Describe the role that MRI, fMRI, and PET scans have played in helping us to understand the human brain
What will be an ideal response?
MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, involves passing nonharmful radio frequencies through the brain. A computer measures how these signals interact with brain cells and transforms this interaction into an incredibly detailed image of the brain (or body). MRIs are used to study the structure of the brain.
A newer and different version of the MRI is called the fMRI. The "f" in fMRI stands for functional. The fMRI measures the changes in activity of specific neurons that are functioning during cognitive tasks, such as thinking, listening, or reading. fMRI scans can map activities of neurons that are involved in various cognitive functions. In comparison, MRI scans show the location of structures inside the brain as well as identify sites of brain damage.
A PET scan, or positron emission tomography, involves injecting a slightly radioactive solution into the blood and then measuring the amount of radiation absorbed by neurons. Very active neurons absorb more radioactive solution than less active ones. Different levels of absorption are represented by colors: red and yellow indicate maximum activity of neurons, while blue and green indicate minimal activity.
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Heather is taking a prescription drug to control her back pain. She finds that when she takes the drug, she experiences some short-term drowsiness and nausea. It is likely that Heather's physician has prescribed
a. a stimulant. b. a sedative. c. a hallucinogen. d. a narcotic.
One of the reasons adolescents enjoy online communication with peers over face-to-face in some circumstances is because online settings allow them to
a. explore sexual identity in lower-risk ways. b. experience heightened arousal and risk associated with identity exploration. c. lie about who they are. d. meet a greater number of people from further away.
Emotional expressions that emerge after infancy are disgust and interest
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
Children's understanding that their gender will not change if their behavior and physical characteristics remain the same is referred to as gender constancy
Indicate whether the statement is true or false