Our group uses multimodal approaches to understand physiological change in the brain, both in the context of neuroplasticity and motor learning in our stroke recovery studies, and aging studies.
The lab is equipped with:
The lab is equipped with:
- High density electroencephalography (EEG) data collection using BrainVision 64-channel actiCHamp-Plus amplifier compatible with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), actiCAP active electrodes, and data acquisition software (BrainVision Recorder).
- Magstim 2002, Bistim2, and Rapid2 TMS: The lab is equipped with a MagStim system capable of delivering single-, paired-, and repetitive TMS. In addition, the lab is equipped with a figure of eight D70 Alpha coil, and a D70 Air Film Coil to deliver TMS pulses.
- MagPro x100 with MagOption TMS: (MagVenture Inc., Farum, Denmark). In addition to the Magstim, the lab is equipped with the MagPro x100, able to deliver monophasic or biphasic pulses at frequencies up to 100 Hz; the MagOption provides an additional capacitor which can be discharged either simultaneously or sequentially with the primary capacitor to allow paired-pulse stimulation or high intensity stimulation.
- NeuroConn transcranial electrical stimulation is a micro-processor-controlled constant current source. Besides transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) the DC-Stimulator Plus, also makes it possible to conduct bi-polar stimulation (tACS).
- Neuronavigation: Brainsight 2 Frameless stereotactic system for image-guided TMS research, a two-channel Brainsight EMG module for motor-evoked potential measurement, and a mobile computer (27” iMac with 8GB RAM on a rolling cart with an interface box) to connect the stimulus computer, EMG unit, and TMS units.
- NRH Upper Extremity lab for evaluation and experimental treatment of individuals with UE disorders. The lab is adjacent to MedStar NRH’s clinical services, Independence Square® and the outpatient treatment area. Evaluations for study participants and treatments occur in the Independence Square® and the outpatient treatment area.
- Neuroimaging: The Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging (CFMI) housed in the Georgetown University operates a research-dedicated 3.0 Tesla Siemens (Erlangen, Germany) Magnetom Prisma whole-body MRI system that supports echo-planar imaging (EPI) for BOLD (blood oxygenation level dependent) functional MRI (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), as well as multi-band acquisition for reducing scan time. CFMI has a license for LC-Model software to calculate concentrations of neurochemicals used in our research.
The lab and CFMI are both fully accessible for individuals with neuromotor impairments.