ABSTRACT
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is, in principle, a technique for the spatial localization of changes in image intensity of the brain, following the hemodynamic response of a certain experimental task or stimulus. It is evident that there are several limitations associated with the data collection as well as the interpretation of the acquired signals that have to be taken into account. Moreover, despite being directly correlated with neuron's electrical activity fMRI is in fact an indirect evaluation method. fMRI is a very powerful and continuously evolving neuroimaging technique, but adding to other limitations it can be sometimes misused and over-interpreted. A vast majority of fMRI studies are carefully conducted, the correct and consistent application of the analysis pipeline can often be very challenging. All fMRI studies will continuously strike a delicate balance between over-analyzing or underestimating the results and put forth a continuous effort to cope with technical and physiological artifacts.
