s41598-021-01854-7.pdf (2.18 MB)
Improved spatio-temporal measurements of visually evoked fields using optically-pumped magnetometers
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-10, 02:18 authored by Aikaterini Gialopsou, Christopher Abel, Timothy Martin James, Thomas CoussensThomas Coussens, Mark Bason, Reuben Puddy, Francesco Di Lorenzo, Katharina Rolfs, Jens Voigt, Tilmann Sander, Mara Cercignani, Peter KruegerPeter KruegerRecent developments in performance and practicality of optically-pumped magnetometers (OPMs) have enabled new capabilities in non-invasive brain function mapping through magnetoencephalography. In particular, the lack of cryogenic operating conditions allows for more flexible placement of sensor heads closer to the brain, leading to improved spatial resolution and source localisation capabilities. Through recording visually evoked brain fields (VEFs), we demonstrate that the closer sensor proximity can be exploited to improve temporal resolution. We use OPMs, and superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) for reference, to measure brain responses to flash and pattern reversal stimuli. We find highly reproducible signals with consistency across multiple participants, stimulus paradigms and sensor modalities. The temporal resolution advantage of OPMs is manifest in a twofold improvement, compared to SQUIDs. The capability for improved spatio-temporal signal tracing is illustrated by simultaneous vector recordings of VEFs in the primary and associative visual cortex, where a time lag on the order of 10–20 ms is consistently found. This paves the way for further spatio-temporal studies of neurophysiological signal tracking in visual stimulus processing, and other brain responses, with potentially far-reaching consequences for time-critical mapping of functionality in healthy and pathological brains.
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Publication status
- Published
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- Published version
Journal
Scientific ReportsISSN
2045-2322Publisher
Nature ResearchExternal DOI
Issue
1Volume
11Page range
1-11Article number
a22412Event location
EnglandDepartment affiliated with
- Physics and Astronomy Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2022-01-14First Open Access (FOA) Date
2022-01-14First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2022-01-14Usage metrics
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