National Institutes of Health( NIH): The NIH is one of the world’ s foremost medical research centers and the federal focal point for medical research in the United States. The NIH, comprising 27 separate Institutes and Centers, is one of eight health agencies of the Public Health Service that, in turn, is part of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Necrosis: Cell death.
Nervous System: The nervous system of the human body is divided into two interconnected systems: the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain and spinal cord; and the peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nervous system is further divided into the somatic nervous system( made up of peripheral nerve fibers that send sensory information to the central nervous system and motor nerve fibers that project to skeletal muscle) and the autonomic nervous system regulating the functions of our internal organs such as the heart, stomach, and intestines, but also muscles in the skin( around hair follicles and smooth muscles around blood vessels, in the eye( the iris), stomach, intestines, bladder, and heart( cardiac muscle).
Neurodegenerative: Marked by or pertaining to neurologic degeneration; deterioration of the structure or function of tissue within the nervous system.
Neuroimaging: The production of detail, contrast, and clearness in images of the brain and spinal cord( central nervous system) using computed tomography( CT) scanning, magnetic resonance imaging( MRI), positron emission tomography( PET) scanning, or other imaging techniques to assist in diagnosis, treatment decisions, or research.
Neuron: An individual nerve cell.
Neuropsychologist: Usually a state-licensed psychologist with expertise in evaluating and treating people who suffer from a brain disorder or organic problem. Neuropsychologists may play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional problems caused by brain dysfunction.
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Neurotoxin: A substance that interferes with the functioning of nerve cells( neurons), preventing them from communicating with each other.
Neurotransmitter: A specialized substance( such as norepinephrine or acetylcholine) that transfers nerve impulses across spaces between nerve cells( synapses). Neurotransmitters are naturally produced chemicals by which nerve cells communicate. Neurotoxins can also lead to neurodegeneration, causing cell death and brain atrophy.
Nucleus: The part of the cell that contains the genetic material( the chromosomes); it is surrounded by a membrane called the nuclear envelope.
Nurses: People who care for individuals of all ages, families, groups, and communities, sick or well in all settings. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled, and dying people. Other important roles nurses assume include patient advocacy, promoting safe environments, conducting research, and participating in shaping health policy, health systems management, and health education.
Nursing Home: Also known as skilled nursing facilities and long-term care facilities, nursing homes are licensed by the states to provide skilled, 24-hour nursing and rehabilitation care. Generally, older adults who are bedridden, cannot feed themselves, or who require skilled nursing assistance are appropriate for this level of care.