The document discusses evidence for fetal pain from an evolutionary perspective. It argues that since fish feel pain, and early fetal development resembles the fish stage, fetuses may experience pain from an early stage. Studies showing that fish exhibit wariness after painful stimuli and can remember pain provide support. Further evidence discussed includes fetal learning abilities before birth, functional brain and sensory development by 20 weeks, and lack of self-harm suggesting sensation and memory. While some research has questioned fetal pain capabilities, the overall document makes a case that fetuses may experience some levels of consciousness, sensation and pain beginning fairly early in development.
This document discusses whether fetal "awareness" and the ability to experience pain exist, and what precautions should be taken to safeguard fetal welfare during experiments. It summarizes recent reviews on the potential for prenatal consciousness. While fetuses show reflexive responses to stimuli, extensive animal studies show the fetal brain is in a continuous state of unconsciousness maintained by neuroinhibitory mechanisms. Fetuses may not be consciously aware or able to experience pain. Caution is needed in giving analgesics since they can have unique adverse effects on fetuses.
The document discusses whether a fetus can feel pain and at what gestational age. It examines the anatomical, physiological, and behavioral evidence. While the fetus's experience of pain cannot be directly measured, the neural pathways for pain are developed by 20 weeks gestation. The fetus shows stress responses to invasive procedures from 16 weeks onward. Therefore, it is possible the fetus can feel pain from 20 weeks of gestation. More research is needed to fully understand fetal pain and how to provide appropriate analgesia during invasive prenatal procedures.
The document discusses evidence that fetuses are capable of feeling pain from as early as 8 weeks gestation. It notes that by 20 weeks gestation, the fetal brain has a full complement of neurons and EEG recordings are possible, indicating the fetus is capable of experiencing pain from 20 weeks onward. The document also discusses the gene c-fos, which is activated in response to painful stimuli and is a marker for pain in the central nervous system. Fos expression has been found in fetal bones as early as 16 weeks gestation, suggesting the fetus is capable of feeling pain from that point.
1) The document discusses the development of the fetal pain pathway and whether the fetus can feel pain from invasive procedures.
2) It notes that the necessary neuroanatomical structures for pain perception, like intact thalamocortical connections, do not develop until 26 weeks of gestation.
3) While the fetus reacts to stimuli through stress responses, there is no evidence these reactions involve conscious awareness or feeling of pain. However, providing fetal analgesia can reduce the stress response caused by invasive procedures.
The document discusses evidence that fetal memory exists and what functions it may serve. It reviews studies showing that fetuses are capable of classical conditioning, habituation, and exposure learning, indicating they have a memory. Possible functions of fetal memory discussed include practice for skills after birth, recognition of and attachment to the mother to promote breastfeeding, and aids in language acquisition. While more research is still needed, the evidence suggests fetuses possess a rudimentary memory beginning in the third trimester that allows for basic learning and may serve important developmental functions.
This document discusses fetal pain and the development of the human brain prior to birth. It summarizes that the human brain is more developed than once thought by around 2 months before birth, comparable to a newborn macaque. Neurons in the subplate zone of the fetal brain form functional networks and influence cortical development. While cortical neurons were once thought necessary for conscious pain perception, immaturity alone does not preclude fetal pain, as subcortical structures are also involved in consciousness.
Disease is caused by many interrelated factors including genetics, environmental toxins, nutritional imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, chemical imbalances, lifestyle factors, and psycho-social stressors. All of these factors interact in complex ways and can cause imbalances throughout the body. A holistic approach aims to address the underlying causes and remove impediments to healing by optimizing nutrition, reducing toxic exposures, and supporting digestive and detoxification processes.
This document discusses the potential shared pathophysiological mechanism of dysregulated inflammation linking neurocognitive and behavioral dysfunction in individuals with HIV, depression, and chronic stress. It provides background on psychoneuroimmunology and highlights classic studies showing interactions between behavior, the immune system, and nervous system. Emotions are discussed as being central to these interactions through their physiological effects in the brain and ability to aid memory formation and physiological regulation. Individual differences, genetics, and social contexts can impact these psychoneuroimmunological relationships.
This document discusses whether fetal "awareness" and the ability to experience pain exist, and what precautions should be taken to safeguard fetal welfare during experiments. It summarizes recent reviews on the potential for prenatal consciousness. While fetuses show reflexive responses to stimuli, extensive animal studies show the fetal brain is in a continuous state of unconsciousness maintained by neuroinhibitory mechanisms. Fetuses may not be consciously aware or able to experience pain. Caution is needed in giving analgesics since they can have unique adverse effects on fetuses.
The document discusses whether a fetus can feel pain and at what gestational age. It examines the anatomical, physiological, and behavioral evidence. While the fetus's experience of pain cannot be directly measured, the neural pathways for pain are developed by 20 weeks gestation. The fetus shows stress responses to invasive procedures from 16 weeks onward. Therefore, it is possible the fetus can feel pain from 20 weeks of gestation. More research is needed to fully understand fetal pain and how to provide appropriate analgesia during invasive prenatal procedures.
The document discusses evidence that fetuses are capable of feeling pain from as early as 8 weeks gestation. It notes that by 20 weeks gestation, the fetal brain has a full complement of neurons and EEG recordings are possible, indicating the fetus is capable of experiencing pain from 20 weeks onward. The document also discusses the gene c-fos, which is activated in response to painful stimuli and is a marker for pain in the central nervous system. Fos expression has been found in fetal bones as early as 16 weeks gestation, suggesting the fetus is capable of feeling pain from that point.
1) The document discusses the development of the fetal pain pathway and whether the fetus can feel pain from invasive procedures.
2) It notes that the necessary neuroanatomical structures for pain perception, like intact thalamocortical connections, do not develop until 26 weeks of gestation.
3) While the fetus reacts to stimuli through stress responses, there is no evidence these reactions involve conscious awareness or feeling of pain. However, providing fetal analgesia can reduce the stress response caused by invasive procedures.
The document discusses evidence that fetal memory exists and what functions it may serve. It reviews studies showing that fetuses are capable of classical conditioning, habituation, and exposure learning, indicating they have a memory. Possible functions of fetal memory discussed include practice for skills after birth, recognition of and attachment to the mother to promote breastfeeding, and aids in language acquisition. While more research is still needed, the evidence suggests fetuses possess a rudimentary memory beginning in the third trimester that allows for basic learning and may serve important developmental functions.
This document discusses fetal pain and the development of the human brain prior to birth. It summarizes that the human brain is more developed than once thought by around 2 months before birth, comparable to a newborn macaque. Neurons in the subplate zone of the fetal brain form functional networks and influence cortical development. While cortical neurons were once thought necessary for conscious pain perception, immaturity alone does not preclude fetal pain, as subcortical structures are also involved in consciousness.
Disease is caused by many interrelated factors including genetics, environmental toxins, nutritional imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, chemical imbalances, lifestyle factors, and psycho-social stressors. All of these factors interact in complex ways and can cause imbalances throughout the body. A holistic approach aims to address the underlying causes and remove impediments to healing by optimizing nutrition, reducing toxic exposures, and supporting digestive and detoxification processes.
