Quantitative measures of rhythm across disciplines: An overview and hands-on methodological approaches (capacity 30 participants)
Marco Gamba(1), Antonio Criscuolo(2), Yannick Jadoul(3), Jelle van der Werff(3)
1.Maastricht University, 2.University of Turin, 3.Sapienza University of Rome
This workshop aims to bring together researchers from diverse fields to explore how temporal patterns are quantified in behavioral and neural data. Although rhythm and timing are central in human cognitive studies, EEG research, and comparative animal behavior, methodologies often remain discipline-specific.
The workshop has three parts. It begins with two talks: Prof. Marco Gamba will discuss challenges in analyzing interactive rhythmic patterns in animal communication, especially in group contexts. Dr. Antonio Criscuolo will present EEG methods, including frequency decomposition and newer metrics like tuning dynamics, for assessing how the brain processes temporal regularities.
Next, participants will join a 90-minute hands-on session using Python tools to analyze example datasets. Working in small groups, attendees will apply various rhythm quantification methods and are encouraged to think beyond field-specific approaches.
The workshop concludes with a 30-minute brainstorming session to discuss methodological insights and future collaboration opportunities.
Open to all, the workshop requires only a laptop with Wi-Fi. No programming experience is necessary, as guidance will be provided. The session promotes interdisciplinary dialogue and practical skill-building to advance rhythm analysis across research areas.
For more information, see here.
Brain scanning using MRI: A hands-on experience (capacity 8 participants).
Yuko Yotsumoto et al. The University of Tokyo
This workshop offers a unique and accessible introduction to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for attendees with no prior experience with MRI. Designed to demystify the scanning process, the workshop provides both an educational overview and a memorable, personal takeaway.
The session begins with a guided tour of the MRI facility, where participants will be introduced to the basic principles of MRI and shown the hardware used in neuroimaging. The organizers will explain how the scanner works and what to expect during a typical scan. Each participant will then have the opportunity to undergo a structural MRI scan to acquire their own anatomical brain data. Following the scan, the workshop will demonstrate how to process this data using standard imaging software and convert the files into a 3D-printable format.
During the conference, participants’ brain models will be 3D printed, allowing them to take home a physical model of their own brain. No prior knowledge of MRI or programming is required. Participants only need to bring their curiosity. This workshop combines neuroscience, technology, and hands-on learning to deliver an engaging and personalized experience.
Implementation of a Tactile Stimulation Device Using a Solenoid and Raspberry Pi (capacity 10 participants)
Naoya Tachibana(1), Chika Goto(1), Takuma Hashimoto(1), Yoshihiko Watanabe(2)
1.The University of Tokyo, 2. Hokkaido University
This TRF4 satellite workshop is a hands-on session designed for researchers and students interested in building their own low-cost tactile stimulator. No experience with electronics is required, and although programming knowledge is not required either, having some basic understanding could be an advantage.
Each participant will receive a complete kit, including a solenoid actuator and a Raspberry Pi microcontroller. The workshop will begin with a brief overview of the Raspberry Pi platform, introducing its capabilities and relevance for experimental control in psychophysics and neuroscience. Using their own laptops, participants will follow step-by-step instructions to assemble and program their tactile stimulator. By the end of the session, attendees will be able to run a basic tactile discrimination task by manipulating the duration and frequency of solenoid movements.
Participants must bring their own laptop to the workshop. Prior to TRF4, organizers will send a list of required software to download and install. Completion of this preparation is expected before attending the session. It offers a practical, do-it-yourself approach to tactile stimulus delivery, empowering attendees with a ready-to-use device and foundational skills in open-source hardware for experimental research.