Neuroimaging Methods for Nursing Science

Abstract

Background Since the inception of magnetic resonance imaging, thousands of studies have appeared in the literature reporting on multiple imaging techniques. However, there is a paucity of neuroimaging research programs developed by nurse scientists. Objectives The purpose of this article is to introduce the nurse scientist to complex neuroimaging methods with the ultimate goal of creating impetus for future use of brain imaging in nursing research. Methods This article reviews common neuroimaging methods, presents vocabulary frequently used in neuroimaging work, provides information on access to resources in neuroimaging education, and discusses considerations for use of neuroimaging in research. Results Ten imaging modalities are reviewed, including structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography, and encephalography. Discussion Choosing an imaging modality for research depends on the nature of the research question, needs of the patient population of interest, and resources available to the novice and seasoned nurse scientist. Neuroimaging has the potential to innovate the study of symptom science and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration in research.

Differential Cortical Volume and Surface Morphometry in Youth With Chronic Health Conditions

“…To our knowledge, this study represents a unique, trans-diagnostic characterization of neurodevelopmental markers of childhood-onset CHCs. Results are relevant to nursing practice and research and support a holistic approach to health and well-being in youth with CHCs (Atalla et al, 2020; Figuracion et al, 2023).…”

“…To our knowledge, this study represents a unique, trans-diagnostic characterization of neurodevelopmental markers of childhood-onset CHCs. Results are relevant to nursing practice and research and support a holistic approach to health and well-being in youth with CHCs (Atalla et al, 2020;Figuracion et al, 2023). Following rigorous multiple-comparison correction and multi-site scanner harmonization techniques, we identified group differences in higher-order cortical regions associated with emotion regulation, memory, and decision-making, such as the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and middle temporal gyrus, where CHC youth show lower gray matter structure as compared to TD youth.…”

Integrating Neuroimaging Measures in Nursing Research

“…Recent reviews within the nursing literature describe different imaging modalities (e.g., Magnetic Resonance Imaging [MRI], Positron Emission Tomography [PET]) and discuss challenges when incorporating neuroimaging measures. The reviews, however, do not include methods of analysis (Atalla et al, 2020; Johnson et al, 2006; Kolanowski et al, 2019). Integrating neuroimaging measures in nursing research allows objective characterization of the physiological underpinnings between diseases, symptoms, and health outcomes.…”

Increased pain unpleasantness and pain-related fMRI activation in the periaqueductal gray in Alzheimer's disease

“…Because of its high temporal resolution relative to other imaging modalities ( 55 ), blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is a powerful but noninvasive way ( 56 ) to investigate neurobiological mechanisms in the brain that influence responses to pain ( 24 , 57 – 59 ). Thus far, three published fMRI studies have investigated pain processing and self-reported acute pain in mild to moderate AD ( 1 – 3 ), and a fourth fMRI study investigated resting-state connectivity and, separately, acute observational pain in mild to severe AD ( 6 ).…”