This document discusses the potential shared pathophysiological mechanism of dysregulated inflammation linking neurocognitive and behavioral dysfunction in individuals with HIV, depression, and chronic stress. It provides background on psychoneuroimmunology and highlights classic studies showing interactions between behavior, the immune system, and nervous system. Emotions are discussed as being central to these interactions through their physiological effects in the brain and ability to aid memory formation and physiological regulation. Individual differences, genetics, and social contexts can impact these psychoneuroimmunological relationships.
1) O estudo avaliou a associação entre a exposição diária à poluição do ar e a função respiratória de 118 escolares no Rio de Janeiro, medindo os níveis de poluentes e a função pulmonar das crianças diariamente por seis semanas.
2) Foi encontrada uma redução na função pulmonar associada ao aumento dos níveis de PM10 e NO2, mesmo quando dentro dos limites considerados aceitáveis.
3) O estudo fornece evidências de que a poluição atmosférica pode afetar negativamente
New Vision Healthcare specializes in managing employee healthcare schemes that are self-funded through discretionary trusts. This allows companies to design customized benefit structures and reduces costs by up to 25% compared to private medical insurance. Self-funding in trusts provides tax benefits and more flexibility to control costs while continuing to offer employees quality healthcare coverage. New Vision Healthcare works with companies to negotiate discounted rates with private hospitals and manage claims to contain healthcare spending for the trust.
The document discusses the history and current state of research on fetal pain. It summarizes that in the 1970s, the prevailing view was that fetuses and newborns could not feel pain. However, research in the 1980s by the author and colleagues established the biological structures and functions necessary to feel pain were present from early in fetal development, including nociceptors, nerves, and brain structures like the thalamus processing pain signals. The document provides extensive evidence from various studies that fetuses show physiological and behavioral responses to painful stimuli from as early as 13 weeks gestation, indicating they are capable of experiencing pain.
The document appears to be an agenda for the 2011 convention of South Dakota Right to Life. The agenda lists times and topics for various sessions over the course of the convention, including discussions on informed consent, the abortion agenda, pro-life art, and grassroots organization. It also introduces several of the scheduled speakers, such as Carol Tobias and Rep. Jenna Haggar.
Bold Shoes aimed to be a market leader through their "4A's Strategy" and increasing shareholder value. They invested in expanding capacity, increased advertising and CSR initiatives, reviewed pricing, and focused on revenue growth over the years. As a result, Bold Shoes maximized output and market share, maintaining sales and earnings above industry averages. Their strategic actions positioned them as a sustainable market leader and investors' choice.
The document discusses the history and current state of research on fetal pain. It describes how in the 1970s, the prevailing view was that fetuses and newborns could not feel pain. However, research beginning in the 1980s found that fetuses have fully developed pain receptor pathways by 8 weeks gestation. It provides extensive evidence that fetuses can feel pain, including the presence of pain-sensing structures, neurotransmitters, hormonal and physiological responses to painful stimuli, and efforts to reduce fetal pain through anesthesia. The document rebuts common arguments against fetal pain such as lack of cortex, myelination, communication or memory.
The document discusses how thoughts, feelings, and emotions can influence the body through various pathways and systems. It explores the mind-body connection through fields like psychophysiology, psychoneuroimmunology, and epigenetics. Experts explain how chronic negative thinking can negatively impact bodily functions over time by triggering disease or weakening the immune system. The body's stress response, immune system, DNA expression, and other processes are interconnected with the mind in complex ways not fully understood. Suppressing emotions and persistent negative thoughts can cumulatively impact health through these mind-body mechanisms.
Assignment Details
Open Date
Apr 2, 2018 12:05 AM
Graded?
Yes
Points Possible
100.0
Resubmissions Allowed?
No
Attachments checked for originality?
Yes
Top of Form
Assignment Instructions
In a five paragraph essay (600 minimum words) using your favorite theorist, apply that theory to brain development as it was discussed in our readings. You may also include the impact of culture, early physical growth, and similar factors that impact the overall development of the child.
See attached rubric for grading details.
Supporting Materials
·
308 Assignment 3. Rubric.doc
(50 KB)
Bottom of Form
The Physical Development of the Young Child
Take a moment and think about a newborn infant--at birth, human infants are, essentially, completely vulnerable and helpless. Unlike many animals, they cannot walk, consume solid food, or manage even the most basic tasks for their own survival. This is the price we pay for our brains--we are born far less developed than many creatures. Over the course of a very short time, around two years, that helpless newborn learns to walk and talk, to manipulate objects, to engage and participate in the world around her.
This transition from a helpless newborn to a toddler or preschooler requires massive amounts of
learning
, fueled by rapid brain growth, sensorimotor development, and physical growth. The infant, from birth, uses his ability to perceive to learn and develop an understanding of the world around him.
TOPICS COVERED WILL INCLUDE:
Brain development during infancy and toddlerhood at the larger level of the cerebral cortex.
Learning through classical conditioning, operant conditioning, habituation and recovery, and imitation.
Dynamic Systems theory of motor development, highlighting cultural variations in motor development.
Gibsons’ Differentiation Theory of perceptual development.
The Development of the Brain
Brain development in the first two years of life is fascinating and awe-inspiring. Most of the physical growth of the brain occurs during the first two years of life. Neuroscience has shed light on the development of
neurons
and the
cerebral cortex
in particular. At birth, infants have approximately one hundred billion neurons. Relatively few neurons will be produced after birth. The newborn’s neurons are connected only tentatively. In the first years, essential connections between neurons form. Combined with understanding sensitive periods and the role of the environment, we have a much clearer picture of what is happening in the infant and toddler brain today than ever before.
Note the lobes of the brain
Development of Neurons
Neurons firing in the brain
Neurons are nerve cells in the brain that store and transmit information. In total, the human brain has between 100 to 200 billion of these neurons.
‹
1/4
›
· Neurons send messages from one to another through tiny gaps, called
synapses
. These messages travel on chemicals called neur ...
Health and Disease by Iridology Examination - Professor Serge JurasunasSheldon Stein
Professor Jurasunas offers an introductory overview to the history and practice of Iridology. He draws from his 50 years of clinical practice and offers real life cases, emphasizing the value of Iridology as a diagnostic tool, explaining the relationship between the iris, nervous system, and body's organs, as well as embryological development.
This chapter from the book "Why Can't We Love Them Both" discusses evidence that fetuses can feel pain by 8 weeks gestation. It notes that the necessary neurological structures are present by this age. It provides examples of fetuses reacting physically to stimuli through movements and changes in heart rate. Further evidence is discussed from studies measuring hormone responses and brain activity. The possibility of fetal pain during abortions is also addressed.
