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Over the past decades, in vivo imaging methods have been developed that allow the visualization of the structure and function of the living brain. A variety of imaging modes are available that are based on different physical processes. In order to understand the potential and the limitations of these, some knowledge of the basic principles is necessary. Neuroimaging methods are generally divided into structural and functional imaging modes. Of the former, x-ray computerized tomography has been generally replaced by magnetic resonance imaging, which, in addition to giving a higher spatial resolution, provides a better contrast between different soft tissue types, such as gray and white matter. The functional emission tomographies are based on radioactive, gamma ray emitting substances that are injected or inhaled. These tracers distribute throughout the brain, following the pattern of perfusion and metabolism or the density distribution of certain brain receptors. © 2007 Copyright © 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/B978-012373947-6.00074-X

Type

Chapter

Book title

Encyclopedia of Stress

Publication Date

01/12/2010

Pages

432 - 438