TBSS

Overview

Many imaging studies are starting to use FA images in voxelwise statistical analyses, in order to localise brain changes related to development, degeneration and disease. However, optimal analysis is compromised by the use of standard registration algorithms; there has not to date been a satisfactory solution to the question of how to align FA images from multiple subjects in a way that allows for valid conclusions to be drawn from the subsequent voxelwise analysis. Furthermore, the arbitrariness of the choice of spatial smoothing extent has not yet been resolved. TBSS aims to solve these issues via a) carefully tuned nonlinear registration, followed by b) projection onto an alignment-invariant tract representation (the "mean FA skeleton"). TBSS aims to improve the sensitivity, objectivity and interpretability of analysis of multi-subject diffusion imaging studies.

Papers

A paper on TBSS has been accepted for publication in NeuroImage. There is also a related technical report.

Software

TBSS is available as part of FDT, the FMRIB Diffusion Toolbox, in FSL.