This document discusses brain plasticity and development. It begins with a review of concepts from the previous class, including that neural stem cells can give rise to both neurons and glial cells. It then discusses mechanisms of cortical development from the inside out via neuronal migration. The document reviews findings from longitudinal MRI studies showing cortical thinning from childhood to adolescence reflects pruning of synapses and myelination. It also summarizes studies finding brain differences at 6 months in infants who later develop autism versus those who do not. Finally, it discusses forms of learning in newborns including classical and operant conditioning, and how sleep facilitates memory and brain development in infants.
I apologize, upon reviewing the document and summaries provided, I do not have enough context to generate a high-quality summary in 3 sentences or less. The document discusses several topics related to neural reflexes and the gastrointestinal system at a technical level without clearly connecting the information or stating an overarching purpose or conclusion. A summary would require making assumptions beyond what is directly stated. It may be better if you can provide a different document with a clearer focus to summarize.
Neuroplasticity: The Brain That Changes ItselfS'eclairer
The document discusses neuroplasticity and how the brain can change itself through experiences like stress, beliefs, environment, and activities. It provides examples of research that shows how thinking patterns can impact health conditions like heart disease, how environments and experiences can influence gene expression, and how cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can help rewire the brain and reduce symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder.
This document discusses whether a fetus can experience consciousness or pain. It explores the development of fetal neurology and the minimal requirements for consciousness. While fetuses develop stress responses to stimuli early in gestation, consciousness requires integrated processing and coordination between brain structures and rhythms. The fetal brain structures and electrical rhythms involved in consciousness in newborns are present in utero by the third trimester, suggesting fetuses could potentially experience a rudimentary form of consciousness late in development. However, more research is needed to fully understand fetal neurology and experience.
1) A study of fetal anatomy shows that by 20 weeks gestation, the brain structures necessary for consciousness (thalamus and related areas) are developed and accompanied by coordinated EEG rhythms, suggesting consciousness is possible by this point.
2) If a more stringent threshold of continuous EEG is required, consciousness would be possible by 30 weeks gestation.
3) If consciousness is possible beginning at 20-30 weeks gestation, it is also possible that fetuses could experience something like "pain" beginning at this point. The possibility of consciousness and pain would require appropriate anesthesia and analgesia for fetal surgery.
Infancy Physical Development Chapter 4 and 5Infan.docxjaggernaoma
Infancy: Physical Development
Chapter 4 and 5
Infant development progresses rapidly. Infants usually come into this world equipped to begin the journey of life!
1
Principles of Development
Cephalocaudal
Proximodistal
Cephalocaudal – refers to development as progressing from head to toe. Consider muscle development babies begin by being able to lift their head and then it progresses to ultimate control of muscles which would be walking.
Proximodistal refers to center out. Again consider the last area one gains control is the fingers.
2
Skeletal Growth
Skeletal Age
Epiphyses
Fontanels
The best estimate of a child’s physical maturity is skeletal age, which is a measure of development of the bones of the body.
Epiphyses are growth centers, that appear at the ends of the long end of the bones of the body. Cartilage cells continue to be produces at the growth plates of these epiphyses, which increase in number throughout childhood and then as growth continues, get thinner and disappear.
Skull growth is especially rapid between birth and 2 years of age due to large increases in brain size. At birth the bones of the skull are separated by gaps called fontanels. These gaps help during the birth process and also allow for brain development. There are 6 of these – the largest is the anterior gap. It will gradually shrink and fill in during the second year. The other fontanels are smaller and close more quickly. As the skull bones come in contact with one another, they form sutures or seams, these permit the skull to expand easily as the brain grows. The sutures will disappear when skull growth is complete, during the teen years.
3
Brain Development
Synaptic Pruning
Myelination
Cerebral Cortex
Prefrontal cortex
Hemispheres
Lateralization
Brain plasticity
At birth the brain is nearer to its adult size than any other physical structure.
Human brain has 100 to 200 billion neurons or nerve cells that store and transmit information. Between nuerons are tiny gaps or synapses, where fibers from different neurons come close together but do not touch. Neurons send messages to one another by releasing chemicals call neurotransmitters which cross the synapse. During infancy and toddlerhood, neural fibers and synapses increase dramatically. Because developing neurons require space for connective structures, as synapses form surrounding neurons will die. As neurons form connections, stimulation becomes vital for their survival. Neurons that are stimulated by input from the surrounding environment continue to establish new synapses, forming increasingly elaborate systems of communication that support more complex abilities. Neurons that are seldom stimulated soon lose their synapses, through synaptic pruning, which returns neurons not needed at the moment to an uncommitted state so they can support future development.
About half of the brain is made up of glial cells which are responsible for myelination, the coating of.
The Role Of Cytokines On Immune PrivilegeKaty Allen
- Immune privilege sites like the brain actively suppress inflammation to protect delicate tissues from damage. Cytokines play a role in maintaining this immune privilege.
- Experiments on mice found that chronic early-life stress impaired microglial function and rewired the brain's stress response pathways, causing depression-like behaviors in adulthood. Treating the stress hormone CRH reversed these effects.
- Exposure to toxins in tobacco smoke during development can alter brain cell proliferation, synaptic activity, and microglial function, potentially leading to neurological and cognitive impairments.
Cerebral function in_coma_vegetative_state_minimalMarcelaVargas96
This document discusses cerebral function in various states of altered consciousness including coma, vegetative state, minimally conscious state, locked-in syndrome, and brain death. It begins by defining key terms like consciousness, arousal, and awareness. It then provides clinical definitions for coma, vegetative state, and minimally conscious state. The document also reviews functional neuroanatomy of these conditions as assessed by positron emission tomography scanning.
Contributions of Neuroscience toOur Understanding of CognitiAlleneMcclendon878
Contributions of Neuroscience to
Our Understanding of Cognitive
Development
Adele Diamond1 and Dima Amso2
1
Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, and Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry,
BC Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada; and
2
Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology,
Weill Medical College of Cornell University
ABSTRACT—One major contribution of neuroscience to
understanding cognitive development has been in demon-
strating that biology is not destiny—that is, demonstrating
the remarkable role of experience in shaping the mind,
brain, and body. Only rarely has neuroscience provided
wholly new insights into cognitive development, but often
it has provided evidence of mechanisms by which obser-
vations of developmental psychologists could be explained.
Behavioral findings have often remained controversial
until an underlying biological mechanism for them was
offered. Neuroscience has demonstrated promise for de-
tecting cognitive problems before they are behaviorally
observable—and, hence, promise for early intervention. In
this article, we discuss examples drawn from imitation and
mirror neurons, phenylketonuria (PKU) and prefrontal
dopamine, maternal touch and stress reactivity, and non-
genetic (behavioral) intergenerational transmission of bi-
ological characteristics.
