TransCranial Thoughts

Dedicated to the study of the mind, with a particular focus on TransCranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS).

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February 26, 2019

So, We made It. A New Blog is Born. Wait until we get the domain pointed here. Then things will really get going.

What is Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS)?

May 16, 2020

The Basic Things You Need To Know About tDCS: Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation which is abbreviated as (tDCS) is a type of simulation that is portable and works simultaneously to help deliver an electric current that is low to the scalp, using a neuromodulatory technique. The current applied to the scalp ranges from 1 to 2 mA. To make sure that the neurons are depolarized respectively, this tDCS was designed to work in such a way that the positive and negative current is applied to an area through electrodes. The rate at which the current flows and the specific location it goes to in the brain is determined by positions of both the anode and cathode electrodes. Despite being an electric current, the amount of current delivered by the tDCS is negligible. This simply means that it has no potentials of causing any action in the neuron. What the current been supplied which is at a sub-threshold level does is to either reduce or increase the distance bet...

Brain's Ability to Detect Magnetic Fields

March 24, 2019

Those of us researching the field of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), have long been fascinated by the idea that the brain is an electromagnetic organ, and therefore should behave in certain ways that would be familiar to the field of study of general electricity and magnetism. The nerve cells within the brain communicate with each other fundamentally with electrons and energy transport, albeit with a chemical foundation instead of direct and fixed conductors, such as cabling or etched metal lines. Therefore it should also be little surprise that new research is finding out that the brain has a magnetic field detection ability as well, since the forces of electricity and magnetism are directly intertwined. The calculation is quite simple: If the brain's very functional existence is based on moving electrons around, those moving electrons will then create magnetic fields, and then if those magnetic fields interact with existing external magnetic fields; voila, i...

Best Book Written on Nikola Tesla

March 01, 2019

I recently finished reading W. Bernard Carlson's book on Nikola Tesla, entitled "Tesla: Inventor of the Electrical Age". This is actually the first book I've read on Nikola Tesla as I got tired of just hearsay and random youtube videos on his life. Mr. Carlson does a great job of getting into the details of Tesla's early life, his middle life, and his demise. The truly interesting part for me was actually his business dealings, and all the various characters that worked with him and surrounded Tesla as he went on innovating during an era of rapid electrification and industrialization of the modern era. The closest analogy I can think of has been the internet age in terms of rapid change and interesting characters. The truth is that electrification of society was so much harder and more complicated, I think its truly hard for the average person today to appreciate how much detailed effort went into innovation in those times, a little over a 100 years ago....

We have Arrived

February 26, 2019

So, We made It. A New Blog is Born. Wait until we get the domain pointed here. Then things will really get going.

Understanding the Differences: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) vs. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

May 29, 2023

Introduction: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are two non-invasive brain stimulation techniques that have gained attention for their potential applications in research and therapeutic settings. While both methods aim to modulate brain activity, they differ in their mechanisms, effects, and applications. In this article, we explore the contrasts between tDCS and TMS, shedding light on their unique features and potential uses. Principle and Mechanism: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): tDCS involves the application of a weak electrical current to the scalp using electrodes. It works by delivering a constant, low-intensity direct current to modulate the resting membrane potential of neurons. This process aims to enhance or inhibit neural activity, depending on the polarity of the electrodes (anodal or cathodal). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): TMS employs the principle of electromagnetic induction. It u...

What is the best form of TransCranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)?

May 29, 2023

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a technique that involves applying a weak electrical current to the scalp to modulate brain activity. It is used in various research and clinical applications, but it's important to note that the effectiveness of tDCS can vary depending on the specific goals and parameters of the stimulation. There isn't a universally agreed-upon "best" form of tDCS because the optimal parameters can depend on the desired outcome, the targeted brain region, and individual factors. However, there are a few commonly used approaches: Anodal stimulation: In anodal tDCS, the anode (positive electrode) is placed over the area of interest, and the cathode (negative electrode) is placed elsewhere on the scalp. This configuration is often used to enhance cortical excitability and promote neuronal firing in the targeted area. Cathodal stimulation: Cathodal tDCS involves placing the cathode over the area of interest and the anode elsewhere. This ...

Unlocking the Potential: Exploring the Benefits of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

May 29, 2023

In recent years, neuroscience has witnessed remarkable advancements in the field of brain stimulation techniques. One such technique that has gained significant attention is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS). tDCS involves the application of low-intensity electrical currents to specific regions of the brain, offering a non-invasive and potentially effective approach for modulating brain activity. This article explores the benefits of tDCS and its potential applications across various domains. Enhanced Cognitive Function: tDCS has shown promising results in enhancing cognitive function. Studies have suggested that tDCS can improve attention, working memory, and executive functions. By modulating the neural networks associated with these cognitive processes, tDCS has the potential to enhance learning abilities, problem-solving skills, and overall cognitive performance. One of the most exciting applications of tDCS is its ability to facilitate learning processes. By stimulati...

Can the human brain detect magnetic fields?

May 29, 2023

The human brain does not possess a direct sensory mechanism to detect magnetic fields. Unlike some animals, such as migratory birds or certain marine animals, humans do not have a specialized organ or structure that allows them to perceive magnetic fields. However, the brain is indirectly affected by magnetic fields under specific circumstances. For example, when a magnetic field changes rapidly, it can induce electric fields in the brain and other tissues through a process known as electromagnetic induction. This phenomenon is utilized in medical applications such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a technique used in certain therapeutic and research settings to non-invasively stimulate the brain. It involves the use of rapidly changing magnetic fields to induce electrical currents in specific areas of the brain, which can affect neural activity and potentially modulate brain function. In summary,...