1. Optical Imaging of Intrinsic Cortical Signals
Group #24
Shivani Shah, Ania Warczyk, Alia Durrani, Daniel Maxwell, Timothy Chen

2. Past Project Abandoned previous project:
“Laparoscopic Smart Instruments for Detecting Nerve Bundles and Vasculature During Prostatectomy”
Communication breakdown (mentor located at NIH in Bethesda, MD)
Lack of resources, knowledge
Found previous device design similar to goal of project (CatherMap Surgical Aid)

3. New Project
Design an implantable camera for optical imaging of the visual cortex area of the brain (awake imaging)
Further understand physiology of the brain
Work with Psychological Sciences Department at Vanderbilt University
New Mentor: Dr. Anna Roe, Ph.D.

4. Question/Thesis Problem Statement Performance Criteria
Design an implantable camera for optical imaging of the visual cortex
Without requiring subject immobilization
Being tested on laboratory rats and monkeys
Performance Criteria
Head-worn camera
Primary Objective
Measuring hemodynamic signals related to neural activity
Could be implanted or detachable

5. Background and Importance
Solution Description
Build upon previous work by summer intern
Clover CCM625 Miniature Security Camera

6. Image Courtesy Vanderbilt Psychology Department
Rat Cortex Imaging: 7/15/2004
Image Courtesy Vanderbilt Psychology Department

7. Methods Goals Factors Thorough patent search within next two weeks
Constant communication with advisor
Factors
Future human applications – working with neurosurgeons
Design camera including:
CCD Chip
LED illuminators
Battery for power
Possible wireless transmission for data

8. Status/Results Currently in Research and Design phase
Conducting Digital Camera patent searches
Communicate with Vanderbilt Electrical Engineering faculty members
Attempting to work with past prototype
Implement new technology
Investigate wireless feasibility

9. Conclusions
Current project has clinical significance for potential human applications
Further investigate physiology of visual cortex
Reduce physical stress on animal subjects