Instruments
EEG
An EGI Geodesic System 200 Electroencephalography system with 256-channel head capabilities is maintained in the BIRC. Dense-Array Electroencephalography (EEG) is another high temporal resolution technology that combined with MEG, can identify specific areas of the brain responsible for various brain functions. Similar to MEG, Dense-array EEG allows exquisite temporal resolution for neural activity.
MEG (operations currently suspended)
A CTF Omega Whole-cortex magnetoencephalography (MEG) system with 143-channel MEG and integrated 64-channel EEG, all enclosed in a state-of-the-art magnetically shielded room, is available for researchers. Magnetoencephalography is an exciting technology allowing for high temporal resolution measurement of brain function that complements MRI structural and functional scanning but provides superior temporal resolution than fMRI. When using in combination, EEG and MEG provide for excellent spatial and temporal resolution of neural activities supporting multiple sensory and complex cognitive abilities.
MRI
Human and large animal imaging: A state-of-the-art, General Electric 32-channel fixed-site Discovery MR750 3.0 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) magnet is the anchor technology within the BIRC. The magnet makes available multiple magnetic resonance imaging techniques including magnetic resonance imaging for structural tissue imaging (MRI), functional neuroimaging (fMRI) for studies of brain activation in real time, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for the study of chemical changes in the brain, and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for the study of vascular changes throughout the system.
MRI Simulator
A fully functional MRI simulator is housed within the BIRC. The simulator is a life-size “mock-up” of the MR magnet, complete with stimulus presentation and behavioral data acquisition computing equipment. The simulator is used to develop new protocols, train research participants, and acclimate participants to the MR environment.
MRI – Varian 7T
A Varian Magnex 7 Tesla, 210 mm horizontal bore, actively shielded small animal MRI system. The 7T magnet allows MRI and MRS tissue imaging at a high level of resolution and is available to the research community. The magnet allows cutting-edge monitoring of the development and treatment of disease in small animal models (primarily rats and mice) and provides non-invasive monitoring of both anatomical and metabolic changes without the statistical aberrations introduced by post-sacrifice analysis.
PIXImus Densitometer
The PIXImus Densitometer (GE Medical systems) is a small animal imaging system that allows measurement of bone density and of bone or soft tissue composition. The PIXImus system uses dual energy x-ray absorptiometry ( DEXA) and typically takes less than 10 minutes for image acquisition.
Software
A variety of software tools are available for all investigators via a multi-computer workstation environment on the premises, supporting Linux and Windows versions of most programs. Image processing software includes BESA, CURRY, SPM, FSL, AFNI, MATLAB, E-Prime, Presentation, and Brain Wave.