Brain arousal and information theory : neural and genetic mechanisms / Donald Pfaff.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Pfaff, Donald W., 1939-

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Arousal (Physiology).

Information theory.

Neurogenetics.

Neurophysiology.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (216 p.)

Edition:

1st ed.

Place of Publication:

Cambridge, Mass. : Harvard University Press, 2006.

Language Note:

English

Summary:

In Brain Arousal and Information Theory, Donald Pfaff presents a daring perspective on the long-standing puzzle of what arousal is. Pfaff argues that, beneath our mental functions and emotional dispositions, a primitive neuronal system governs arousal. Employing the simple but powerful framework of information theory, Pfaff revolutionizes our understanding of arousal systems in the brain.

Contents:

Frontmatter

Contents

Preface and Dedication

1. Toward a Universal Theory of Brain Arousal

2. Anatomy Is Not Destiny, but a Little Neuroanatomy Helps

3. Arousal Is Signaled by Electrical Discharges in a System of Nerve Cells

4. Autonomic Nervous System Changes Supporting Arousal; the Unity of the Body

5. Genes Whose Neurochemical Products Support Arousal

6. Heightened States of Arousal: Sex Compared to Fear

7. Major Systems Questions about Brain Arousal Networks

8. Summary and Practical Importance: From Biological Mechanisms to Health Applications

Works Cited

Acknowledgments

Index

Notes:

Bibliographic Level Mode of Issuance: Monograph

Includes bibliographical references (p. 155-195) and index.

ISBN:

9780674042100

0674042107

OCLC:

431398899