What are brain computer interfaces?
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- Neural interfaces are devices that connect our brains to computers and interact with our nervous system.
- The body's actions and functions are controlled by neurons. They communicate information to and from the brain and the rest of the nervous system using chemical and electrical signals
- In the future, neural interfaces could replace pharmaceutical treatments, train your brain to improve your concentration or your memory, or even to communicate sensory experiences.
The Brain and Neurons
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86 BILLION NEURONS IN BRAIN
Dendrites: creating connections, how neurons receive information
Soma: majority of the cell function takes place, signal processing occurs here, whether to fire or not
Axon: Carries electrochemical signals to other neurons, like speakers
Action potentials: Chain reactions, when started can’t be stopped, eventually reaches axon terminal
- The brain is highly complex and contains over 86 billion neurons.
- The "old brain", the cerebral cortex, and the limbic system are fundamental parts of our understanding of the modern brain. These different parts of the brain are all responsible for different functions relating to the central nervous system (CNS).
- In fMRI, or Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, the same things happen as with MRI, the energy emitted from protons is measured, but the calculations are instead aimed at determining how the amount of oxygenated blood flow changes.
- Neuron's are made up of many parts: dendrites intercept neurotransmitters, then these signals are interpreted in the soma (cell body). The soma then sends all of its information to the axon, and the action potential travels through the myelin and finally to the axon terminals, where it releases neurotransmitters.
Research
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