2014 Fiscal Year Research-status Report
Learning to control brain activity pattern using real-time functional MRI: A feasibility study
| Project/Area Number |
26350993
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| Research Institution | Nagoya University |
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Principal Investigator |
BAGARINAO E. 名古屋大学, 脳とこころの研究センター, 特任准教授 (00443218)
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| Project Period (FY) |
2014-04-01 – 2017-03-31
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| Keywords | real-time functional MRI / neurofeedback / support vector machine / brain machine interface |
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| Outline of Annual Research Achievements |
The first year of the project was devoted mostly to the development of the real-time functional MRI system in Nagoya University's Brain and Mind Research Center. A dedicated PC was acquired to serve as a real-time analysis server and connected to the MRI scanner system via a local area network. Real-time MR image reconstruction employed the scanner's built-in function. Data transfer from scanner to the analysis server was achieved using the free software Samba. A Matlab-based real-time analysis software, called Guava, was developed. This in-house software provides analysis tools with real-time capability such as head motion correction, spatial smoothing, pattern classification, and feedback presentation, among others. Testing and initial pilot scans were successfully conducted. The system attained an overall processing time from image acquisition to feedback presentation per image volume that is less than the scan repetition time set to 2.0s, thereby achieving fully real-time operation. Finally, approval from the university's ethical committee for the actual study was also obtained before the end of 2014. The experimental protocol was finalized and 7 participants were scanned before the end of the fiscal year.
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| Current Status of Research Progress |
Current Status of Research Progress
2: Research has progressed on the whole more than it was originally planned.
Reason
The development of the real-time fMRI system, a critical component of the project, went smoothly. Testing and initial pilot scans were successfully conducted. The system is now operational. In terms of the preparation for the experimental part of the study, approval from the university's ethical committee was already obtained. The study protocol was finalized and actual scans have already started. Recruitment for the study participants is also ongoing.
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| Strategy for Future Research Activity |
This fiscal year will be devoted to the experiment investigating the feasibility of using real-time neurofeedback to train participants to match their brain activity pattern to a pre-determined target pattern using the developed real-time fMRI system. A minimum of 32 participants will be recruited from Nagoya University and neighboring communities. An initial analysis will also be conducted to evaluate the study's progress.
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| Causes of Carryover |
I was unable to attend one of the planned domestic conferences and thus the actual travel expenses was less than the estimated expenses for the year.
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| Expenditure Plan for Carryover Budget |
The amount will be used to cover additional expenses for the dissemination of research output such as presentation in domestic conferences as well as publication expenses.
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