Evaluation of fMRI counting task efficiency for normal brain functional connectivity analisys during executive function examination

Abstract

Aim: to explore functional connectivity of the normal brain during Stroop test modification and new suggested counting test performance.Materials and methods. Data were acquired from 18 healthy volunteers who underwent fMRI examination on 3T scanner with Stroop test modification and new suggested counting test used as block paradigms.Results. Functional connectivity analysis showed involvement of similar regions but with different distribution of positive correlations between them: interhemispheric significant positive correlations during Stroop test modification performance were found between anterior insular cortex, interhemispheric significant positive correlations during counting test performance were found between dorsolateral prefrontal cortices bilaterally and inferior parietal cortices bilaterally. Different distribution of significant correlations could be due to specificity of tasks. Comparative analysis showed significantly higher positive correlations with occipital cortex during Stroop test performance.Conclusions. Received data allow alternative use of the abovementioned paradigms for executive functions investigation, with preference for counting test paradigm in patients with vision disturbances.