KEYWORDS—plasticity; epigenesis; mothering; executive
functions; animal models; molecular genetics; memory
Neuroscience research has made its greatest contributions to the
study of cognitive development by illuminating mechanisms
(providing a ‘‘how’’) that underlie behavioral observations made
earlier by psychologists. It has also made important contribu-
tions to our understanding of cognitive development by dem-
onstrating that the brain is far more plastic at all ages than
previously thought—and thus that the speed and extent by which
experience and behavior can shape the brain is greater than al-
most anyone imagined. In other words, rather than showing that
biology is destiny, neuroscience research has been at the fore-
front of demonstrating the powerful role of experience throughout
life. Besides the surprising evidence of the remarkable extent
of experience-induced plasticity, rarely has neuroscience given
us previously unknown insights into cognitive development, but
neuroscience does offer promise of being able to detect some
problems before they are behaviorally observable.
PROVIDING MECHANISMS THAT CAN ACCOUNT FOR
BEHAVIORAL RESULTS REPORTED BY
PSYCHOLOGISTS
Here we describe two examples of behavioral findings by psy-
chologists that were largely ignored or extremely controversial
until underlying biological mechanisms capable of accounting
for them were provided by neuroscience research. One such
example concerns cognitive deficits documented in children
treated early and continuously for phenylketonuria (PKU). The
second example involves neonatal imitation observed b ...
This document summarizes research from various disciplines showing how experiences during conception, pregnancy, birth, and early life can influence long-term health and well-being through epigenetic modifications. Studies with mice and rats showed that maternal stress and diet during pregnancy can alter DNA expression and behavior in offspring. Human studies confirm these effects, linking prenatal stress to increased risks of diseases. However, secure mother-infant attachment appears to promote resilience. New models of maternity care aim to reduce stress and enhance attachment.
1) O estudo avaliou a associação entre a exposição diária à poluição do ar e a função respiratória de 118 escolares no Rio de Janeiro, medindo os níveis de poluentes e a função pulmonar das crianças diariamente por seis semanas.
2) Foi encontrada uma redução na função pulmonar associada ao aumento dos níveis de PM10 e NO2, mesmo quando dentro dos limites considerados aceitáveis.
3) O estudo fornece evidências de que a poluição atmosférica pode afetar negativamente
New Vision Healthcare specializes in managing employee healthcare schemes that are self-funded through discretionary trusts. This allows companies to design customized benefit structures and reduces costs by up to 25% compared to private medical insurance. Self-funding in trusts provides tax benefits and more flexibility to control costs while continuing to offer employees quality healthcare coverage. New Vision Healthcare works with companies to negotiate discounted rates with private hospitals and manage claims to contain healthcare spending for the trust.
The document discusses the history and current state of research on fetal pain. It summarizes that in the 1970s, the prevailing view was that fetuses and newborns could not feel pain. However, research in the 1980s by the author and colleagues established the biological structures and functions necessary to feel pain were present from early in fetal development, including nociceptors, nerves, and brain structures like the thalamus processing pain signals. The document provides extensive evidence from various studies that fetuses show physiological and behavioral responses to painful stimuli from as early as 13 weeks gestation, indicating they are capable of experiencing pain.
The document appears to be an agenda for the 2011 convention of South Dakota Right to Life. The agenda lists times and topics for various sessions over the course of the convention, including discussions on informed consent, the abortion agenda, pro-life art, and grassroots organization. It also introduces several of the scheduled speakers, such as Carol Tobias and Rep. Jenna Haggar.
Bold Shoes aimed to be a market leader through their "4A's Strategy" and increasing shareholder value. They invested in expanding capacity, increased advertising and CSR initiatives, reviewed pricing, and focused on revenue growth over the years. As a result, Bold Shoes maximized output and market share, maintaining sales and earnings above industry averages. Their strategic actions positioned them as a sustainable market leader and investors' choice.
The document discusses the history and current state of research on fetal pain. It describes how in the 1970s, the prevailing view was that fetuses and newborns could not feel pain. However, research beginning in the 1980s found that fetuses have fully developed pain receptor pathways by 8 weeks gestation. It provides extensive evidence that fetuses can feel pain, including the presence of pain-sensing structures, neurotransmitters, hormonal and physiological responses to painful stimuli, and efforts to reduce fetal pain through anesthesia. The document rebuts common arguments against fetal pain such as lack of cortex, myelination, communication or memory.
The document discusses how thoughts, feelings, and emotions can influence the body through various pathways and systems. It explores the mind-body connection through fields like psychophysiology, psychoneuroimmunology, and epigenetics. Experts explain how chronic negative thinking can negatively impact bodily functions over time by triggering disease or weakening the immune system. The body's stress response, immune system, DNA expression, and other processes are interconnected with the mind in complex ways not fully understood. Suppressing emotions and persistent negative thoughts can cumulatively impact health through these mind-body mechanisms.
Assignment Details
Open Date
Apr 2, 2018 12:05 AM
Graded?
Yes
Points Possible
100.0
Resubmissions Allowed?
No
Attachments checked for originality?
Yes
Top of Form
Assignment Instructions
In a five paragraph essay (600 minimum words) using your favorite theorist, apply that theory to brain development as it was discussed in our readings. You may also include the impact of culture, early physical growth, and similar factors that impact the overall development of the child.
See attached rubric for grading details.
Supporting Materials
·
308 Assignment 3. Rubric.doc
(50 KB)
Bottom of Form
The Physical Development of the Young Child
Take a moment and think about a newborn infant--at birth, human infants are, essentially, completely vulnerable and helpless. Unlike many animals, they cannot walk, consume solid food, or manage even the most basic tasks for their own survival. This is the price we pay for our brains--we are born far less developed than many creatures. Over the course of a very short time, around two years, that helpless newborn learns to walk and talk, to manipulate objects, to engage and participate in the world around her.
This transition from a helpless newborn to a toddler or preschooler requires massive amounts of
learning
, fueled by rapid brain growth, sensorimotor development, and physical growth. The infant, from birth, uses his ability to perceive to learn and develop an understanding of the world around him.
TOPICS COVERED WILL INCLUDE:
Brain development during infancy and toddlerhood at the larger level of the cerebral cortex.
Learning through classical conditioning, operant conditioning, habituation and recovery, and imitation.
Dynamic Systems theory of motor development, highlighting cultural variations in motor development.
Gibsons’ Differentiation Theory of perceptual development.
The Development of the Brain
Brain development in the first two years of life is fascinating and awe-inspiring. Most of the physical growth of the brain occurs during the first two years of life. Neuroscience has shed light on the development of
neurons
and the
cerebral cortex
in particular. At birth, infants have approximately one hundred billion neurons. Relatively few neurons will be produced after birth. The newborn’s neurons are connected only tentatively. In the first years, essential connections between neurons form. Combined with understanding sensitive periods and the role of the environment, we have a much clearer picture of what is happening in the infant and toddler brain today than ever before.
Note the lobes of the brain
Development of Neurons
Neurons firing in the brain
Neurons are nerve cells in the brain that store and transmit information. In total, the human brain has between 100 to 200 billion of these neurons.
‹
1/4
›
· Neurons send messages from one to another through tiny gaps, called
synapses
. These messages travel on chemicals called neur ...
