Experimental Response Systems
We have two experimental stimuli/subject response systems. The Eloquence system by Invivo includes an EMC shielded console that houses dual computers with software for experimental control, subject management and functional analysis. The computers generate, present, and archive functional fMRI experiments while maintaining millisecond level experiment control. Eloquence systemOne computer controls the magnet, triggering the magnet at the appropriate time, and captures images. The second computer is yoked to the first one and allows control of subject stimuli (both visual and auditory). This is a system which contains the components for experimental control as well as visual and auditory stimulus delivery systems. Eloquence contains a comprehensive and fully integrated set of hardware and software tools that provides the user with presentation, behavioral data collection and analysis for functional MRI (fMRI) assessment. This system utilizes E-Prime software for fMRI applications to program fMRI experiments including motor, language, memory, emotion, and decision tasks in block and/or event-related paradigms as well as experimental control software. The In-Magnet Module includes a Patient Video Display Hood which consists of a 15" diagonal LCD, 1024 X 768 resolution w/mount to Phased Array Head Coil, subject headphones consisting of electrostatic stereo headphones embedded in passive noise reduction earphones, 10 key Button Response Unit, radio frequency (RF) detector and console enabled TTL trigger for pulse-based synchronization, subject microphone, and set of MR -compatible, corrective lenses for subjects (± 1-7 diopter), and a fiber optic joystick.
The second system developed by Psychology Software Tools (PST) consists of several components: a MRI Digital Projection System includes a high resolution (1024x768) DLP Projector with RF filtered enclosure, custom lens assembly, digital video (DVI) over fiber, high flow fans, and internal thermal sensor. The system includes a high resolution lenticular pitch rear projection screen. Additional components include a magnet compatible projector stand, mirror stand, and rear projection screen stand as well as right and left Hand (5 Button) Fiber Optic MR Response Pads, Interface Console, and MRI compatible auditory stimulus presentation system.
While the Eloquence system is more integrated and easier to program and interface, the software interface is restricted to Eprime. The PST system is more flexible and allows attachment and integration of virtually any type of stimulus delivery or task software (Windows based such as Eprime, Presentation, or MATLAB) or Macintosh (e.g. HyperCard).