[nfbwatlk] UW scientist looking for subjects for study

[Ione Fine]

UW scientist looking for subjects for study 

Dr. Ione Fine at the University of Washington is looking for subjects for a
study that examines the effects of blindness on the ability to process
tactile and auditory information. It is thought that because visual loss
increases the need to rely on other senses, the ability of blind people to
process auditory and tactile information may be enhanced. We are examining
how this happens in the brain. 

If you choose to participate you will be asked to participate in behavioral
and/or MR experiments. For behavioral experiments we will ask you to make
simple judgments about tactile and/or auditory stimuli.  You may be asked to
participate in as many as five behavioral sessions (each session lasts up to
1.5 hours, and each session will be carried out on a different day).
Participants will be paid $20/hour for behavioral sessions. Transport (a car
service) will be provided and you will be compensated for travel time.

For MR experiments we will ask you to lie in an MR scanner while you make
simple judgments about tactile and/or auditory stimuli. You may be asked to
participate in as many as five MR imaging sessions (each session lasts up to
2 hours, and each session will be carried out on a different day).
Participants will be paid $45/hour for imaging sessions. Transport (a car
service) will be provided and you will be compensated for travel time.

Currently we are only recruiting subjects who became blind (using the
definition of having visual acuity of light perception or worse) before the
age of three. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Dr. Ione Fine
at the phone number or email address below. 

Eligibility: To participate you must be 18 years of age or older, should be
blind due to damage to the eyes or optic nerve (not cortical impairment).
Subjects participating in the MR experiments must have no history of
claustrophobia, and no metal objects in or on the body during the scan. 

Contact Information:     206-685-6157 ionefine at u.washington.edu 
(Please note: the confidentiality of information sent via e-mail cannot be
ensured.)