lecture 10&11 - methods Flashcards
what are the strengths of TMS?
precise localisation of brain regions, can be used with EEG or fMRI, temporary brain impairment w/o long term consequences, saves lives of test animals, can study the effect of brain function disruption in the same person, medical applications - depression, addiction, stroke rehab, chronic pain, parkinsons
what is Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?
inhibits brain brain function by creating an electromagnetic field - targets brain areas and stimulates them
what is Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)?
non-invasive, painless brain stimulation treatment that uses direct electrical currents to stimulate specific parts of the brain.
what is anodal stimulation (tDCS)?
excites neural stimulation
what is cathodal stimulation (tDCS)?
inhibits or reduces neuronal activity
what are benefits of tDCS?
cheap, non-invasive, painless, safe, easy to administer, minimal side effects, cog improvements
what are drawbacks of tDCS?
too easy so prone to abuse, method is too short to know long term consequences
how do painkillers work?
depress the NS making it harder for pain signals to reach brain, attach to opiate receptors to block pain signals coming from the body
what do aspirin and ibruprofen do?
block enzymes used by injured cells to make the bodys pain messengers
what do beta blockers do?
Beta-blockers like Propranolol block the effects of these hormones, which reduces the physical signs of anxiety (e.g. decrease heart rate).
what do amphetamines do?
improve sustained attention, reduce overactivity and impulsiveness
what does cocaine do?
Local anaesthetic and restricts blood vessels (useful for surgeries as anaesthetic and to stop bleeding)
what do hallucinogens/psychedelic drugs do?
targets serotonin receptors, perceptual distortions, cognitive restructuring, mood changes, changes in meaning of perceptions, and dissolution of bodily boundaries
how does TMS improve depression?
symptoms are reduced for a given period of time so people feel better
how does TMS improve addictions?
reduces cravings
