Time scale properties of task and resting-state functional connectivity: Detrended partial cross-correlation analysis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Functional Neuroimaging

Background:

• Functional connectivity analysis is crucial for understanding brain function.
• Previous research highlights low-frequency signals in default mode network (DMN) and task networks.
• The relationship between network connectivity time scales and task performance remains unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare time scale properties of network connectivity during rest versus a stop signal task.
• To investigate the relationship between these time scales and task performance.
• To introduce a novel method for analyzing time-scale-specific functional connectivity.

Main Methods:

• Utilized fMRI data from 68 subjects at rest and during a stop signal task.
• Employed detrended partial cross-correlation analysis (DPCCA) to measure time-scale-specific correlations.
• Controlled for the influence of other variables in the correlation analysis.

Main Results:

• Time scales of DMN connectivity increased during rest compared to task.
• Time scales of task network connectivity increased during task compared to rest.
• Pre-supplementary motor area connectivity time scale inversely correlated with impulsivity and reaction time.

Conclusions:

• Brain network time scale properties vary across mental states (rest vs. task).
• Low-frequency BOLD signal fluctuations play a role in behavioral control.
• DPCCA offers a novel approach to analyze time-scale-dependent functional brain networks.