Nervous Tissue Lab
We will collect electroencephalograms (EEGs) using a 3-lead EEG system. EEGs are invaluable tools in neuroscience and clinical settings, allowing us to measure and analyze the electrical activity of the brain.
By the end of this lab, you will have gained practical skills in placing electrodes on the scalp, recording brain waves, and interpreting different types of brain wave patterns associated with specific activities. This knowledge will provide you with a deeper understanding of the brain's electrical activity and its significance in various cognitive and behavioral processes.
During the lab, you will be guided through the process of preparing the subject and placing the electrodes on specific locations of the scalp, following standardized procedures. You will learn how to ensure proper electrode placement for accurate signal acquisition and minimize artifact interference.
Once the electrodes are in place, you will have the opportunity to record EEG data while the subject engages in different activities or experiences various stimuli. This will allow you to observe and analyze the corresponding brain wave patterns in real-time. We will discuss the differences between alpha, beta, delta, and theta waves and their association with different states of consciousness, cognitive tasks, and sleep stages.
Additionally, we will explore the challenges and limitations of EEG technology, such as susceptibility to external noise and the need for signal amplification and filtering. You will gain an appreciation for the technical considerations involved in obtaining reliable EEG data and the importance of careful experimental design. This interactive learning environment will enhance your understanding of EEG principles and their practical applications in research and clinical settings.
Objectives
· Gain practical experience in collecting electroencephalograms (EEGs) using a 3-lead EEG system.
· Learn proper electrode placement techniques to ensure accurate signal acquisition and minimize artifact interference.
· Understand the principles and limitations of EEG technology, including the challenges associated with noise and the need for signal amplification and filtering.
· Recognize and interpret different types of brain wave patterns, including alpha, beta, delta, and theta waves.
· Explore the relationship between brain wave patterns and specific activities, cognitive processes, and sleep stages.
· Develop skills in analyzing EEG data in real-time and identifying patterns associated with different states of consciousness or cognitive tasks.
· Acquire a foundational knowledge base in neuroscience and gain insight into the complexities of the human brain.
Materials
· 3-lead EEG system
· Alcohol wipes
· Disposable gloves
· Recording device (computer or phone)
Electroencephalogram
Electrode Placement
1. Use an alcohol wipe to clean the areas on the scalp where electrodes will be placed.
2. The three lead placement locations:
a. Red – over left eye near hair line
b. Black – over right eye near hair line
c. Green – on mastoid process behind right ear
3. Work in pairs or groups to place electrodes on each other's heads. Ensuring good electrode-skin contact.
Baseline Recording
1. Connect the electrodes to the EEG amplifier according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Ensure that the amplifier is properly grounded and calibrated.
3. Remain still with eyes closed for approximately 3-5 minutes while the baseline EEG is recorded.
4. Monitor the recording to ensure that artifacts are minimized (e.g., muscle movement, eye blinks).
Activity 1: Relaxation and Resting State
1. Sit or lie down comfortably and remain relaxed.
2. Close your eyes and focus on breathing or engage in a calming activity (e.g., guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation) for a set period (e.g., 5 minutes).
3. Record the EEG during this resting state and note any significant changes or patterns observed.
Activity 2: Simulation of Different Brain Waves
1. Provide subject simulation (e.g., audio, visual stimuli, cognitive tasks) to induce specific brain wave patterns:
a. Alpha Waves: listen to soothing music or engage in a meditative practice.
b. Beta Waves: solve mental math problems or engage in a conversation.
c. Delta Waves: simulate deep sleep by lying down, closing their eyes, and relaxing.
d. Theta Waves: engage in creative activities, such as drawing or brainstorming.
e. Gamma Waves: critically think about a difficult problem with intensive focus.
2. Record the EEG during each simulated brain wave activity and discuss the observed patterns.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
1. Use the recorded EEG data to generate a visual representation of brain waves (e.g., power spectrum, time-frequency analysis).
2. Identify and interpret different wave patterns using reference material or online resources.
3. Discuss the characteristics of each brain wave pattern, including frequency range, amplitude, and associated mental states or activities.
4. Compare the baseline recording with the activity-induced recordings to identify changes in brain wave patterns.
5. Make observations and draw conclusions based on the recorded data.
6. Facilitate a group discussion to reflect on the findings and observations made during the lab.
7. Discuss the significance of EEGs in studying brain activity and their applications in various fields (e.g., clinical neuroscience, cognitive research).
Activity 3: Occipital Testing
1. Move the red and black probes to the occipital region covering the visual cortex.
2. Repeat activities 1 and 2 with the electrodes in the new location
3. Record the EEG during each simulated brain wave activity and discuss the observed patterns.
4. Compare the data from the frontal region to the occipital region.
Clean-Up
1. Carefully remove the electrodes from their heads and clean the electrode sites using cotton swabs and alcohol wipes.
2. Ensure that all equipment is properly cleaned, turned off, and stored appropriately.
Draw segments of the EEG waves
Below replicate the segments of the EEG collected and classify the recordings to specific waves.
Review Questions
1. What are the three main types of neurons found in the human nervous system?
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2. How do action potentials propagate along an axon?
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3. How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems differ in their responses to stress?
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4. What are the different types of glial cells found in the nervous system and what are their functions?
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5. How does the brain process and interpret visual information?
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6. How might neuroplasticity be used to treat neurological disorders such as stroke or traumatic brain injury?
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7. What is the role of neurotransmitters in the functioning of the nervous system?
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8. How does the somatosensory system process tactile information?
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9. How might drugs that target neurotransmitter receptors be used to treat mental health disorders?
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10. What are the ethical implications of using neural implants to enhance cognitive or sensory abilities in humans?
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