Computers and Computations in the Neurosciences

Methods in Neurosciences, Volume 10: Computers and Computations in the Neurosciences discusses the use of computers in the neurosciences. The book deals with data collection, analysis, and modeling, with emphasis on the use of computers. Section I involves data collection using a personal microcomputer system. One paper presents a tutorial on using a PC-based motor control composed of an electronic circuit to adjust the motion of a light microscope stage through a software program. Other papers discuss computer methods in nuclei cartography and a computer-assisted quantitative receptor autoradiography in studying receptor density distribution. Section II deals with data analysis and some computer programs for kinetic modeling of gene expression in neurons. The book also discusses a computerized analysis of opioid receptor heterogeneity by ligand binding in test animals using computerized programs instead of employing manual or graphical methods. Computerized curve-fitting allows the researcher to utilize a more precise mathematical model to describe the binding of one ligand to one class of sites. Section III evaluates data modeling and simulations and describes the practicality of using computers to design model ion channels. Another paper discusses a graphical interaction program called MEMPOT to simulate an electrophysiological investigation of the properties of the membrane potential in stimulated cells. The book also presents a quantitative data gathered from computer simulation of the factors that affect neuronal density per measured sections. The book is suitable for microbiologists, biochemists, neuroscientists, and researchers in the field of medical research, as well as for advanced computer programmers in medical research work.