Rating: Red (FREE) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Parkinson's Disease: Is It All In the Brain? "When I should go lay down on the couch, but I know that I will never find a comfortable position, so if I'm to be uncomfortable, it may as well be here, in front of this gently glowing screen. I feel the last of last night's meds burn away in my throat and then the dreaded "heebie-jeebies" come" (6). Parkinson's disease otherwise named the "shaking palsy" in 1817 by James Parkinson affects 50,000 Americans every year. The risk of the disease is higher amongst men giving them twice risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to women (5). It is not clear why men are more prone to getting the disease, but it may be related to them not having the female hormone estrogen. (5). The general population that is at risk for developing Parkinson's disease are people older than fifty (1,5).The disease is related to a motor system disorder that cause the patient's hands, legs, jaw, face, and arms to tremor. Parkinson's disease may also cause bradykinesia (slowness of movement) as well as a loss of balance, and a difficulty in doing ordinary daily activities such as walking, talking, eating, and writing (1,2,5). How does this disease then affect the I-Function? If we already have all of our learned capabilities...
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...What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s disease is a chronic progressive movement disorder (Parkinson’s disease foundation, 2012). Symptoms continue and worsen over time(Parkinson’s disease foundation, 2012). The cause is unknown and there is no cure (Parkinson’s disease foundation, 2012). With medications and sometimes surgery people who have Parkinson’s disease can control symptoms. Parkinson’s disease is when nerve cells called neurons malfunction and die, these cells produce the chemical dopamine that sends signals to the brain that control movement and coordination. As Parkinson’s progress the body is producing less dopamine which causes less control over movement and coordination (Parkinson’s disease foundation, 2012). Symptoms include tremors of the hands/arms/ legs/ jaw/face, slowness of movement, stiffness of limbs/trunk, and impaired balance/coordination (Parkinson’s disease foundation, 2012). There is no known cause, genetic and environmental have come to play with this disease but no confirmation can be made. Each person progresses differently with this disease. Medications are available for Parkinson’s disease. Not one has been found to reverse the effects of Parkinson’s disease yet (Parkinson’s disease foundation, 2012). More than one medication is given; varying doses and times for decrease in symptoms. Some medications used are Carbidopa/Levodopa therapy, Dopamine agonists, Anticholinergics, MAO-B inhibitors, and others. Each individual...
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