Brain mapping (Chapter 3)

Early mapping methods

appearance tissue and staining

Brain networks

collection of brain regions that are connected and work together to support brain function (cable wires example)

Brain connection project

Attempt to map all neural connections

Computer Topography scans (CT scans)

Combinations of x ray photos

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

maps with magnetic fields and radio waves

Diffusion Tension imaging (DTI)

MRI variation, helps researchers assess the size and direction of connections

Phrenology

1800s Pseudoscience that believed bumps on a skull correlated with abilities and personality traits (led to localization)

Localization

certain parts of the brain have certain functions

Neuropsychology

Looking at brain function through brain damage

Lesion

abnormal brain tissue caused by illness, trauma, or surgical intervention

Dissociation

A brain area is involved in a function but not in another function

double dissociation

Gold standard for lesion testing; Ex. you have eye damage, can’t see but can still hear

Broca’s area

area that produces language

Wenike’s area

responsible for comprehension

Single-cell recording

measuring the electrical activity from one neuron

Electroencephalography (EEG)

recording of electrical waves from thousands of neurons

magnetoencephalography (MEG)

Recording of magnetic fields made by brain (looks at when activity occurs)

Event related potential (ERP)

Synchronized electrical response to an event; averaged EEG data; visualizes cognitive process

Position emission potential

Glucose tracked to assess areas of activity

Functional Magnetic resonance imagine (FMRI)

Displays brain acitivty area

Deep brain stimulation (DBS)

Stimulating specific parts of the brain with an implemented electrode

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

short, high powered electrical surge to coil

Transmittal Direct Current Stimulation

Low electrical current; several minutes