2. How do we differentiate intensity? Ex hot vs warm?

3. Intensity is determined by:
1. the number of neurons that fire simultaneously
2. the frequency at which the neurons fire
3. the threshold level of different neurons (lower threshold neurons are more likely to fire, and are found in more “sensitive” areas)

4. The Effects of Drugs
Drug – anything that is not food that alters the normal bio-chemistry of the body in some way.

5. Stimulant – mimics neurotransmitter, decreases rate of breakdown of neurotransmitter or increases release of neurotransmitter
Depressant – blocks receptor site, decreases production of neurotransmitter, or increases the breakdown of neurotransmitter

6. Alcohol: - depressant -seems to enhance GABA
-leads to lack of coordinated response, and loss of normal social inhibitions.
-may also weaken the effect of glutamine, an excitatory neurotransmitter, leading to sluggishness and lack of co-ordination.
Close to Home Animation: Alcohol

7. Marijuana:
- a depressant and hallucinogen
-acts on the canniboid receptors of the brain that affect concentration, perception and movement.
-may have an impact on the activity of seratonin, GABA and norepinephrine in the brain
not physically addicting, however this is a gateway drug and may be psychologically addicting

8. Cocaine:
-a stimulant
-blocks the re-uptake of dopamine, causing an adrenaline like effect from the dopamine
-as dopamine levels increase in the synapse, the body produces less, thus making cocaine very physically addicting
Close to Home Animation: Cocaine

9. Crystal meth:
-a stimulant
-passes directly through neuron membranes and causes excessive release of dopamine
-leads to feelings of euphoria, psychosis, delusions and extreme aggressiveness.

10. Ecstasy:
- a stimulant and hallucinogen
-affects neurons in the brain by causing an over-production of serotonin.
-creates shorter feelings of pleasure, however use can result in brain damage, and cardiac arrest.

11. The venom of the black widow spider is called “latrotoxin”
The venom of the black widow spider is called “latrotoxin”. This toxin results in a massive release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from the neuromuscular junctions of victims and may cause muscle spasms, pain, increased blood pressure, nausea and vomiting.