An improved framework for confound regression and filtering for control of motion artifact in the preprocessing of resting-state functional connectivity data
NeuroImage, (January 2013)DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2012.08.052
Abstract
Several recent reports in large, independent samples have demonstrated the influence of motion artifact on resting-state functional connectivity MRI (rsfc-MRI). Standard rsfc-MRI preprocessing typically includes regression of confounding signals and band-pass filtering. However, substantial heterogeneity exists in how these techniques are implemented across studies, and no prior study has examined the effect of differing approaches for the control of motion-induced artifacts. To better understand how in-scanner head motion affects rsfc-MRI data, we describe the spatial, temporal, and spectral characteristics of motion artifacts in a sample of 348 adolescents. Analyses utilize a novel approach for describing head motion on a voxelwise basis. Next, we systematically evaluate the efficacy of a range of confound regression and filtering techniques for the control of motion-induced artifacts. Results reveal that the effectiveness of preprocessing procedures on the control of motion is heterogeneous, and that improved preprocessing provides a substantial benefit beyond typical procedures. These results demonstrate that the effect of motion on rsfc-MRI can be substantially attenuated through improved preprocessing procedures, but not completely removed. ⺠We describe spatial, temporal, and spectral features of rsfc-MRI motion artifact. ⺠We show how these artifact features impact preprocessing choices. ⺠We systematically evaluate different confound regression and filtering techniques. ⺠Our optimized preprocessing approach minimizes rsfc-MRI motion artifact.