Tools for Examining the Adaptable Brain

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What is neuroscience?

Back

Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary brain science that works closely with other disciplines.

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What is the purpose of a brain autopsy?

Back

Examination of brain tissue after death to diagnose specific neurodegenerative disorders.

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What are lesioning studies?

Back

Research on humans with brain lesions to establish the function of the affected area.

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What is a prefrontal lobotomy?

Back

An operation that removes parts of the brain to control behavior, disconnecting the prefrontal cortex from the rest of the brain.

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What is a hemispherectomy?

Back

Brain surgery that removes one half of the brain to treat behavioral disorders or illnesses, such as epilepsy.

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What is deep brain stimulation?

Back

A less invasive method of altering the brain to eliminate behavioral symptoms by inserting an electrode to stimulate a specific area.

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What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?

Back

A noninvasive technique that uses an electromagnetic wand to alter brain activity, affecting emotions and moods.

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What is the purpose of brain scanning?

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To provide information about the structure or activity of the brain, not to treat disorders.

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What do X-rays show in brain scanning?

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Primarily show bones and solid structures, useful for identifying skull fractures.

Front

What is an electroencephalograph (EEG)?

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A machine that records brain-wave patterns produced by electrical activity of the brain's surface.