Research methods in neuroscience Flashcards
Is a CT scan invasive or non-invasive?
Non-invasive
What is a CT scan?
An x-ray scanner that is rotated 1 degree at a time of 180degrees. Reveals structural abnormalities, such as a lesion. It is computer assisted.
Is an MRI scan invasive or non invasive?
Non-invasive
What is an MRI scanner?
Contains a strong magnetic field that that causes protons to align in the same orientation. A computer reconstructs the image. The MRI scanner detects radiation emitted as the protons relax.
Is an fMRI invasive or non-invasive?
Non-invasive
What does the fMRI measure?
Which parts of the brain are active when performing a task. Where functional activity occurs
How come you can see the brain activity with an fMRI?
As oxygen and glucose are supplied by the blood as fuel for the brain but the brain does not store fuel so blood supply changes as needs arise
Is an EEG invasive or non-invasive?
Non-invasive
What does an EEG do?
Measures the electrical activity of the brain often in response to a stimulus
What is some good advantages about the EEG?
High temporal resolutions
Direct reflection of neuronal activity
Less expensive than MRI
What is a negative of the EEG
Poor spatial localisation due to recordings made at the scalp
What does ERP stand for?
Event related potentials
Are ERPs invasive or non-invasive?
Non-invasive
What do ERP waveforms tell us about?
The neural basis of processing which is provided by the difference in activity.
What are the two invasive methods?
Intracellular recording and extracellular recording
