BINARY COLLICULUS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "binary colliculus" refers to a specific region in the midbrain called the superior colliculus, which plays a pivotal role in sensorimotor integration and visual processing. The binary colliculus is comprised of two symmetrical hemispheres, one situated on each side of the brainstem, and they are collectively responsible for coordinating various behavioral responses.
Located just below the thalamus, the binary colliculus serves as a vital center for reflexive eye and head movements, particularly in response to visual stimuli. It receives inputs from the retina and various other visual processing regions in the brain, as well as from auditory and somatosensory pathways. These inputs converge in the binary colliculus, allowing it to synthesize and integrate information from multiple sensory modalities.
The binary colliculus operates through a binary or on/off mechanism, where it essentially helps determine whether the stimulus is noteworthy or not. It does this by initiating rapid and precise eye movements, known as saccades, towards the relevant visual target. This process allows for efficient targeting of objects of interest within the environment, as well as swift orientation of the body towards potential threats or sources of reward.
Overall, the binary colliculus plays a fundamental role in the early stages of sensory processing and provides a crucial link between sensory input and motor output. Its intricate functions make it an integral part of the brain's circuitry, facilitating quick and efficient reactions to the surrounding world.
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Verumontanum, caput gallinaginis, an elevated portion of the crista urethralis about the center of the pars prostatica, on either side of which open the prostatic ducts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BINARY COLLICULUS
- binary colliculuq
- binary colliculur
- binnarycolliculus
- b inary colliculus
- bi nary colliculus
- bin ary colliculus
- bina ry colliculus
- binar y colliculus
- binary c olliculus
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- binary colli culus
- binary collic ulus
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- binary colliculu s
Etymology of BINARY COLLICULUS
The etymology of the term "binary colliculus" can be understood by analyzing the origins of each part of the phrase.
1. Binary: The term "binary" comes from the Latin word "binarius", which means "consisting of two" or "paired". It is related to the Latin word "bini", meaning "two by two". In modern usage, "binary" refers to something that is composed of or based on two elements or conditions.
2. Colliculus: The term "colliculus" is a Latin word that means "small hill" or "mound". It is the diminutive of "collis", which translates to "hill" or "mountain". In anatomy, a colliculus refers to a small elevation or prominence, usually found in the brain or other bodily organs.
