An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is an information processing paradigm that is
inspired by the way biological nervous systems, such as the brain, process
information. The key element of this paradigm is the novel structure of the
information processing system.
Gateway Question 2.3: Can the nervous system grow and heal itself?
Learning Objective PGAT_COON_2016_2.3.1 – Explain why the brain’s circuitry is not static by
discussing the process of neuroplasticity, including Hebb’s rule and the effects of cognitive behavior
therapy and self-directed neuroplasticity.
Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural
connections throughout life. Neuroplasticity allows the neurons (nerve cells) in the
brain to compensate for injury and disease and to adjust their activities in response to
new situations or to changes in their environment.
(Add 1,000 or more words beyond question word count of 1,468)
Learning Objective PGAT_COON_2016_2.3.2 – Explain the function of neurilemma in the
regeneration of neurons within the peripheral nervous system (PNS); identify the various techniques
scientists are now using to repair damaged neurons within the spinal cord; and describe how the
discovery of neurogenesis in adult brains is leading to new treatments and therapies.
Neurolemma (also known as neurilemma or sheath of Schwann (Schwann's Sheath))
is the outermost nucleated cytoplasmic layer of Schwann cells (also called
neurolemmocytes) that surrounds the axon of the neuron. ... Neurolemma serves a
protective function for peripheral nerve fibers.
Gateway Question 2.4: How are different parts of the brain identified and what do they do?
Learning Objective PGAT_COON_2016_2.4.1 – Describe how the techniques of dissection and the
less intrusive CT scans and MRI scans have been used to investigate brain structure.
A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken
from different angles and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images,
or slices, of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body. CT
scan images provide more detailed information than plain X-rays do.
Magnetic
resonance imaging, NMR, Nuclear magnetic resonance. ... Magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) uses a large magnet and radio waves to look at organs and structures
inside your body. Health care professionals use MRI scans to diagnose a variety of
conditions
Learning Objective PGAT_COON_2016_2.4.2 – Define biopsychology; and describe the topics
studied by biopsychologists, including the brain research strategy referred to as localization of
function.
the branch of psychology concerned with its biological and physiological aspects.
Learning Objective PGAT_COON_2016_2.4.3 – Describe the techniques that are used to map brain
functions, including clinical case studies and the observations of neurological soft signs, electrical
stimulation, ablation, deep lesioning, electrical recording, and microelectrode recording, and the less
intrusive EEG recording, PET scans, and fMRI scans; and discuss how these techniques have been
used to detect and understand brain disorders and even behaviors, such as lying.
