The Finest Music and Entertainment MEL BALL and repeatedly presented to the eyes and determined the fixed pattern of the brain's response to that pic- ture (by "canceling out" the inter- nal activity, the so-called "noise"). The researchers were able to predict precisely the appearance of brain waves produced in re- sponse to the picture by monitor- ing the internal state of the brain just prior to that picture's presen- tation and combining this brain ac- tivity with the fixed response pattern to that picture. The pre- dictions proved impressively ac- curate despite the overwhelming range of possible variations. Moreover, the researchers were able to tell what the eyes had just seen for very simple pictures con- sisting of horizontal or vertical lines. The scientists suggest that the interaction between the internal and externally imposed brain waves may constitute a mecha- nism of context-dependent infor- mation processing in the cortex. Professor Grinvald and col- leagues have developed new neu- ro-imaging techniques referred to as "optical imaging," which have for the first time made it possible to visiislin the activity of millions of interconnected groups of neu- rons, enabling researchers to lit- erally observe the brain function at an unprecedented resolution in time and space. In the present study, the re- searchers resorted to a technique based on staining the cortex with voltage-sensitive dyes. These dyes are special molecules synthesized at the Weizmann Institute, which attach to neurons and act as tiny transducers transforming changes in the neurons' electrical activity into flashing lights. Thus, the development of opti- cal imaging has led to the realiza- tion of a classical science-fiction metaphor of the British physiolo- gist Lord Sherrington, who mar- veled some 50 years ago at how much easier it would be to under- stand the brain if neurons would light up when they "talked" to one another. The first steps toward develop- ing such imaging methods were made in the 1970s by the pioneering work of Dr. I. Tasaki of the National Institutes of Health and Dr. Lawrence Cohen of Yale University and their colleagues. ❑ HOT SHOTS Do you have an item for "Hot Shots"? "Hot Shots" is a periodic column rec- ognizing medical professionals for achievements in their field. Please send items to Ruth Littmann at The Jewish News, 27676 Franklin, South- field, Ml 48034. A picture would be appreciated. It can be color or black- and-white, but it must be in focus. If you wish to have the picture returned, you must enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. HAMILTON HOUSE COLOURS 810-851-1992 Enhancing' quality of life for the memory impaired Memory impairments take on many forms and affect many COATS UNLIMITED lives. Daily tasks, once considered routine, become increasingly frustrating for the memory impaired as their world becomes unfamiliar. Oak Park At Hamilton House of Farmington Hills, we recreate the "familiar" for the memory impaired, by creating a total environment that considers every facet of daily living. From our state-of-the-art design to life enrichment programs, Hamilton House focuses on maximizing quality of life. Most importantly, our staff has expertise in caring for and working with people with memory impairments. Lincoln Center 26150 Greenfield Road (313) 968-2060 Oak Park, MI 48237 West Bloomfield Orchard Mall 6421 Orchard Lake Road West Bloomfield. MI 48322 (313) 855.9955 Troy Troy Commons 871 E. Big Beaver Road 528-9966 Troy. MI 48237 Visit Hamilton House today to learn how we can restore dignity, challenge, friendship and joy in the life of someone you love. DESIGNS UNLIMITED "THE FINEST IN CUSTOM CABINETS FOR HOME OR OFFICE" HAMILTON HOUSE Showroom hours: Mon.-Fri. 11-5, Sat. 11-3 or by appointment. OF FARMINGTON HILLS 624-7300 4n Alternative Living Services Residence BIRMINGHAM BEAD STORE (810) 489-9362 Specialized Assisted Dying for the Memory • Beads JN 1 /18 • Findings • Custom ' Stringing A and t Send me an informational brochure on Hamilton House of Farmington Hills. I would like to attend an educational program on memory impairments. I would like to schedule a tour at Hamilton House of Farmington Hills. Downtown Birmingham 154 W. Maple 18101644-7609 Hours Mon-Sat 10:30 - 5.00 Name Address Re-Stringing City, State, ZIP CLASSIFIED GET RESULTS! Phone Mail to Hamilton House of Farmington Hills, 27950 Drake Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48331 Call The Jewish News 354.5959 "Scott's program is fantastic.- You just have to experience it and enjoy the results or yourself! " • Shopping Service • Home Re-Sale Preparation • Utilizing Present Furniture Call: RISA