"Neuroimaging is the use of quantitative (computational) techniques to study the structure and function of the central nervous system..."
The study of the different techniques used to study the brain's structure and function, including fMRI, PET, and EEG.
Brain anatomy: Understanding the basic structure and function of the brain is essential to interpreting brain imaging techniques.
Neuroimaging modalities: There are several neuroimaging techniques like fMRI, MRI, PET, and CT that are useful in studying the functioning of the brain.
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI): This is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures changes in blood flow in response to neural activity in the brain.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and other tissues.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET): PET uses a radioactive tracer to produce images of brain activity based on the distribution of the tracer within the brain.
Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans use X-rays to produce detailed images of the brain and other tissues.
Spatial resolution versus temporal resolution: Spatial resolution refers to the ability to identify the location of neural activity within the brain, while temporal resolution refers to the ability to identify the timing of neural activity.
Brain mapping: The process of identifying the neural correlates of specific cognitive functions, such as language or attention.
Cognitive neuroscience: The study of the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive processes.
Neurolinguistics: The study of the neural mechanisms underlying language processing and production.
Language comprehension: The ability to understand spoken or written language.
Language production: The ability to produce spoken or written language.
Syntax: The rules governing the structure of sentences.
Semantics: The study of meaning in language.
Pragmatics: The study of how language is used in context.
Neuroplasticity: The ability of the brain to reorganize itself in response to experience.
Resting-state fMRI: This is a technique that measures spontaneous brain activity in the absence of a specific task.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI): This technique measures the diffusion of water molecules in the brain, providing information about the structure of neural pathways.
Event-related potential (ERP): This technique measures changes in brain activity in response to specific stimuli, such as words or pictures.
EEG (electroencephalogram): A recording technique that measures electrical activity in the brain.
Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the brain's structure. It can reveal abnormalities such as tumors, bleeding, and blood clots.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of brain anatomy. It can reveal structural abnormalities and detect changes in brain tissue density.
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS): MRS is a form of MRI that measures the chemical composition of the brain. It can detect changes in the levels of neurotransmitters and other chemicals.
Positron emission tomography (PET): PET involves injecting a small amount of radioactive substance into the body and imaging the brain as the substance is absorbed. It can reveal brain activity and metabolic changes associated with neurological disorders.
Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT): SPECT, like PET, involves injecting a radioactive substance into the body and imaging the brain as the substance is absorbed. It can reveal blood flow and other metabolic changes in the brain.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI): FMRI uses MRI technology to measure changes in blood flow in the brain as an indicator of activity. It can reveal changes in brain activity associated with cognitive and affective processes.
Electroencephalography (EEG): EEG records electrical activity in the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. It can detect abnormalities in brain waves associated with various neurological disorders.
Magnetoencephalography (MEG): MEG is similar to EEG, but records magnetic fields rather than electrical activity. It can provide more precise information about the timing and location of brain activity.
Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS): NIRS uses light to measure changes in blood flow and oxygen levels in the brain. It can be used to study brain activity during cognitive tasks and in patient populations.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS involves delivering short magnetic pulses to the brain through the scalp. It can temporarily interfere with brain activity and be used to study brain function and treat neuropsychiatric disorders.
"...developed as an objective way of scientifically studying the healthy human brain in a non-invasive manner."
"...it is also being used for quantitative research studies of brain disease and psychiatric illness."
"Neuroimaging is highly multidisciplinary involving neuroscience, computer science, psychology, and statistics..."
"Neuroradiology is a medical specialty and uses non-statistical brain imaging in a clinical setting..."
"Neuroradiology primarily focuses on recognizing brain lesions, such as vascular disease, strokes, tumors, and inflammatory disease."
"In contrast to neuroimaging, neuroradiology is qualitative..."
"Functional brain imaging techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), are common in neuroimaging..."
"...but rarely used in neuroradiology."
"Neuroimaging falls into two broad categories: structural imaging and functional imaging..."
"Structural imaging, which is used to quantify brain structure..."
"...using e.g., voxel-based morphometry."
"Functional imaging, which is used to study brain function..."
"...often using fMRI and other techniques such as PET and MEG (see below)."
"Neuroimaging is not a medical specialty."
"...non-statistical brain imaging in a clinical setting, practiced by radiologists who are medical practitioners."
"Neuroradiology is qualitative (based on subjective impressions and extensive clinical training)..."
"Neuroimaging uses quantitative (computational) techniques..."
"...used for quantitative research studies of brain disease and psychiatric illness."
"Neuroimaging is highly multidisciplinary involving neuroscience, computer science, psychology, and statistics..."