Dynamic Resting-State Connectivity Differences in Eyes Open Versus Eyes Closed Conditions

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neuroimaging
• Brain Connectivity

Background:

• Previous studies indicate significant differences in resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) data between eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC) conditions.
• Recent work demonstrated notable functional network connectivity (FNC) variations between EO and EC states across multiple brain networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) differences between EO and EC conditions.
• To further evaluate how brain connectivity patterns change over time based on visual state in adolescents.

Main Methods:

• Collected rs-fMRI data from adolescents aged 9-15 years during both EO and EC conditions.
• Applied independent component analysis (ICA) to calculate dFNC and identify distinct temporal states.
• Analyzed differences in state dominance, mean dwell time, and frequency of occurrences between EO and EC conditions.

Main Results:

• Identified five distinct dFNC states, with State 1 more dominant in EO and State 2 more dominant in EC.
• Observed significant differences in mean dwell time for States 1 and 2, and in frequency of occurrences for States 1, 2, 3, and 4 between conditions.
• Found that both static and dynamic rs-fMRI connectivity patterns are substantially influenced by the EO/EC condition, with unique transient patterns emerging in specific states.

Conclusions:

• The visual state (EO vs. EC) significantly impacts both static and dynamic functional connectivity patterns in the adolescent brain.
• Differences in dFNC between EO and EC conditions are not only present but also dynamic, varying over time and manifesting in unique transient connectivity patterns.
• The findings underscore the importance of considering the visual state as a critical factor in rs-fMRI studies and suggest its potential as a contrast of interest.