slice timing correction
Also written as: STC — slice timing correction
A preprocessing step in fMRI analysis that compensates for the temporal offset between slice acquisitions within each volume.
Full Definition
Slice timing correction is a crucial preprocessing procedure in functional MRI analysis that addresses the fact that different brain slices within a single volume are acquired sequentially rather than simultaneously, creating temporal offsets that can affect statistical analyses. This correction involves interpolating the time series to a common reference time point, typically the middle slice acquisition time. The procedure is particularly important for event-related designs and connectivity analyses where precise timing is critical. Editors reviewing fMRI studies should understand this step as improper or omitted slice timing correction can introduce artifacts and reduce statistical sensitivity.
Usage
Usage note: Order of preprocessing steps matters; typically performed before motion correction.
In Context
- "Slice timing correction was applied using sinc interpolation to the middle slice as reference." — fMRI preprocessing methodology
- "The analysis pipeline included slice timing correction prior to motion realignment and spatial smoothing." — neuroimaging data processing protocol