Neurosciences

Neuroimaging allows to explore the anatomy of the brain. In recent decades, the accessibility of MR scanners and rapid advances in the development of MRI sequences have provided a large amount of data. Analyzing these data is an important and challenging step.

Here is an overview of the methods used in the Image@Imagine team:

>> Segmentation of brain structures or tissues and cortex parcellation with 3DT1 sequences using Statistical Parametric Mapping 12 (SPM12), Computational Anatomy Toolbox 12 (CAT12) and FreeSurfer software,

>> Images registration and normalization for statistical comparison between groups or population with 3D T1-weigthed, ASL and T2-weighted images using SPM12 and CAT12,

>> Images preprocessing, statistical tests using general linear model (GLM) and independent component analysis (ICA) with fMRI data using DPABI, SPM12 and FSL software,

>> Images preprocessing, fractional anisotropy measurement and tractography analysis with DTI data using FSL and TBSS software.

The eye-tracking research platform is dedicated to investigating social perception in children and adults with typical and atypical development. 

Using a Tobii T120 and Tobi X20 equipment, this non-invasive method provides objective measures of gaze pattern in a social context.

Ongoing project (Image@Imagine): Investigate the main steps of the development of typical social processes out of the scope of pathology.

The first step of this research consisted on creating highly sensitive and appropriate ecological stimuli. The main eye-tracking paradigms are based on visualization of social interaction scenes (a set of 10 sec movie fragments displaying peer to peer social interaction) and a preference paradigm, displaying social and non-social movement simultaneously.

Using this eye-tracking protocol, it is possible to perform social perception assessment in wide sample of children and adults, with typical development and with different developmental pathologies, creating a large data base.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that allows to transient interfere with neuronal activity within a target region, with measurable behavioural effects.

Onjoing project (Image@Imagine): Use of TMS as a new potential therapeutic intervention in autism spectrum disorders

The project consists in investigating the use of TMS to modulate the neural activity of the superior temporal sulcus in patients with autism spectrum disorders aiming to interfere with eye gaze processing and improve social behavior.