Brain Imaging Study at MGH

"Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of Brain Function"

Eddie Blue ScreenWe would like to enroll you as a participant in a research study.  The purpose of the study is to determine whether a new system is able to detect changes in the amount of oxygen in your brain while you are performing various tasks, such as finger-tapping exercises.  The system is called a near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) / diffuse optical tomography (DOT) system.  It uses lasers to monitor brain function non-invasively and without use of harmful radiation. 

The study will consist of one or more of a variety of tasks. In each, we will either (a) present a series of stimuli such as drawings or recordings of words, or (b) ask you to perform motor skill exercises.  In the first type of task, we will show you words, drawings or simple pictures (e.g., checkerboards); play recordings of words or tones; or stimulate your hand, arm or leg with low-amplitude vibrations or an electrical current.  An instrument called a Grass stimulator will provide the electrical current, which will not be enough to pose any risk to you. In the second type of task, we will ask you to perform finger-tapping exercises.

For more information, e-mail Christy Wanyo, or call her at 617-726-2972.

Head Probe"What Do You Need From Me?"

The imaging sessions will take place in Building 149 in the Charlestown Navy Yard. The sessions will consist of one or more of a variety of tasks.  A task or set of tasks performed while we are measuring oxygen in your brain is considered a “run” and we will ask you to participate in up to 15 of these, each of which will be 1 to 15 minutes long (there will be either fewer runs of longer duration or more runs of shorter duration, depending on how difficult the task is). You can stop the session at any time if you are uncomfortable or for any other reason.

You will receive remuneration of $20 per hour.  You will also receive a voucher good for a full day in the MGH East parking garage. In addition, if you park in the MGH garage in the Charlestown Navy Yard, you will receive a parking sticker good for the entire day.

There are no direct benefits to you for participating in the study.  However, we envision that in the future the system we are testing might complement the brain imaging technologies currently in use in a variety of patient populations, including those suffering various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

LITERATURE

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