Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that Positron Emission Tomography (PET), an
imaging technique, allows clinicians to localize safely and monitor accurately the activity of areas in the normal human brain during specific mental tasks. The author points out that the traditional methods of research, such as experiments in memorizing and observation of individuals who had suffered localized brain damage, have been facilitated by innovative methodologies, such as positron emission tomography, that connect human behavior to specific brain structures and functions. The paper relates that the research methodology will be a critical review of the scholarly and relevant literature, followed by a qualitative and quantitative analysis of how partnership between cognitive scientists and neuroscientists can be created and improved based on the technique's demonstrated efficacy in various clinical settings. Color illustrations.

Table of Contents
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of Study
Importance of Study
Review of Related Literature
Background and Overview
How Positron Emission Tomography Works.
Figure 1. Typical Positron Emission Tomography Device, Clinician and Patient
Radionuclides Used in PET
Figure 2. PET Scan of Damaged Human Brain
Methodology
Data-gathering Method and Database of Study

From the Paper:

"PET provides clinicians with a functional brain-imaging technique to identify brain regions activated in motor, sensory, cognitive, and emotional processes. "PET is based on a simple principle: a radioactive isotope that emits [[Beta].sup.+] particles (i.e., positrons, with a mass equal to an electron but with a positive electrical charge) is artificially integrated into a biological molecule and then injected intravenously." In the various PET applications, a chemical compound that is "labeled" with a short-lived, positron-emitting radionuclide (either carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine) is injected into the body. The activity of such a radiopharmaceutical is then measured quantitatively throughout the target organs through the use of photomultiplier-scintillator detectors."

More papers on Positron Emission Tomography (PET):

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