Neuroplasticity and Human Development Quiz

Gastrulation involves the generation of layers of cells to define the axes of development, including the notochord. Neurulation involves the transformation of the ectoderm above the notochord into the neural tube, which gives rise to the brain, spinal cord, and most of the peripheral nervous system.

The four stages of neural development are neurogenesis, cell migration, differentiation, and synapse formation. Neurogenesis involves the proliferation of neural cells, cell migration establishes distinct cell populations, differentiation involves precursor cells differentiating into neurons and other cells, and synapse formation occurs as connections between neurons are established.

Neural induction is the process by which molecular signals specify the final position and type of precursor cells in the developing nervous system. This process is genetically determined, meaning that the genetic information of the cells determines their fate and position in the nervous system.

Molecular signals, relative to the original position of the cells, specify the final position and type for neural precursor cells through a process called neural induction. These signals help the cells develop a head and tail end, migrate to their final positions, and differentiate into specific cell types in the nervous system.

Genetics and environment both play crucial roles in human growth and development. Genetics determine certain biological factors, while environment, including diet and physical activity, can also significantly impact development.

Prenatal development is crucial as it encompasses the early stages of growth and is influenced by both genetics and environment. There are sensitive stages during prenatal development where particular environmental influences can have long-lasting effects on the developing individual.

Attachment theory emphasizes the development of affectionate ties with caregivers and its impact on future relationships and social skills. It highlights the importance of early relationships in shaping an individual's social and emotional development.

Adulthood and older age are divided into young, middle, and older adulthood phases. Each phase is characterized by distinct developmental changes and challenges, such as career development in young adulthood and physical changes in older adulthood.

The corticospinal pathway is the major output pathway for voluntary movement, involving neurons from the motor cortex and other cortical areas. It is responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the spinal cord to initiate and control voluntary movements.

Neuroplasticity refers to the nervous system's ability to change and adapt structurally and functionally in response to learning and experience. It operates at genetic, intracellular, intercellular, and whole brain levels, allowing for recovery and adaptation to functional demands.

Recovery from injury involves processes like denervation super sensitivity, synaptic hyper-effectiveness, and regenerative synaptogenesis in both the PNS and CNS. These processes contribute to the potential for functional recovery and adaptation following injury.

The environment shapes movement through regulatory and non-regulatory features, influencing motor patterns and ergonomics. It plays a significant role in the emergence and adaptation of motor behaviors based on task attributes, such as stability vs mobility, and manipulation continuum.

Neural induction and differentiation are essential for the full cell differentiation, process outgrowth, and proliferation of synapses in the developing brain. Disruptions to these processes can result in congenital conditions such as Spina bifida, Anencephaly, Fetal alcohol syndrome, and Fragile X syndrome.

Modification of neural circuits is related to experience and underpins variations in personality, ability, and behavior. Critical periods in development, neurotransmitter activity, and receptor sensitivity influence the modification of neural circuits. Problems with synaptic and circuitry modification may underpin conditions like autism, schizophrenia, or ADHD.

Brain efficiency continues to improve in the 20s to early 30s, with changes in white matter, synaptic pruning, and gray matter. These changes impact cognitive development by contributing to improved cognitive function and maturation.

Adolescents are characterized by variation in the size of the Amygdala and Hippocampus, with further maturing leading to leaps in cognition. These variations impact cognition by influencing emotional regulation, memory processing, and cognitive development.

The 'Use it or lose it' principle suggests that failure to regularly engage in certain activities or skills can lead to a decline in the neural networks and connections associated with those activities or skills. This principle emphasizes the importance of continued usage and stimulation to maintain and strengthen neural pathways.

Long term potentiation at a synaptic level is crucial for learning and memory. It requires cooperativity, associativity, and specificity, meaning that simultaneous activation of multiple synapses, pairing of signals, and the nature of training are essential for strengthening synaptic connections. Additionally, factors such as repetition, intensity, timing, and salience play critical roles in inducing and maintaining plasticity.

Synaptic potentiation and reorganization are impacted by age, with older individuals still being capable of engaging in neuroplasticity. This suggests that despite age-related changes, continued engagement in activities and environmental stimulation can support ongoing neural development and adaptation. Therefore, age should not be seen as a barrier to neuroplasticity and human development.

Epigenetics and gene expression play a significant role in human development, as they can be modified by social, psychological, and environmental factors. This means that experiences and environmental influences can impact gene expression and the development of traits and behaviors, highlighting the dynamic interplay between genetics and the environment in shaping human development.