Lecture6_NeuroMethods_Brain_injury_2025

Methods in Biopsychology and Brain Injury

I. Introduction to Biopsychology

  • Focus on studying the brain, especially in biopsychology and brain injury contexts.

  • Importance of understanding structure and function of the living human brain.

II. Overview of Brain Study Methods

A. Structure/Static Imaging

  1. Includes:

    • CT (Computed Tomography)

    • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

    • DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging)

  2. Provides static view of brain anatomy, assesses structural abnormalities and lesions.

B. Functional/Dynamic Imaging

  1. Techniques:

    • PET (Positron Emission Tomography)

    • fMRI (functional MRI)

    • EEG (Electroencephalography)

  2. Allows real-time observation of brain activity in response to tasks or stimuli.

C. Stimulation and Lesion Studies

  1. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for modulating neuronal activity.

  2. Lesion studies help understand cognitive effects of brain injuries.

III. Resolution in Brain Imaging

A. Temporal Resolution

  • Accuracy in timing of brain activity recording (e.g., EEG).

B. Spatial Resolution

  • Ability to distinguish fine details in the brain (e.g., fMRI).

  • Importance for accurately exploring anatomy and organization of brain regions.

IV. Historical Context of Brain Imaging

A. Development of Techniques

  1. 1929: Hans Berger records first human EEG.

  2. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) detects magnetic fields from neural activity.

B. Event-Related Potentials (ERP)

  • Components like P100, N100, P200 provide insights into cognitive processing.

V. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

A. Definition and Impact

  • Health concern from mechanical forces affecting brain function.

  • Annual statistics: 1.4 million treated, 52,000 fatalities, 275,000 hospitalized.

B. Types of TBI

  1. Closed Head Injuries

    • Result from falls or impacts without skull penetration.

  2. Open Head Injuries

    • Involve penetrating objects, resulting in focal damage and infection risk.

C. Mechanisms of TBI

  • Primary and secondary injuries exacerbate brain damage and complicate recovery.

VI. Assessment and Treatment of TBI

A. Assessment

  • Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) measures responsiveness in three areas.

B. Treatment Approaches

  • Focus on symptom management, rehabilitation, and potential surgical interventions.

VII. Cerebral Blood Flow and Brain Health

  • Importance of CBF in adaptation to physiological changes; risks in TBI.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Emphasizes the relationship between imaging techniques, TBI understanding, and assessment/treatment.

  • Recommended readings and resources for deeper study.