Brain Topography TodayBrain Topography Today Edited by KogaY.NagataK. and HirataK.. Available from Elsevier Science BV, P.O. Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, The Netherlands, or from Elsevier Science Inc., P.O. Box 945, Madison Square Station, New York NY 10160-0757, USA. Price: US$293.00. ISBN 0-444-82778-2.

Abstract

have made it possible to crunch large amounts of numeric data into visual images that are easy for the human brain to understand. The sources of data are multiple and include recorded spontaneous or evoked cerebral electrical activity (EEG and evoked potentials), recorded minute magnetic fields from the surface of the brain (MEG, or magneto-encephalogram), received signals that are emitted from protons within the brain in response to radio-frequency stimulation (MRI and fMRI), and energy generated by annihilation of positrons contained in special radiopharmaceuticals that are delivered to the entire brain or targeted to specific areas (PET), etc. Sophisticated computer algorithms have made it possible to localize such sources with precision and to display them as maps or images. The subject of the book is, therefore, a multidisciplinary look at the functions of the brain through diverse techniques unified by their ability to produce a visual end product.The book contains over 140 articles contributed by nearly triple that number of authors. Titles range from "Event-related potentials in alternation of perceived images in binocular rivalry" to "Topographical analysis of CNV during listening to background music: rock vs. classic." Articles are grouped under 15 headings covering basic areas, such as source localization and visual information processing, or applied areas such as epilepsy, psychiatric and neurological disorders.Proceedings are usually prepared in a hurry, with less emphasis on the quality of the print. The publisher has done an exceptional job in the quality of the print and image reproduction.The subject is sophisticated and can be of interest to subspecialists in neurosciences, such as neurophysiologists, neuroradiologists and neuropsychologists, especially those involved in research. Considering the limited audience, the book price is not unreasonable. It should be a useful reference for researchers on the subject.