EEG connectivity in functional brain networks supporting visuomotor
integration processes in dominant and non-dominant hand movements
Abstract
Objective: To explore the changes in the organization of
functional brain networks triggered by the execution of a visuo-motor
integration task with the dominant and non-dominant hands, as revealed
by noninvasive electroencephalographic recordings (EEG) at the sensors
level. Methods: EEG data were acquired during the
execution of the Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT) with the dominant and
non-dominant hands on a group of 44 right-handed volunteers. Both
spectral analysis and phase-based connectivity analysis were conducted
in the Theta (ϑ), Mu ( ) and Beta (ß) bands. Moreover, the
topological reorganization triggered by motor task execution was
explored by means of Graph Theoretical Analysis (GTA). Results:
Spectral analysis revealed an increase in the contribute of
frontoparietal ϑ rhythm and a diffused reduction of µ and ß
oscillations, regardless to the side of the body. Graph GTA showed that
dominant hand movement is associated with a pronounced increase in ϑ
degree and integration, especially in the Frontoparietal Network (FPN)
and Attention Network (AN). The µ band was associated with a reduction
of network links and integration. This result was more evident for the
right-hand movement in the FPN and Sensorimotor Network (SMN), while
similar trends were observed in the AN for the two hands. The ß band
showed a movement-related decrease in network degree and integration,
regardless of laterality and functional network. Furthermore,
correlation analysis highlighted an association between
frequency-specific topology measures to task performance for both hands.
Conclusions: GTA allows for the identification of the
main network organization changes associated with visuomotor integration
processes. These changes are frequency-dependent and show different
trends for the two sides of the body depending on the functional
network. Significance: This study contributes to enhance
the understanding of brain network modulations associated with
visuo-motor integration tasks and experience-dependent motor abilities
during motor execution