Brain imaging techniques

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Introduction to different brain imaging techniques, including MRI, CT scan, and PET scan. Their applications in diagnosing neurological disorders and research.

Neuroanatomy: The study of the organization and structure of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
Neuronal signaling: The process by which neurons communicate with each other through chemical and electrical signals.
Neurophysiology: The study of the function and activity of the nervous system, including how it processes information and generates behaviors.
Neurochemistry: The study of the chemical processes and neurotransmitters involved in neuronal communication.
Brain development: The process by which the brain develops and grows from embryonic stages through adulthood.
Neuroplasticity: The ability of the brain to change and adapt in response to experience or injury.
Neural network models: Computational models of neuronal activity that simulate the behavior of the nervous system.
Imaging techniques: Various methods used to visualize and study the structure and function of the brain, including MRI, CT, PET, and EEG.
Brain regions and functions: The identification and characterization of different regions of the brain and their associated functions.
Cognitive neuroscience: The study of the neural basis of cognition, including perception, attention, memory, language, and decision-making.
Neuropsychology: The study of brain damage and dysfunction and their effects on behavior and cognition.
Neurobiology of disease: The study of the neural mechanisms underlying various neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Neuroethics: The ethical implications and considerations involved in the use of brain imaging techniques and the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Brain-computer interfaces: The development of systems that enable direct communication between the brain and external devices or technology.
Brain mapping: The creation of detailed maps of the brain that identify the location and function of specific neuronal circuits and networks.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain’s tissues and structures.
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI): Measures changes in blood flow to different areas of the brain while engaging in specific tasks; used to observe brain activity.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET): Uses a radioactive tracer to measure brain activity in real time.
Computed Tomography (CT): Uses X-rays to create detailed images of the brain’s structures.
Electroencephalography (EEG): Measures electrical activity in the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp; used to diagnose seizure disorders and other brain abnormalities.
Magnetoencephalography (MEG): Measures magnetic fields produced by electrical activity in the brain; used to localize brain activity.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI): Uses MRI to show how water molecules move along nerve fibers, allowing researchers to see the connections between different brain regions.
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT): Uses a low dose of radioactive material to produce images of blood flow to the brain.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): Uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain; used to diagnose and treat depression and other disorders.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Uses light waves to create detailed images of the retina at the back of the eye; used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as glaucoma and multiple sclerosis.
"Neuroimaging is the use of quantitative (computational) techniques to study the structure and function of the central nervous system..."
"...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..."