MAGNETOENCEPHALOGRAPHY Meaning and
Definition
-
Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a non-invasive neuroimaging technique used to measure and map the magnetic fields generated by the electrical activity of the brain. It provides detailed information about the brain's functional and structural processes with high temporal and spatial resolution.
MEG involves the use of highly sensitive sensors called superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) which detect the weak magnetic fields produced by the brain. These sensors are placed around the head, either in a helmet-like device or spread out in a fixed array. When neurons in the brain become active, they generate electrical currents that create tiny magnetic fields. These magnetic fields are detected by the SQUIDs and recorded, allowing researchers to analyze and visualize brain activity in real time.
The main advantage of MEG over other neuroimaging techniques like electroencephalography (EEG) is its superior spatial resolution. MEG can precisely localize the sources of brain activity, providing detailed information about the specific regions and networks involved in various cognitive and sensory processes.
Magnetoencephalography is widely used in neuroscience research to study brain function and dysfunction in healthy individuals and patients with various neurological disorders, including epilepsy, stroke, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. It is also used in surgical planning to identify critical brain regions that need to be preserved during neurosurgical procedures. Overall, MEG is a valuable tool for understanding the complex dynamics of the human brain and has the potential to enhance our knowledge of cognition, perception, and neurological disorders.
Common Misspellings for MAGNETOENCEPHALOGRAPHY
- nagnetoencephalography
- kagnetoencephalography
- jagnetoencephalography
- mzgnetoencephalography
- msgnetoencephalography
- mwgnetoencephalography
- mqgnetoencephalography
- mafnetoencephalography
- mavnetoencephalography
- mabnetoencephalography
- mahnetoencephalography
- maynetoencephalography
- matnetoencephalography
- magbetoencephalography
- magmetoencephalography
- magjetoencephalography
- maghetoencephalography
- magnwtoencephalography
- magnstoencephalography
- magndtoencephalography
Etymology of MAGNETOENCEPHALOGRAPHY
The word "magnetoencephalography" is derived from three Greek roots: "magneto", "encephalo", and "graphy".
1. "Magneto" comes from the Greek word "magnes", meaning magnet. It refers to the use of magnetic fields in the technique of magnetoencephalography.
2. "Encephalo" is derived from the Greek word "enkephalos", which means brain. It is commonly used in scientific terms related to the brain, such as encephalitis, encephalopathy, etc.
3. "Graphy" is a suffix derived from the Greek word "graphia", which means to write, depict, or record. It is commonly used in scientific and medical terminology to indicate a method of recording or imaging.
