FRONTAL CORTEX The Core Definition of the Frontal Cortex The frontal cortex refers to the most anterior region of the cerebral cortex, encompassing the majority of the frontal lobe. This vast area, situated at the very front of the brain directly behind the forehead, is the epicenter for higher-order cognitive functioning, playing an indispensable role […]
Cortical Centers of the Human Brain The Core Definition and Mechanism The term Cortical Centers refers collectively to the specialized regions within the cerebral cortex, the outermost layer of the cerebrum, which serves as the principal seat of higher mental functions in humans. This complex, highly convoluted sheet of neural tissue is fundamentally responsible for […]
DELAYED MATCHING TO SAMPLE (DMTS) The Core Definition and Mechanism Delayed Matching to Sample (DMTS) is a fundamental cognitive task employed extensively in experimental psychology, neuroscience, and comparative psychology to assess the processes of working memory, visual attention, and recognition memory. At its core, DMTS requires a subject—whether human or animal—to retain a representation of […]
Anticipation The Core Definition of Anticipation Anticipation is a fundamental cognitive process that enables individuals to predict and mentally prepare for future events. At its most fundamental level, it represents the brain’s capacity to project forward in time, constructing mental representations of what might occur. This intrinsic ability is crucial for survival and effective functioning […]
Executive Function: A Review of its Developmental and Neurobiological Foundations Abstract Executive function (EF) is a cognitive process that enables individuals to plan, regulate, and organize behavior to achieve goals. EF is often described as a higher order cognitive process, and is closely related to other cognitive domains such as working memory, attention, and inhibition. […]
The uncinate fasciculus (UF) is a white matter tract in the brain that connects the prefrontal cortex to the temporal lobe. It plays a key role in connecting various regions of the brain and has been linked to various cognitive and emotional functions. In this article, we review the anatomy, functional connectivity, and clinical relevance […]
Transorbital Lobotomy: An Overview Transorbital lobotomy, also called “icepick” or “prefrontal” lobotomy, is a type of psychosurgical procedure that involves severing connections in the brain’s prefrontal cortex. This procedure was first developed in the 1940s as a way to treat psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression. In the decades since, it has been used […]
Response Suppression: A Review of Its Mechanisms and Applications Abstract Response suppression refers to a form of behavior control that involves inhibiting a response, either voluntarily or reflexively, to a given stimulus. This review provides an overview of the mechanisms behind response suppression, as well as the current applications of this behavior control strategy. Studies […]
Mesocortical System: A Unique Structure with Multiple Cognitive Functions The mesocortical system, a unique brain structure located between the cortex and the mesencephalon, is responsible for the formation of multiple cognitive functions. It is composed of several pathways that connect the prefrontal cortex and the mesencephalon, including the mesocortical, mesolimbic, and mesostriatal pathways (Adhikari, 2017). […]
Introduction to the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, commonly abbreviated as the DLPFC, represents one of the most sophisticated and evolutionarily advanced regions of the human brain. Located within the frontal lobe, specifically situated just behind the forehead, this area serves as a critical hub for the brain’s executive network. The DLPFC is […]
Definition and Conceptual Framework of Leukotomy Leukotomy, also frequently spelled as leucotomy, is a historically significant yet highly controversial surgical procedure classified under the broader umbrella of psychosurgery. This intervention involves the intentional destruction or severing of the neural pathways within the brain, specifically targeting the white matter fibers that connect the prefrontal cortex to […]
Dyssocial Reaction: Neurobiological Considerations A growing body of evidence is beginning to suggest that various forms of behavior that are commonly referred to as ‘antisocial’ or ‘dysfunctional’ may in fact be the result of neurobiological factors. This paper will discuss the neurological and neurobiological underpinnings of dyssocial reaction, an umbrella term encompassing a range of […]
The prefrontal cortex (PFC) represents the most anterior and evolutionarily recent portion of the frontal lobe of each of the brain’s cerebral hemispheres. Recognized fundamentally as the frontal association area, the PFC is the primary neural substrate responsible for the complex array of cognitive processes collectively known as executive functions. These functions include, but are […]