Human brain networks in cognitive decline: a graph theoretical analysis of cortical connectivity from EEG data

摘要: The aim of this study was to investigate the neuronal network characteristics in physiological and pathological brain aging. A database 378 participants divided three groups analyzed: Alzheimer's disease (AD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), normal elderly (Nold) subjects. Through EEG recordings, cortical sources were evaluated by sLORETA software, while graph theory parameters (Characteristic Path Length λ, Clustering coefficient γ, small-world σ) computed undirected weighted networks, obtained lagged linear coherence eLORETA software. from spectral analysis showed significant differences delta, theta, alpha 1 bands. Furthermore, connectivity suggested that for normalized Characteristic (λ) pattern between cognition dementia observed theta band (MCI subjects are find similar healthy subjects), (γ) a increment found AD group bands; finally, small world (σ) parameter presented interaction MCI showing increase MCI. fact patients respect significantly impaired but not bands line with hypothesis an intermediate status condition overt dementia.