Abnormal intrinsic brain functional network dynamics in delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning (DEACMP) is a significant neurological complication.
• Understanding the dynamic brain network alterations in DEACMP is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the time-varying characteristics of dynamic brain networks and their topological properties in DEACMP patients.
• To explore the relationship between dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) abnormalities and cognitive function (MoCA scores).

Main Methods:

• Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) was used in 25 DEACMP patients and 25 healthy controls.
• Sliding time window analysis was applied to assess dynamic functional connectivity (dFC).
• Graph theory analysis examined whole-brain network topological properties.

Main Results:

• DEACMP patients exhibited two distinct dFC states, with State 2 showing complex inter- and intra-network dynamic interactions.
• Abnormal dFC indicators were significantly correlated with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores.
• Dynamic brain network topological properties showed significant variability in DEACMP patients.

Conclusions:

• DEACMP is associated with altered dynamic functional connectivity and network topology.
• These brain network abnormalities may underlie the cognitive deficits observed in DEACMP.
• Dynamic rs-fMRI analysis provides valuable insights into DEACMP pathophysiology.