researchmethodsinbiopsychology.pptVIP

RESEARCH METHODS IN BIOPSYCHOLOGY LECTURE NOTES Based on Pinel, Chapter 5 METHODS TO STUDY THE NERVOUS SYSTEM Brain Imaging Brain Stimulation Techniques in Living Humans Psychophysiological Techniques Invasive Physiological Methods Neuropharmacological Methods Genetic Engineering BEHAVIORAL METHODS IN BIOPSYCHOLOGY Neuropsychological Testing Behavioral Methods in Cognitive Neuroscience Animal Behavior Paradigms IMAGING STIMULATING THE LIVING BRAIN Contrast X-rays cerebral angiography Computed Tomography CT Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI Positron Emission Tomography PET Functional MRI fMRI Magnetoencephalography MEG Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation TMS CT SCANS MRI SCANS A strong magnetic field causes hydrogen atoms to align in the same orientation. When a radio frequency wave is passed through the head, atomic nuclei emit electromagnetic energy. The MRI scanner is tuned to detect radiation emitted from the hydrogen molecules. Computer reconstructs image. MRI VS. CT SCANS PET SCANS A positron emitting radionuclide is injected e.g., 2-deoxyglucose . Positrons interact with electrons which produce photons gamma rays traveling in opposite directions. PET scanner detects the photons. Computer determines how many gamma rays from a particular region and a map is made showing areas of high to low activity. PET Versus CAT CAT scans show brain structures. PET scans reveal brain activity. CAT involves absorption of X-rays. PET involves emission of radiation by an injected or inhaled isotope. FUNCTIONAL MRI Images brain hemodynamics. Advantages over PET: No injections need to be given Structure and Function Shorter imaging time Better spatial resolution 3-D images Check out this website for more info on fMRI methods: /fmri.htm Magnetoencephalography MEG MEG measures changes in magnetic fields on the scalp surface that are produced by changes in patterns of neural activity. Advantage over fMRI faster temporal resolution Advantage over EEG great