Understanding Brain Function and Measurement Techniques

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to brain function and measurement techniques discussed in the lecture.

fMRI

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging; measures brain activity by detecting changes associated with blood flow.

BOLD signal

Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent signal, indicative of neuronal activity as it tracks changes in blood oxygenation.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A method to record electrical activity of the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp.

Serendipity

The art of discovering new things by observing unexpected information.

Calcium Imaging

A technique that uses sensors to detect changes in fluorescence intensity when calcium ions enter a cell.

Microstimulation

A method that applies electrical current to stimulate neurons in a specific area of the brain.

Optogenetics

A technique that uses light to control genetically modified neurons that express light-sensitive ion channels.

Place cells

Neurons in the hippocampus that activate when an animal is in a specific location, contributing to spatial navigation.

Spatial Resolution

The ability to distinguish small details in an image or measurement, typically measured in millimeters.

Temporal Resolution

The precision of measuring changes over time, often in terms of milliseconds or seconds.