Neuroimaging technologies

Question 1

Maguire et al (2000)

Answer 1

MRI

Question 2

Description of MRI

Answer 2

• it uses magnetic fields and radio frequency energy (hydrogen atom) to vibrate atom in the neurons.
• the vibrations are detected by machine and a coloured image is constructed by machine and a coloured image is constructed by the computer.

Question 3

Use of MRI

Answer 3

• to detect and display extremely small changes in the brain.
• to clearly distinguish different brain-cells.
• to diagnose spinal cord abnormalities in children.

Question 4

Advantages of MRI

Answer 4

• non-invasive, harmless
• no radiation exposure
• high resolution (more detailed image)
• more sensitive to detect small changes

Question 5

Disadvantages of MRI

Answer 5

• shows only brain structure rather than function.
• cannot be used with people who have internal metallic devices
• longer scan times
• more expensive
• highly sensitive image might cause unnecessary anxiety for patients

Question 6

Antonova (2011)

Answer 6

fMRI

Question 7

Description of fMRI

Answer 7

• it is based on the concept of magnetic field
• it creates images with colour variations by analysing the blood-oxygen levels
• it produces 3D image

Question 8

Use of fMRI

Answer 8

• to enable the identification of brain areas
• to reflect activity of different brain areas when it is active
• to show on-going brain processes

Question 9

Advantages of fMRI

Answer 9

• it can take numerous pictures of the brain in a rapid succession
• it can provide an image of brain activity averaged over seconds
• it has excellent spatial and good temporal resolution
• no radiation exposure
• colour coding for better interpretation
• better 3D display when connected to VR

Question 10

Disadvantages of fMRI

Answer 10

• observations might not be accurate
• the results might be influenced by other factors
• slow signals
• very expensive