Health and Disease by Iridology Examination - Professor Serge JurasunasSheldon Stein
Professor Jurasunas offers an introductory overview to the history and practice of Iridology. He draws from his 50 years of clinical practice and offers real life cases, emphasizing the value of Iridology as a diagnostic tool, explaining the relationship between the iris, nervous system, and body's organs, as well as embryological development.
This chapter from the book "Why Can't We Love Them Both" discusses evidence that fetuses can feel pain by 8 weeks gestation. It notes that the necessary neurological structures are present by this age. It provides examples of fetuses reacting physically to stimuli through movements and changes in heart rate. Further evidence is discussed from studies measuring hormone responses and brain activity. The possibility of fetal pain during abortions is also addressed.
This document discusses brain plasticity and development. It begins with a review of concepts from the previous class, including that neural stem cells can give rise to both neurons and glial cells. It then discusses mechanisms of cortical development from the inside out via neuronal migration. The document reviews findings from longitudinal MRI studies showing cortical thinning from childhood to adolescence reflects pruning of synapses and myelination. It also summarizes studies finding brain differences at 6 months in infants who later develop autism versus those who do not. Finally, it discusses forms of learning in newborns including classical and operant conditioning, and how sleep facilitates memory and brain development in infants.
I apologize, upon reviewing the document and summaries provided, I do not have enough context to generate a high-quality summary in 3 sentences or less. The document discusses several topics related to neural reflexes and the gastrointestinal system at a technical level without clearly connecting the information or stating an overarching purpose or conclusion. A summary would require making assumptions beyond what is directly stated. It may be better if you can provide a different document with a clearer focus to summarize.
Neuroplasticity: The Brain That Changes ItselfS'eclairer
The document discusses neuroplasticity and how the brain can change itself through experiences like stress, beliefs, environment, and activities. It provides examples of research that shows how thinking patterns can impact health conditions like heart disease, how environments and experiences can influence gene expression, and how cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can help rewire the brain and reduce symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder.
This document discusses whether a fetus can experience consciousness or pain. It explores the development of fetal neurology and the minimal requirements for consciousness. While fetuses develop stress responses to stimuli early in gestation, consciousness requires integrated processing and coordination between brain structures and rhythms. The fetal brain structures and electrical rhythms involved in consciousness in newborns are present in utero by the third trimester, suggesting fetuses could potentially experience a rudimentary form of consciousness late in development. However, more research is needed to fully understand fetal neurology and experience.
1) A study of fetal anatomy shows that by 20 weeks gestation, the brain structures necessary for consciousness (thalamus and related areas) are developed and accompanied by coordinated EEG rhythms, suggesting consciousness is possible by this point.
2) If a more stringent threshold of continuous EEG is required, consciousness would be possible by 30 weeks gestation.
3) If consciousness is possible beginning at 20-30 weeks gestation, it is also possible that fetuses could experience something like "pain" beginning at this point. The possibility of consciousness and pain would require appropriate anesthesia and analgesia for fetal surgery.
Infancy Physical Development Chapter 4 and 5Infan.docxjaggernaoma
Infancy: Physical Development
Chapter 4 and 5
Infant development progresses rapidly. Infants usually come into this world equipped to begin the journey of life!
1
Principles of Development
Cephalocaudal
Proximodistal
Cephalocaudal – refers to development as progressing from head to toe. Consider muscle development babies begin by being able to lift their head and then it progresses to ultimate control of muscles which would be walking.
Proximodistal refers to center out. Again consider the last area one gains control is the fingers.
2
Skeletal Growth
Skeletal Age
Epiphyses
Fontanels
The best estimate of a child’s physical maturity is skeletal age, which is a measure of development of the bones of the body.
Epiphyses are growth centers, that appear at the ends of the long end of the bones of the body. Cartilage cells continue to be produces at the growth plates of these epiphyses, which increase in number throughout childhood and then as growth continues, get thinner and disappear.
Skull growth is especially rapid between birth and 2 years of age due to large increases in brain size. At birth the bones of the skull are separated by gaps called fontanels. These gaps help during the birth process and also allow for brain development. There are 6 of these – the largest is the anterior gap. It will gradually shrink and fill in during the second year. The other fontanels are smaller and close more quickly. As the skull bones come in contact with one another, they form sutures or seams, these permit the skull to expand easily as the brain grows. The sutures will disappear when skull growth is complete, during the teen years.
3
Brain Development
Synaptic Pruning
Myelination
Cerebral Cortex
Prefrontal cortex
Hemispheres
Lateralization
Brain plasticity
At birth the brain is nearer to its adult size than any other physical structure.
Human brain has 100 to 200 billion neurons or nerve cells that store and transmit information. Between nuerons are tiny gaps or synapses, where fibers from different neurons come close together but do not touch. Neurons send messages to one another by releasing chemicals call neurotransmitters which cross the synapse. During infancy and toddlerhood, neural fibers and synapses increase dramatically. Because developing neurons require space for connective structures, as synapses form surrounding neurons will die. As neurons form connections, stimulation becomes vital for their survival. Neurons that are stimulated by input from the surrounding environment continue to establish new synapses, forming increasingly elaborate systems of communication that support more complex abilities. Neurons that are seldom stimulated soon lose their synapses, through synaptic pruning, which returns neurons not needed at the moment to an uncommitted state so they can support future development.
About half of the brain is made up of glial cells which are responsible for myelination, the coating of.
The Role Of Cytokines On Immune PrivilegeKaty Allen
- Immune privilege sites like the brain actively suppress inflammation to protect delicate tissues from damage. Cytokines play a role in maintaining this immune privilege.
- Experiments on mice found that chronic early-life stress impaired microglial function and rewired the brain's stress response pathways, causing depression-like behaviors in adulthood. Treating the stress hormone CRH reversed these effects.
- Exposure to toxins in tobacco smoke during development can alter brain cell proliferation, synaptic activity, and microglial function, potentially leading to neurological and cognitive impairments.
Cerebral function in_coma_vegetative_state_minimalMarcelaVargas96
This document discusses cerebral function in various states of altered consciousness including coma, vegetative state, minimally conscious state, locked-in syndrome, and brain death. It begins by defining key terms like consciousness, arousal, and awareness. It then provides clinical definitions for coma, vegetative state, and minimally conscious state. The document also reviews functional neuroanatomy of these conditions as assessed by positron emission tomography scanning.
Contributions of Neuroscience toOur Understanding of CognitiAlleneMcclendon878
Contributions of Neuroscience to
Our Understanding of Cognitive
Development
Adele Diamond1 and Dima Amso2
1
Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, and Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry,
BC Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada; and
2
Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology,
Weill Medical College of Cornell University
ABSTRACT—One major contribution of neuroscience to
understanding cognitive development has been in demon-
strating that biology is not destiny—that is, demonstrating
the remarkable role of experience in shaping the mind,
brain, and body. Only rarely has neuroscience provided
wholly new insights into cognitive development, but often
it has provided evidence of mechanisms by which obser-
vations of developmental psychologists could be explained.
