New maps of the human brain
Article Abstract:
The advent of new techniques has permitted researchers to investigate the human brain in ways that were impossible only a few years ago. While much of what is known about the architecture of the brain comes from animal studies, in which invasive techniques may be used, scientists are beginning to learn about the workings of the human brain from modern noninvasive techniques such as the PET scan. The PET (positron emission tomography) scan can directly record the metabolic activity of the living brain. As particular portions of the brain are used, the blood flow and glucose uptake in these areas rise; this can be directly observed on the PET scan. However, seasoned neuroscientists such as Vernon Mountcastle warn against naively assuming that this information will result in rapid understanding of the inner workings of the brain. The method only gives a crude image of the brain's geography; there is no way to tease out the actual neural processes which are occurring in the active regions. Furthermore, a PET pioneer laments that the device is being used for shoddy research. The attractive pictures produced by the instrument make for impressive-looking publications, but in many studies the underlying scientific validity is questionable or nonexistent. Despite the difficulties, some investigators emphasize the importance of studying humans with the technique. They point out that in order to understand the processes of the human mind, such as language and mathematical problem-solving, one must study the human brain. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1990
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Empathy and brain evolution
Article Abstract:
Neurobiologist Terrence W. Deacon proposes that the human brain expanded its ability for language processing and symbolic thinking in response to demands for new ways to communicate with other human beings. Humans gave up area devoted to sight, smell and vocalization, but gained the capacity for empathy.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1993
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First Americans: not mammoth hunters, but forest dwellers?
Article Abstract:
A new excavation in a Brazilian cave provides evidence that early Paleoindians were living 11,000 years ago in South America's Amazon jungle. Although they lived at the same time as the Clovis people, they foraged rather than hunted for food.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1996
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