Resting-state EEG network change in alpha and beta bands after upper limb amputation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Brain Network Analysis
• Electroencephalography (EEG)

Background:

• Amputation leads to significant changes in the central nervous system.
• Understanding functional brain network reorganization is crucial for addressing post-amputation phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate functional brain network reorganization in right-hand amputees using resting-state EEG.
• To compare global and local network parameters between amputees and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• Resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) was employed.
• EEG networks were constructed using phase synchronization in alpha and beta bands.
• Global and local network parameters, including clustering coefficient (C), characteristic path length (L), small worldness (S), and nodal degree (k), were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Amputees exhibited increased clustering coefficient (C), decreased characteristic path length (L), and increased small worldness (S) in the alpha band.
• An increase in characteristic path length (L) was observed in the beta band for amputees.
• Right-hand amputees showed lower nodal degree (k) in the sensorimotor cortex but higher nodal degree (k) in the right parietal area in the alpha band compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Altered functional brain network connectivity in amputees suggests decreased inhibition from the sensorimotor cortex and increased connectivity in the parietal area.
• These findings support the unmasking theory of brain plasticity.
• Observed connectivity changes may be associated with the phantom limb phenomenon.