-
Axon
A branchlike structure that conveys electrical messages outward from a neuron's cell body and toward the synapse
-
Body Mass Index
A measure of weight in relation to height
-
Colostrum
A thick, yellowish fluid, richer in protein and protective antibodies than the breast milk that is produced a few days after birth
-
Complementary Feeding
The transition from exclusive breastfeeding or formula-feeding to the inclusion of solid in an infant's diet
-
Dendrites
A branchlike structure that convey electrical messages from the ssynapse and toward a neuron's cell body
-
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
A measure of the brain'a activity that uses external electrodes placed on the scalp
-
Experience-Dependent
Aspects of brain development that develop solely as a result of a person's experiences
-
Experience-Expectant
Aspects of brain development that "expect" to have certain kinds of stimulation and are ready to develop once they receive it
-
Failure to Thrive
Growth stunting that is caused by deprivation of physical contact
-
Infant Mortality Rates
Statistic representing the number of infants who die before reaching the age of 1 year
-
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An imaging technology that reveals the brain's structure
-
Maltreatment
Neglect, medical neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or psychological abuse
-
Micronutrient Deficiency
A form of malnutrition that occurs when insufficient amounts of minerals and vitamins are consumed in the diet
-
Myelin
A fatty covering that insulates axons and increases the efficiency of neural functioning
-
Neurotransmitters
Biochemical substances that transmit information between neurons through release and uptake at synapses
-
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
An imaging technology that shows the amount of activity in the brain
-
Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM)
A form of malnutrition that occurs when insufficient amounts of protein and calories are consumed in the diet
-
Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS)
A form of malnutrition in which an angry or frustrated adult shakes an infant violently, resulting in brain damage or even death
-
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
The diagnosis given when an infant younger than 1 year dies and a complete investigation is unable to identify a specific cause
-
Synapses
Spaces between neurons, in which biochemical messages are released and absorbed
-
Synaptogenesis
Formation of synapses in a network of neurons
-
Vesicles
Neurontransmitter storage spaces at the end of the axon
|
|