Behavioral findings have often remained controversial
until an underlying biological mechanism for them was
offered. Neuroscience has demonstrated promise for de-
tecting cognitive problems before they are behaviorally
observable—and, hence, promise for early intervention. In
this article, we discuss examples drawn from imitation and
mirror neurons, phenylketonuria (PKU) and prefrontal
dopamine, maternal touch and stress reactivity, and non-
genetic (behavioral) intergenerational transmission of bi-
ological characteristics.
KEYWORDS—plasticity; epigenesis; mothering; executive
functions; animal models; molecular genetics; memory
Neuroscience research has made its greatest contributions to the
study of cognitive development by illuminating mechanisms
(providing a ‘‘how’’) that underlie behavioral observations made
earlier by psychologists. It has also made important contribu-
tions to our understanding of cognitive development by dem-
onstrating that the brain is far more plastic at all ages than
previously thought—and thus that the speed and extent by which
experience and behavior can shape the brain is greater than al-
most anyone imagined. In other words, rather than showing that
biology is destiny, neuroscience research has been at the fore-
front of demonstrating the powerful role of experience throughout
life. Besides the surprising evidence of the remarkable extent
of experience-induced plasticity, rarely has neuroscience given
us previously unknown insights into cognitive development, but
neuroscience does offer promise of being able to detect some
problems before they are behaviorally observable.
PROVIDING MECHANISMS THAT CAN ACCOUNT FOR
BEHAVIORAL RESULTS REPORTED BY
PSYCHOLOGISTS
Here we describe two examples of behavioral findings by psy-
chologists that were largely ignored or extremely controversial
until underlying biological mechanisms capable of accounting
for them were provided by neuroscience research. One such
example concerns cognitive deficits documented in children
treated early and continuously for phenylketonuria (PKU). The
second example involves neonatal imitation observed b ...
This document summarizes research from various disciplines showing how experiences during conception, pregnancy, birth, and early life can influence long-term health and well-being through epigenetic modifications. Studies with mice and rats showed that maternal stress and diet during pregnancy can alter DNA expression and behavior in offspring. Human studies confirm these effects, linking prenatal stress to increased risks of diseases. However, secure mother-infant attachment appears to promote resilience. New models of maternity care aim to reduce stress and enhance attachment.
1) Early hominid fossils date back around 3.7 million years ago in Tanzania belonging to Australopithecus, a small-brained bipedal species that later diversified and may have given rise to the genus Homo.
2) According to Paul MacLean's triune brain theory, the human brain evolved in three stages - the reptilian brain, old limbic system, and newer neocortex - with each newer section building upon the previous ones.
3) Genetic evidence suggests that genes related to brain development evolved more rapidly in human lineages compared to other primates or mammals, indicating strong natural selection for increased brain size and complexity unique to humans.
The biological perspective views behavior as arising from physiological and genetic factors that interact with the environment. Key aspects of this perspective include Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, research on the brain and nervous system using methods like experiments and case studies, and theories about how genes and biological processes influence behavior. Studies have linked specific behaviors to brain regions and shown that splitting the brain's hemispheres can produce two separate streams of awareness, supporting the biological view that the brain determines behavior. Gender differences are also studied from this perspective in terms of both nature and nurture influences.
Rethinking about fetal and Neonatal PsychologySamir Mounir
The document discusses several topics related to fetal and child psychology and development, including:
1. It describes how the fetus can sense, learn, and experience emotions in the womb through the development of senses like touch, taste, hearing, and vision from a very early stage.
2. Prenatal factors like maternal stress, nutrition, and exposure to substances can impact the fetal brain and predispose the child to later behavioral and mental health issues.
3. Newborns demonstrate preferences for their mothers and an ability to learn from experiences in-utero, showing they actively perceive and process information from a young age.
4. Early life experiences like maternal attachment, breastfeeding, and care
The Hoven Area Right to Life and Hoven Knights of Columbus have chartered a bus to take pro-lifers from the area to attend the Hour of Reflection and Life Chain Walk in Pierre, South Dakota on January 20th. The bus will leave from the Hoven grade school parking lot at 10:30 AM and return by 5:00 PM. Suggested donations are $15 per individual or $15 per family to help cover bus costs, and bagged lunches will be provided on the ride to Pierre.
Take advantage of Hoven Area Right to Life's special convention deal for admission! This reduced rate is available only to area pro-lifers and must be made through Hoven Area Right to Life.
This voter guide from South Dakota Right to Life provides ratings and positions for federal and state candidates in the November 6 general election. It summarizes each candidate's stances on issues like abortion, federal funding for abortion, and healthcare regulations related to abortion and reproductive rights. Voters are encouraged to consider candidates' pro-life positions and voting records when casting their ballots.
South Dakota Right to Life provides 2011-2012 pro-life legislative ratings for South Dakota state representatives and senators. Representatives and senators received a rating from 1 (most pro-life) to 13 for representatives and 1 to 11 for senators based on their voting record and sponsorship of pro-life legislation. The document lists the ratings assigned to each representative and senator.
The document discusses the evolution of pain perception and evidence that fetal pain perception may develop earlier than previously thought. It notes that by the third month of development, the fetal nervous system is developed enough to experience pain, as evidenced by studies showing fish and other early evolutionary stages can feel pain. Additional studies on fetal learning and responses to stimuli in the womb provide evidence for a level of consciousness and pain perception before the third trimester. While some research disputes these findings, the document argues that the ability to perceive and avoid harm is necessary for survival and is thus an evolved trait present early in development.
The document discusses evidence that fetuses are capable of feeling pain from as early as 8 weeks gestation. It notes that by 20 weeks gestation, the fetal brain has a full complement of neurons and EEG recordings are possible, indicating the fetus is capable of experiencing pain from 20 weeks onward. The document also discusses the gene c-fos, which is activated in response to painful stimuli and is a marker for pain in the central nervous system. Fos expression has been found in fetal bones as early as 16 weeks gestation, suggesting the fetus is capable of feeling pain from that point.
This document discusses anesthesia considerations for fetal surgery. It summarizes that:
1) Fetal surgery pushes boundaries by treating the developing fetus, requiring integration of obstetric and pediatric anesthesia. Both the mother and fetus must be anesthetized.
2) Anesthetizing a pregnant woman presents challenges due to physiological changes that increase sensitivity to drugs and affect airway management, circulation, and gastric contents.
3) Fetal physiology is also complex, as neurologic pathways are still developing and the placenta acts as the organ of respiration and circulation. The effects of anesthetic agents on the developing fetus require further study.
Strategies for Effective Upskilling is a presentation by Chinwendu Peace in a Your Skill Boost Masterclass organisation by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan on 08th and 09th June 2024 from 1 PM to 3 PM on each day.
ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, and GDPR: Best Practices for Implementation and...PECB
Denis is a dynamic and results-driven Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a distinguished career spanning information systems analysis and technical project management. With a proven track record of spearheading the design and delivery of cutting-edge Information Management solutions, he has consistently elevated business operations, streamlined reporting functions, and maximized process efficiency.
