Neuroimaging Techniques
Spectacular discoveries in neuroscience have been rendered possible with advances in neuroimaging technology. Aside from other methodology, such as electrophysiology (single and multiple electrode recording, EEG – electroencephalography) and lesion studies, brain imaging has allowed neuroscientists to shed light on cortical mechanisms and processes. For example, by and large the most common method, fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging), takes advantage of changes in blood flow and BOLD (Blood Oxygen Level Dependent) signals to localize activity in certain parts of the cerebrum.
Rainbow. Neuroimaging data is often in very bright colors on a dark background. Image: Copyright © Megan Jorgensen (Elena)
Due to the cortex being active in its entirety (as opposed to extreme modularity outlined in discarded phrenological views), the subtraction method is employed to determine neural correlates. The two images are juxtaposed and subtracted, leaving pictures of only those clusters that were activated by given stimuli. Other popular methods include MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography) scans, and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
Copyright © 2011 Megan Jorgensen. All rights reserved.
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