84437 - In Vivo Neurometabolic Diagnostics

Learning outcomes

Describe the main diagnostic metabolic and functional imaging techniques for in vivo investigation of neurological disorders.

Course contents

The course will focus on advanced MRI techniques for the study of central nervous system (CNS) diseases.

1. Introduction to the basics of MR spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional MRI (fMRI) techniques

2. Discussion of the advanced MRI following CNS disorders:

- Brain tumors, primary and metastatic

- Inflammatory diseases: infective and autoimmune

- Metabolic diseases

- Neurodegenerative diseases

3. Basics of radiogenomics

Readings/Bibliography

The teaching material provided on the IOL platform (lesson slides, videos, scientific papers) are essential for exam preparation.

Further reading: inherent books available at Neuroimaging Lab, IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences, Bellaria Hospital (Pavillion A, ground floor) via Altura 3, Bologna

Teaching methods

Lectures

Assessment methods

The oral exam will cover all the subjects of the course. The student has to answer questions to demonstrate her/his knowledge of specific subjects, the ability to understand the links between different parts of the course, and the use of appropriate terminology.

Gradation of the final mark:

Insufficient: lack of preparation. Serious and repeated conceptual errors.

18-19: knowledge of the basic concepts without serious gaps. Exposition of concepts and language as a whole acceptable.

20-24: knowledge of the basic concepts without gaps. Ability to analyze and link in partial autonomy. Exposure of discrete concepts and language.

25-29: preparation of good or very good level or even excellent preparation but with inaccuracies in the presentation that compromise the achievement of full marks. Ability to analyze and link independently. Exposure of concepts in the right succession and mastery of the language.

30-30L: full preparation, consolidated and without inaccuracies on the topics covered in the course. Ability to promptly frame the topic. Ability to analyze and connect independently. Concepts in the right succession and full command of the specific language.

Teaching tools

Pdf files of the power point presentations distributed through the platform virtuale.unibo.it

Office hours

See the website of Caterina Tonon