LIMITATIONS IN BRAIN MAPPING AND DATA-POOLING REMEDIES ERRONEOUS RESULTS IN SINGLE-STUDY fMRI ANALYSIS

seen as designed mega-analyses, and the necessary databasing, data-sharing and analysis tools are emerging (Keator et al., 2008, 2009; Bockholt et al., 2009). In the following, current limitations in function-location brain mapping are examined, along with strategies for their remediation through data pooling. Following the meta/mega-analysis distinction frequently employed in the fi eld, the advantages and shortcomings of different types of data-sharing based on the type of data used as prime matter for pooling are also discussed. Finally, the different steps for a valid data pooling exercise, from data collection to the selection of suitable analysis methods, are considered.