Journal article
Functional magnetic resonance imaging studies in sexual medicine: a primer
Journal of Sexual Medicine, Vol.19(7), pp.1073-1089
07/2022
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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Abstract
Background: Over the past 30 years, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has emerged as a powerful tool to non-invasively study the activity and function of the human brain. But along with the potential of fMRI to shed light on neurological, psychiatric, and psychological processes, there are methodological challenges and criticisms.
Aim: We herein provide an fMRI primer designed for a diverse audience, from the neuroimaging novice to the experienced user.
Methods: This primer is structured as follows: Part 1: Overview: “What is fMRI and what can it tell us?.” Part 2: Basic fMRI principles: MR physics, the BOLD signal, and components of a typical scan session. Part 3: Basic fMRI experimental design: why timing is critical, and common sources of noise in the signal. Part 4: Basic fMRI analysis methods: software, the 3 stages of data analysis (preprocessing, individual, and group level), and a survey of advanced topics and methods including connectivity, machine learning, and assessing statistical significance. Part 5: Criticism, crises, and opportunities related to power of studies, computing requirements, logistical, and interpretational challenges, and methodological debate (assessing causality, circular correlations, and open science best practices).
Outcomes n/a Clinical Translation: fMRI has primarily been used in clinical research to elucidate the brain
correlates of sexual behavior. The translational potential of the method into clinical practice has not yet been realized fMRI has primarily been used in clinical research to elucidate the brain correlates of sexual behavior. The translational potential of the method into clinical practice has not yet been realized.
Strengths and Limitations: fMRI is a useful and powerful tool for understanding the brain basis of human sexuality. However, it is also expensive, requires extensive methods expertise, and lacks the precision needed to be immediately translatable to clinical practice. The recency of the method, need for basic research, technical limitations, as well as inherent variability in individuals brain activity also impact the pace at which fMRI for sexual medicine can move from the scanner to the clinic.
Conclusion: This primer provides the novice an understanding of the appropriate uses and limitations of fMRI,
and for the experienced user, a concise update on current issues and methodological advances
Details
- Title
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging studies in sexual medicine: a primer
- Creators
- Colleen Mills-Finnerty - Palo Alto Veterans Health Care SystemEleni Frangos - National Institutes of HealthKachina Allen - Southern Cross UniversityBarry Komisaruk - Rutgers University–NewarkNan Wise - Rutgers University–Newark
- Publication Details
- Journal of Sexual Medicine, Vol.19(7), pp.1073-1089
- Publisher
- Elsevier Ltd
- Identifiers
- 991013009498002368
- Copyright
- © International Society for Sexual Medicine 2022.
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health; Human Sciences
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article