Our research team is continually working to understand how language is computed by the brain and how it interacts with other cognitive skills. We are also interested in predictors of recovery and working to develop innovative treatment approaches to help people with aphasia improve or recover their language skills.
Our studies involve:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan of the head, Electroencephalography exam, Language Treatment Sessions and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (TDCS)
Looking for volunteers experiencing from Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) to participate in a research study that investigates the therapeutic effects of language therapy in combination with noninvasive brain stimulation.
Thank you for your interest. For more information about the study please contact:
Dr. Aneta Kielar
Phone: 520-621-5105
Email: brainarizona@gmail.com – Subject line “Brain Study”
What is Electroencephalography or EEG?
Electroencephalography (EEG). EEG is a technique that measures the electrical activity of the brain using sensors placed on the head. EEG is only a measurement device – it has no effect on the brain. It measures small electrical signals constantly emitted by neurons in the brain. During an EEG study, you will be asked to watch a short video or complete language tasks such as reading words or listening to sentences and making decisions about them while you wear the EEG net. Electrodes look like small, white, plastic disks with sponges on the end soaked in a saline solution. The length of an EEG session varies depending on the task.
Watch a video about the EEG procedure here.
What is an MRI?
MRI brain scanning. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a common technology used to make high-resolution pictures of the brain. We use information obtained from MRI to understand exactly how the brain is being affected by neuromodulation. In an MRI scan, you will be asked to lie on your back and rest or perform a language task while the scanner takes pictures. Sessions typically last about one hour.
What does the equipment look like? The MRI scanner is a large cylindrical tube surrounded by a circular magnet. You will lie on a moveable examination table that slides in and out of the center of the magnet. The control station is located in a separate room, but is equipped with a window to monitor you at all times.
Read more about getting a research MRI at the University’s facility here. Watch a video about the MRI experience here.
What is a Language Treatment Session?
Cognitive testing. You will be asked to complete several tests designed to assess language, as well as other cognitive functions that are sometimes impaired in aphasia. These tests are conducted in an office setting together with an examiner, using paper-and-pencil tasks.
What is tDCS?
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a form of noninvasive brain stimulation that uses weak electric currents applied to the scalp to modulate brain responsiveness by temporarily altering neural activation.
Watch a video about the tDCS procedure here.