Sensing the brain: meet the new quantum-enabled MEG scanner
One method of imaging brain function is magnetoencephalography (MEG), which traditionally uses superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) to measure the tiny magnetic fields created from neuronal assemblies. Trouble is, these devices have to be cooled to –269 °C, which is one reason why MEG scanners are so expensive. Hannah Coleman and Matt Brookes explain how “optically pumped magnetometers” could allow MEG to be more widely used. These quantum-enabled magnetic devices are as sensitive as SQUIDs – but don’t need any fiddly cryogenics. Also this month: Fukushima 10 years on, the importance of rare-isotope beams, and the importance of long-term thinking.
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