Exam 4 Flashcards
Define explicit memory
Conscious LTM (ex: memorizing)
Define implicit memory
Unconscious LTM (ex: riding a bike)
Define episodic memory
LTM for events (ex: graduation)
Define semantic memory
LTM for facts, concepts (ex: remembering the capital of NY)
Describe how H.M, a patient with medial temporal lobe amnesia, performed differently on specific tests of memory (short term vs long term) (implicit vs explicit)
Short term memory- intact
Long term memory- impaired
Implicit LTM memory- intact
Explicit LTM memory- impaired
Why do we have one memory system that is conscious and another that is unconscious?
For flexibility. Implicit memories do not transfer well to different context, whereas explicit memories can.
How do the standard and current theories of consolidation differ?
Standard consolidation theory- memories are temporarily stored in the hippocampus until they can be transferred to a more stable cortical storage system
The current theories of consolidation suggests that the hippocampus and other structures play a role in storing a memory every time it is recalled. Ongoing recall makes memories more resistant to hippocampal damage
What is reconsolidation?
The hypothesis is that each time a memory is retrieved from long term storage, it is temporarily held in labile (changeable or stable) short term memory, where it is once again suspectible to post traumatic amnesia until it is reconsolidated.
Is reconsolidation consistent with the standard or current theory of consolidation?
Yes
How could reconsolidation lead to false or inaccurate memories?
When memory is held in labile short term memory you could unknowingly change your memory to something false because that state of memory is unstable.
When false memories are presented, they can stick in our memory in reconsolidation.
How did research with monkeys with a delayed non-match sample test provide insight about the neuroanatomical underpinnings of memory deficits?
Monkeys with medial temporal lobe lesions demonstrated impaired ability to remember new info after a delay, like humans suggesting that medial temporal lobe associated with explicit memory
Lashley’s research to determine the cortical areas that store memories of a particular type led two major conclusions, which are?
1) memories become more resistant to disruption over time
2) memories are stored diffusely in the brain and can survive destruction of any single structure
Which two qualities of LTP fit with the type of synaptic changes that Hebb suggested would underlie learning?
1) LTP can last for a long time (several months after multiple stimulations)
2) LTP develops only if firing of the presynaptic neuron is co-occurring with the firing of the postsynaptic neuron. (He be postulate for learning)
Describe two requirements for NMDA-mediated activation of postsynaptic neurons requires for LTP
1) postsynaptic cell is the receptor for glutamate
2) the postsynaptic cell must already be depolarizer by concurrent activation by non-NMDA receptors (co-occurrence of activity)
Has research support for difference among cerebral hemisphere functions increased or decreased in the last 20 years?
Decreased