Certified as an ISO/IEC 27001: Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Lead Implementer, Data Protection Officer, and Cyber Risks Analyst, Denis brings a heightened focus on data security, privacy, and cyber resilience to every endeavor.
His expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of reporting, database, and web development applications, underpinned by an exceptional grasp of data storage and virtualization technologies. His proficiency in application testing, database administration, and data cleansing ensures seamless execution of complex projects.
What sets Denis apart is his comprehensive understanding of Business and Systems Analysis technologies, honed through involvement in all phases of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). From meticulous requirements gathering to precise analysis, innovative design, rigorous development, thorough testing, and successful implementation, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Throughout his career, he has taken on multifaceted roles, from leading technical project management teams to owning solutions that drive operational excellence. His conscientious and proactive approach is unwavering, whether he is working independently or collaboratively within a team. His ability to connect with colleagues on a personal level underscores his commitment to fostering a harmonious and productive workplace environment.
Date: May 29, 2024
Tags: Information Security, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Artificial Intelligence, GDPR
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Slideshare: http://www.slideshare.net/PECBCERTIFICATION
it describes the bony anatomy including the femoral head , acetabulum, labrum . also discusses the capsule , ligaments . muscle that act on the hip joint and the range of motion are outlined. factors affecting hip joint stability and weight transmission through the joint are summarized.
The simplified electron and muon model, Oscillating Spacetime: The Foundation...RitikBhardwaj56
Discover the Simplified Electron and Muon Model: A New Wave-Based Approach to Understanding Particles delves into a groundbreaking theory that presents electrons and muons as rotating soliton waves within oscillating spacetime. Geared towards students, researchers, and science buffs, this book breaks down complex ideas into simple explanations. It covers topics such as electron waves, temporal dynamics, and the implications of this model on particle physics. With clear illustrations and easy-to-follow explanations, readers will gain a new outlook on the universe's fundamental nature.
How to Build a Module in Odoo 17 Using the Scaffold MethodCeline George
Odoo provides an option for creating a module by using a single line command. By using this command the user can make a whole structure of a module. It is very easy for a beginner to make a module. There is no need to make each file manually. This slide will show how to create a module using the scaffold method.
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty, In...Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty,
International FDP on Fundamentals of Research in Social Sciences
at Integral University, Lucknow, 06.06.2024
By Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
How to Make a Field Mandatory in Odoo 17Celine George
In Odoo, making a field required can be done through both Python code and XML views. When you set the required attribute to True in Python code, it makes the field required across all views where it's used. Conversely, when you set the required attribute in XML views, it makes the field required only in the context of that particular view.
Executive Directors Chat Leveraging AI for Diversity, Equity, and InclusionTechSoup
Let’s explore the intersection of technology and equity in the final session of our DEI series. Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be used to support and enhance your nonprofit's DEI initiatives. Participants will gain insights into practical AI applications and get tips for leveraging technology to advance their DEI goals.
This slide is special for master students (MIBS & MIFB) in UUM. Also useful for readers who are interested in the topic of contemporary Islamic banking.
Chapter 4 - Islamic Financial Institutions in Malaysia.pptx
Zielinski fetal pain summary
1. To understand some of the advanced concepts in Fetal Pain, you must first have an understanding of
fetal pain basics. Three components are necessary for establishing the presence of fetal pain. First, the
necessary structures, which include nociceptors, nerve pathways and the thalamus. Second, function,
established through electrical, neurotransmitter or hormonal activity and finally, observation of an
aversive response to a noxious stimulus.
In addition, one needs to understand evolutionary concepts of pain development and how they favor
early development of pain sensation and response. One of the theories associated with evolutionary
development is that "Ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny". This is known as the recapitulation (or brief
repetition') theory. Ontogeny is the growth and development of an individual organism – for example,
the human embryo; phylogeny is the evolutionary history of a species. Haeckel, who formulated the
recapitulation theory, claims that the changes in size and shape that constitute growth and
development of advanced species passes through stages represented by adult organisms of more
primitive species. Otherwise put, each successive stage in the development of an individual represents
one of the adult forms that appeared in its evolutionary history. Even more simply the development of
the individual repeats the evolution of the race. A corollary to Haeckel’s theory is that primitive functional
abilities, possessed by the more primitive evolutionary species, appear at the time those evolutionary
stages appear.
How does this apply to human fetal pain theory? Well, one of the earliest “stages” of fetal development
is the Fish stage. Well, fish feel pain. In a 2003 study, researchers from the University of Edinburgh shot
bee venom into the lips of trout. The bee-stung fish rubbed their lips in the gravel of their tank and
generally demonstrated aversive behavior. The researchers, led by Dr Lynne Sneddon, say the
"profound behavioural and physiological changes" shown by the trout after exposure to noxious
substances are comparable to those seen in higher mammals. They investigated the fish for the
presence of nociceptors, sites that respond to tissue-damaging stimuli and found an extensive array of
such receptors. These polymodal receptors are the first to be found in fish, and resemble those in
amphibians, birds and mammals, including humans. The research, by a team from the Roslin Institute, is
published in Proceedings B of the Royal Society, the UK's national academy of science.
There is a new study out that also contends fish feel pain. A professor at Purdue and his Norwegian
graduate student attached small foil heaters to goldfish. In the (2009) Journal - Applied Animal
Behavior Science, Purdue University Assistant Professor Joseph Garner and Janicke Nordgreen, a
doctoral student in the Norwegian School of Veterinary Science performed the research where half of
the goldfish were injected with morphine, half with saline, and then the researchers turned on the
attached micro-heaters. After the heat was gone, the fish without painkillers "acted with defensive
behaviors, indicating wariness, or fear and anxiety." This indicates that the fish consciously perceive
pain in the test and had memory for the pain.
Before the 2003 and 2009 research, opponents cited the work of Dr. James Rose, a professor of zoology
and physiology at the University of Wyoming. He wrote a paper in 2002 debunking the idea that
experiments such as injecting fish with bee venom and then observing their behavior leads to any
reasonable conclusions about fish pain. He argues that fish don't have the neurological capacity to
experience the "psychological aspect" of pain. They react to pain, but they cannot mentally process
"pain" when painful things happen to them. It's the human observer who puts these mental states on
the fish. The 2009 fish study effectively debunked his assertions.
2. The 2003 and 2009 studies show fish are able to form sensory memories. For instance, trout can
remember how to avoid getting caught in fishing nets months after the initial experience, memories of it
stick in their brains.
Scientific American stated: New research suggests that (fish) may feel and remember pain, revealing
that their nervous system may be more complex than we thought—and our own awareness of pain may
be much more evolutionarily ancient than suspected.
