The absence of task-related increases in BOLD signal does not equate to absence of task-related brain activation

J Neurosci Methods. 2015 Jan 30:240:125-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2014.11.002. Epub 2014 Nov 15.

Abstract

Most fMRI studies employ general-linear-model-based analyses (GLM-BA) of BOLD signal changes to identify regions that are active (or not) during specific cognitive processes. However, alternate analytic approaches (like independent component analysis) may identify more complex patterns of activation, including in regions not implicated in GLM-BA of the same data. In our opinion, fMRI findings revealed by a GLM-BA cannot exclude any brain regions from contributing to specific cognitive processes.

Keywords: Balanced excitation and inhibition; Functional heterogeneity; General linear model; Spatial independent component analysis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Brain / physiology*
  • Brain Mapping / methods*
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / physiology
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Linear Models
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Mental Processes / physiology*
  • Models, Neurological
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Oxygen / blood*

Substances

  • Oxygen