Topological Dynamics of Functional Brain Connectome in Working Memory Processing

This research paper delves into the neural processes underlying working memory through the lens of complex network analysis. Employing this approach, the study aims to unravel the rapid mechanisms governing working memory. The investigation focuses on discerning the dynamics of topological features of functional brain networks during various stages of working memory, namely encoding, storage and retrieval. The study unveils that the functional brain networks exhibit distinct topologies contingent on the specific phase of working memory. Notably, the patterns of alteration in the global integration/segregation and centrality of the network are contingent on the frequency range of the electroencephalogram signal from
$\alpha$
- to
$\beta$
-rhythm. In the
$\alpha$
band range, the networks evince a heightened integration and centrality alongside reduced segregation in early phases and decrease of integration and centrality to late phases. Significantly, in contrast to the
$\alpha$
-rhythm, the
$\beta$
-rhythm networks show a substantial increase in integration during the shift from the storage phase to the retrieval phase. These findings underscore the peculiar interplay between the frequency-dependent neural dynamics and the topological organization of functional brain networks during various phases of working memory execution process. The research provides crucial insights into the intricate orchestration of cognitive processes, unraveling how various subprocesses of working memory influence network characteristics across different electroencephalogram frequency ranges.