Neurons and the Nervous System
What is the basic unit of the nervous system?
Neuron/Nerve Cell
Our bodies operate on a 24-hour cycle that operates like a biological clock. What is this called?
Circadian Rhythm
What is tolerance?
The diminishing effect with regular use of the same dose of a drug, requiring the user to take larger and larger doses before experiencing the drug’s effect.
What is a substance abuse disorder?
Dependence on a substance that interferes with daily life.
What is the name of the former NFL player who was diagnosed with ALS and has since started a foundation to provide support and technology for those suffering from ALS?
Steve Gleason
Tiny little chemicals that cross the synaptic gaps between neurons and have a role in our moods are called what?
Neurotransmitters
What are at least two effects of sleep deprivation?
Crabbiness, tiredness, weight gain, decreased immune function, decreased response time, headaches, etc
What are the three classes of drugs?
Depressants, Stimulants, Hallucinogens
Describe Sleep Apnea.
Temporary cessations of breathing that occur hundreds of time throughout the night preventing one from achieving deep sleep.
Name one of the celebrities discussed in class who died with fentanyl in their system.
Mac Miller, Tom Petty, Prince
How do drugs have an effect on neurotransmitter levels?
Either block or stimulate production of neurotransmitters.
What does REM stand for?
Rapid Eye Movement
What is the most abused substance in the world?
Alcohol
What is narcolepsy?
Individuals fall directly into REM sleep, often at inopportune times.
Which category of drugs have been gaining traction as a treatment for PTSD and depression?
The sympathetic nervous system can be associated with the phrase "fight or flight," what phrase can be associated with the parasympathetic nervous system?
Rest and Digest
What is the "cocktail party effect"?
Despite taking in millions of sensory information every second, we can focus our attention on a particular stimulus.
Name an example of a stimulant, a depressant, and a hallucinogen.
Various.
What is the name of the sleep disorder where individuals "act out" their dreams?
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Complete this statement: Everything psychological is _____________.
Biological
What is the difference in gray matter and white matter when referring to the brain?
White matter means that the neurons have been covered with myelin.
What are three reasons why we sleep?
Protection, recuperation, restoration of memories, creative thinking, growth
Which drug can lead to severe death and overheating because it has a dehydrating effect and is often paired with prolonged dancing?
Ecstasy/MDMA
What type of neurons does ALS act on and what does it do to those neurons?
Motor neurons, weakens them to the point where they can no longer function.
What is the mascot of the University where Steve Gleason attended college and played football?
Cougar