Which leads us into our next topic, which is the question of fetal consciousness versus instinct or
reflex. Instinct or innate behavior is the inherent inclination of a living organism toward a particular
behavior. The simplest example of an instinctive behavior is a fixed action pattern, such as a bird
building a nest, in which a short sequence of actions, without variation, are carried out in response to a
clearly defined stimulus. An early researcher on instinct, Fabre, considered instinct to be any behavior
which did not require cognition or consciousness to perform. Freudian Psychoanalysts have stated that
instinct refers to human motivational forces (such as sex and aggression) outside of our control or ability
to alter.
A simple definition of consciousness is sensory awareness of the body, the self, and the world. I would
go beyond that to say some level of consciousness must be present if one is capable of remembering or
altering behavior in response to changes in the environment. Such decision-making must take place at a
higher level than mere reflex.
Several studies suggest that children can learn while they are still in the womb. For example, newborns
prefer the sound of their own mother's voice. In one experiment, they learned to change their pattern
of sucking in order to activate a recording of their mother's voice instead of that of another woman. The
preference appears to have been acquired before birth.
In another case, newborns preferred the sound of their mother's voice when it was adjusted to
resemble what they might have heard in the womb. In an even more amazing study, newborns stopped
crying and responded to songs played on shows that their mothers watched while they were pregnant.
Prenatal learning seems to extend to the sense of taste as well. Mothers who maintained the same diet
before and after they gave birth were more successful in breastfeeding than mothers who changed to a
less spicy diet. This may reflect the child's preference for food the mother ate while she was pregnant
because the mother's milk contains clues about her diet.
Even the olfactory system in the womb is functional from the second month onwards, and the baby can
not only taste the food that you have eaten, but also smell it by its fragrance in the amniotic fluid.
Assertions of fetal consciousness seem to center around the 20th week and certain events occur around
this time that favors this belief.
At 20 weeks, the fetal brain has the full complement of neurons present in adulthood.
Lagercrantz H et. al. Lakartidningen 1991;88:1880-85 (Ranalli)
3. By 19-20 weeks, the earliest electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings are possible.
Flower MJ. J Med Philos 1985;10:237-251 (Ran)
From 20 weeks and beyond, the fetus is fully capable of experiencing pain.
Expert testimony from Dr. Robert White, pediatric neurosurgeon, before U.S. Congress,
June 15, 1995 (Ran)
Opioid receptor labeling in the brain stem of fetuses at 19-21 weeks gestation demonstrate very high
densities in supraspinal centers associated with sensory perception. These inhibitory opioid receptors
may be the only protection for the developing neuronal systems from constant over stimulation, given
the overall underdeveloped gate control mechanism in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. (Wright)
And the physical response to painful stimuli by unborn children undergoing fetal surgery can be blocked
by the administration of fentanyl, a potent narcotic.
The eyelids start opening at around 20 weeks gestation and the child can perceive light from outside.
In a 1998 article by Wade, the author asserted:
In recent years, prenatal research has demonstrated that fetuses are far more sophisticated
than previously thought, findings generally ignored by the medical and psychological
establishment in part because the neurological structures traditionally associated with mentation
were not believed to be functional. Recent research on memory suggests that consciousness
may not be dependent on the central nervous system, or even on the body. Using each major
theory of memory and neurological research to examine the prenatal data, this paper concludes
that two sources of consciousness are present before and during birth constructing a single
subjective experience of self.
Also see “Changes of Mind: A Holonomic theory of the evolution of Consciousness”
By 18 weeks, or as Aquinas would say, quickening, purposeful movements of the unborn child are a
regular occurrence. These include positioning within the womb, preference for handedness, including
thumb sucking, and activity against the external environment. We know categorically that full body
sensation and response is present in all limbs, including a memory component. How can this be? Simply
put, due to the lack of self-harm.
While this concept may seem difficult at first, consider for the moment the diabetic - or any patient with
peripheral neuropathy. The lack of sensation in lower legs and feet regularly results in injury, often
4. associated with severe trauma, but without the awareness of injury. The end result can be infection,
amputation and even death. But despite the jumps, bumps and pounding associated with quickening,
we see no intrauterine injury. No maceration or deformity of limbs. The lack of these injuries implies at
least some degree of intrauterine sensation and activity modulation, including primitive memory. My
hat is off, therefore, to Thomas Aquinas, The FATHER of fetal pain.
Not all science is supportive of these concepts. In a study of EEG patterns in foetal sheep it was alleged:
“Consciousness appears for the first time after birth. We conclude the embryo and foetus cannot suffer before or
during birth. Suffering can only occur in the newborn when the onset of breathing oxygenates its tissues,” Mellor
said. Since the fetus is oxygenated throughout the time in the womb, how does the brain know that the oxygen it
is getting comes from it’s own lungs and not from the placenta? No explanation is provided. And if the fetus is
indeed in a sleep state, as some claim, then what is quickening? – The earliest example of restless leg syndrome?
Finally, we need to consider genetic aspects of development and the importance of the pain response.
In an article on Genetic Influences on Pain Perception and Treatment
Alyson Fincke stated quote:
From a Darwinian perspective, nociceptive pain is impossible to eliminate nor is it desirable to do so.
Nociception is essential for survival and, if a variation in a pain mechanism gene alters the function of a
nociception-related molecule, the survival rate would be diminished. For instance, without pain
mechanisms, people would not recognize the danger of leaving their hand on a hot stove. Mutations
leading to decreased pain sensitivity occur in well under 1% of the population and lead to frequent
injuries and inadvertent self-mutilation, which are incompatible with longevity or transmission to
offspring. The limited number of individuals who have this mutation makes it difficult to produce a
strong study, as that would require a large number of participants. While it is necessary to perceive pain
from a survival standpoint, we must strive to manage pain pathways when they go awry and fire in the
absence of noxious stimuli.
Even with that basis, there are significant differences in individual pain sensation and response. For
example, A person’s level of the enzyme catecholamine-O-methytransferase (COMT)—the enzyme that
controls levels of adrenaline, noadrenalin and dopamine—is an indicator of how sensitive that individual
is to painful stimulation. Humans’ genetic variants of COMT fall into one of three variations that give
them high, average or low pain sensitivity.
And among other genetic oddities, redheads have been shown to be more sensitive to pain than
average, often requiring 20% more anesthetic to reach the same level of pain relief.
And in the latest research on the genetic origins of pain
from:http://www.anaesthetist.com/icu/pain/Findex.htm#pain3.htm
Probably the most significant discovery ever in the field of pain has
been the gene c-fos. The cellular analogue of a viral oncogene (cancer),
5. this rather special gene and its cellular product, the protein called Fos
seem crucial to the profound central nervous system changes that
occur when an animal (or man) feels pain. Central nervous system c-fos
expression correlates extremely well with painful stimulation.
Generically, Fos is one of the inducible transcription factors (ITFs) that
controls mammalian gene expression.
We now have a molecular marker for pain! Even more important, we
know that because c-fos is a proto-oncogene - that is, it can promote
vast intracellular changes including cellular restructuring and
proliferation - it is almost certainly involved in the long-term
neurological consequences of noxious stimulation.
An incidental note - FOS has been found in the fetal bones at least as
early as the 16th week of gestation.