Study FAQ

PTSD Study

1. What is this study about?

Our research focuses on examining how fear and anxiety impact the brains of individuals with and without PTSD or anxiety disorders. Specifically, we aim to understand how fear influences mood and sensory perception. To achieve this, we utilize electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and non- invasive brain stimulation (NIBS). Given the nature of our study on fear, participants are also exposed to unpleasant images and sounds during certain parts of the experiment.

2. I have never had an EEG or MRI, what should I expect?

3. What is electrical stimulation? Does it hurt?

During the MRI session, mild electrical stimulation is applied to the back of participants’ heads for a duration of 20 minutes. This stimulation is of particular interest to our research as a potential treatment for PTSD. Participants typically describe the sensation as a tapping feeling accompanied by warmth at the back of the head. For the first three minutes of stimulation, we maintain active communication with the participant to monitor these sensations closely. The stimulation should not cause discomfort; however, if any discomfort arises, we can promptly adjust the settings to ensure the participant’s comfort.

4. How long is the experiment?

The experiment consists of up to two separate in-person visits. The first visit includes a clinical interview, completion of initial paperwork, a practice task, and an introduction to the MRI scanner. This visit is expected to take no longer than two hours. The second visit involves the EEG setup, MRI scan, and electrical stimulation procedures. This session spans approximately three hours, with one hour dedicated to EEG setup and a 1.5-hour MRI scan. In total, the first two visits will require approximately 4.5 hours.

5. How will I be compensated?

Participants will receive compensation at a rate of $20 per hour, with the potential to earn approximately $90 in total. Additionally, participants will receive an MR image of their brain. If a participant decides to withdraw from the study at any point, they are compensated for the time spent participating ($20 per hour).

6. How can I get to CSSP?

CSSP is located at the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Building at UTHealth. Please find the address to the building below:

Building: BBSB 2234 (2nd floor)

1941 East Rd, Houston, Texas, 77054

Public Parking is available in the Research Park Complex (RPC) Lot across the street
from the building.

7. Who can I contact if I have any other questions?
You can email us at [email protected].

Pain Study

1. What is this study about?

Our research focuses on investigating the neural mechanisms underlying the experience of chronic pain. By enhancing our understanding of how chronic pain is processed in the brain, we aim to identify new avenues for treatment. To achieve this, we employ electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and an inflatable pressure cuff as part of our methodology.

2. I have never had an EEG or MRI, what should I expect?

An EEG involves the application of an EEG cap and specialized gel to facilitate the recording of brain activity. The EEG cap resembles a swimmer’s cap but contains a series of openings for recording electrodes. Over the course of 45 minutes to an hour, the gel will be applied to each electrode. The gel is easily washable with shampoo and water, and participants will be given the opportunity to wash their hair following the EEG session. An MRI scanner utilizes a powerful magnet to generate detailed images of the brain or other parts of the body. In our experiment, participants will spend approximately 1.5 hours in the MRI scanner. Due to the noise produced by the machine, participants will be provided with hearing protection. However, communication with the experimenters remains possible throughout the session via an intercom or an alarm bell. For safety reasons, all participants and experimenters are thoroughly screened for the presence of hazardous metals before entering the MRI room.

3. What is the inflatable pressure cuff? Is it safe?

During the MRI session, mild pressure is applied to the participant’s right calf using an inflatable pressure cuff, similar to the type used for measuring blood pressure in a clinical setting. During the initial visit, the cuff will be inflated at various pressures to determine the appropriate level for the MRI scan. To ensure comfort, the cuff will be inflated for a duration of six minutes, simulating the conditions of the MRI procedure. If at any point during the experiment the pressure becomes uncomfortable, adjustments will be made to reduce or eliminate the pressure until the participant is comfortable.

4. How long is the experiment?

The experiment consists of up to two separate in-person visits. The first visit includes the completion of initial paperwork, an introduction to the MRI scanner, and the calibration of the pressure cuff. This visit is expected to take no longer than one hour. The second visit involves the EEG setup, MRI scan, and pressure stimulation procedures. This session spans approximately two hours, with one hour dedicated to EEG setup and one hour for the MRI. In total, the first two visits will require approximately three hours.

5. How will I be compensated?

Participants will receive compensation at a rate of $25 per hour, with the potential to earn approximately $75 in total. If a participant decides to withdraw from the study at any point, they are compensated for the time spent participating ($25 per hour).

6. How can I get to CSSP?

CSSP is located at the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Building at UTHealth. Please find the address to the building below:

Building: BBSB 2234 (2nd floor)

1941 East Rd, Houston, Texas, 77054

Public Parking is available in the Research Park Complex (RPC) Lot across the street
from the building.

7. Who can I contact if I have any other questions?
You can email us at [email protected].