Human electrophysiology
Several electrophysiology tools are available to record human brain and bodily electrical activity both during wakefulness and sleep. These tools allow for continuous recordings over hours or days, as well as after perturbation of neuronal activity. The GIGA-In Vivo Imaging platform has extensive experience with these tools. Our platform also performs blood sampling with qualified personnel and offers centrifugation and temporary storage services.
High-density electroencephalography (hdEEG)
High-density EEG data can be obtained using two different EGI systems (Electrical Geodesics, Inc., Eugene, OR), each with 256 channels.
Additionally, the unit counts an up to 128-channel EEG system (four 32-channel modules) with active electrodes for longer recording (actiCHamp Plus/ActiCap: Brain Products GmbH). The quality of EEG cap signals is regularly checked, with several cap sizes available. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for acquisitions are up to date.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation coupled to Electroencephalography (TMS-EEG)
A high-precision Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation system (NBS, Nexstim, Finland) equipped with a neuronavigation system is available. This includes single pulse TMS and repetitive TMS (rTMS). Two 8-shape coils are available: a standard coil and an air-cooled coil, which is ideal for rTMS usage. An Electromyogram is also available with automatic motor threshold detection.
The TMS system can be coupled with TMS-compatible high density EEG system (BrainAmp, Brain Products GmbH, Germany), which includes 2 electrooculagram leads. The EEG system is compatible with TMS and reduces the artifacts coming for the TMS pulses. Several sizes of EEG caps are available.
Maintenance and accuracy checks are performed every two years by manufacturer. EEG cap signal quality is regularly checked. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for acquisitions are up to date.
Sleep rooms are available for recording, medical examinations, and neuropsychological testing. The facility is equipped with laptops and basic medical furniture. A laboratory centrifuge, fridges, and freezers for sample storage are also available. Additionally, two Arrington Research pupillometry systems are available, a portable one and a fixed one.
Electrophysiological assessments
Polysomnography
Polysomnography and EEG recordings during sleep and wakefulness are obtained with 32-channel polysomnography system (N7000, Embla, Natus, Middleton, WI). More channels can be added to each system, and respiratory detectors are available. Five systems equip 5 sound-proofed sleep rooms in the B30 building, each equipped with synchronized infrared video cameras, and controlled for temperature and light. Three additional 16-channel EEG systems (Vamp, Brain Product, Germany) are available in three other sleep rooms in B30.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for acquisitions are up to date. For all EEG systems, electrode positions can be 3D-tracked with Zebris system.
Physiological recordings
Equipment for physiological parameters recording is also available (BIOPAC MP160 system for recording ECG, EMG, EDA, and respiration electrodermal activity (EDA), respiration)
Other
Trained neuropsychologists can administer cognitive tests in dedicated testing facilities, which are also available for medical examinations. These rooms can be equipped with laptops and basic medical furniture.
A laboratory centrifuge is also available, along with fridges and freezers for sample storage. Two Arrington Research pupillometry systems are available: one portable and one fixed.
Actimeters for ambulatory monitoring of locomotor activity and rest-activity cycle estimates can be hired at complement and upon request. Available devices include MotionWatch8 (Cambridge Neurotechnology) and Axivity (AX3) 3-Axis Logging Accelerometers.
Location
All systems and rooms are based within the B30 building
Access
The platform is open to all researchers from public and private institutions, as well as for specific research trials from industry. Use of the platform is contingent upon presenting a research project to the responsible Principal Investigator (PI). Fees depend on the protocol, the duration of the platform utilization, and the contribution of the GIGA-In Vivo Imaging platform staff members.
Availability
Contact Christina Shmidt and Athina Demertzi
Rules & Invoicing
Staff
Christina Shmidt (Ph.D), Sleep and Chronobiology Lab
Athina Demertzi (Ph.D), Neurophysiology and cognition Lab
Christian Degueldre (Ir.), IT
Annick Claes, Secretary (Medical unit)
