Experimental design and data analysis for fMRI

Abstract

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) methods have evolved rapidly over the last decade. Ever more subtle experimental designs have been joined by ever more powerful data analysis methods to detect evoked changes in neural activity. Despite constant developments, there are several core principles of fMRI methodology that can be used as a guide to understand the current state of the field, as well as whatever advances await tomorrow. Here, the primary concern will be with this core understanding, but several specific aspects of fMRI experiments also will be considered. Along the way, some of the specific challenges that face fMRI studies of clinical populations will be noted, although a detailed consideration of these issues is contained in Chapter 5. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.