NIRS-BIDS: Brain Imaging Data Structure Extended to Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive neuroimaging method for measuring cortical hemodynamic activity.
• Challenges in data sharing and reproducibility exist due to a lack of standardized data organization in fNIRS research.
• Existing neuroimaging communities have successfully addressed similar issues with data structure standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce an extension of the Brain Imaging Data Structure (BIDS) specifically for functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) data.
• To provide tools that aid researchers in organizing fNIRS datasets.
• To promote the public dissemination and reproducibility of fNIRS research.

Main Methods:

• Development of a BIDS extension tailored to the specific requirements of fNIRS data.
• Creation of utility tools to assist in the organization and formatting of fNIRS data according to the new BIDS extension.
• Demonstration of the application of the BIDS extension for fNIRS data organization.

Main Results:

• A standardized framework (BIDS extension) for organizing fNIRS data has been established.
• Tools are available to facilitate the implementation of this data organization standard.
• The proposed solution addresses the need for clarity and consistency in fNIRS data storage.

Conclusions:

• The BIDS extension for fNIRS data significantly enhances data sharing and reproducibility.
• Standardized data organization is crucial for the advancement of fNIRS research.
• This initiative aims to foster a more collaborative and open scientific environment for fNIRS researchers.