With the intention of improving the current state in neuroscience, in the first part of this manual we describe the systems of non-invasive recording of the signals emitted by the human brain and the basic methods of constructing functional images based on these signals.

Additionally, we present the fundamental principles that govern the relevant technology and physiology and indicate the correct way to apply them. Our motivation for focusing on the fundamental principles is the observation that while the relevant technology and data analysis techniques and image construction are constantly and rapidly changing, the principles remain unchanged and serve as the foundation for understanding the technical developments.

In the second part of the manual, we attempt to provide as objective a critical presentation as possible of the major specific applications of functional imaging methods in order to highlight its achievements so far and to identify areas where more careful and correct application of these methods could accelerate the rate of substantive progress in cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology.

Contents

Andreas K. Papanicolaou ix

Contributors to the Greek edition x

Contributors to the English edition xi

Preface of the Greek edition xv

Preface of the English edition xvii

Part 1: Methods

1. Overview of basic concepts 3

2. Magnetoencephalography and electromagnetic source imaging 13

3. Functional magnetic resonance imaging 55

4. Positron emission tomography: imaging blood flow and metabolism 79

5. Positron emission tomography: imaging the ligand 101

6. Diffusion tensor imaging: the contribution of structural and functional images 133

7. Transcranial magnetic stimulation 163

Part 2: Applications

8. White matter connections 195

9. The default network and other networks characteristic of the resting state 249

10. Imaging mechanisms of consciousness 279

11. Searching for the mnemonic traces of concepts 293

12. Imaging the networks of encoding, consolidation, and retrieval 321

13. Imaging the networks of executive functions 345

14. Imaging the networks of voluntary actions 371

15. Imaging the networks of movement recognition 409

16. Imaging the networks of language 425

17. Imaging the networks of emotional states and pain 453

18. Clinical applications of functional neuroimaging: pre-surgical functional mapping 481

Appendix 499

Index 501