Brain Functional Connectivity Analysis via Graphical Deep Learning

Objective:
Graphical deep learning models provide a desirable way for brain functional connectivity analysis. However, the application of current graph deep learning models to brain network analysis is challenging due to the limited sample size and complex relationships between different brain regions.
Method:
In this work, a graph convolutional network (GCN) based framework is proposed by exploiting the information from both region-to-region connectivities of the brain and subject-subject relationships. We first construct an affinity subject-subject graph followed by GCN analysis. A Laplacian regularization term is introduced in our model to tackle the overfitting problem. We apply and validate the proposed model to the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort for the brain cognition study.
Results:
Experimental analysis shows that our proposed framework outperforms other competing models in classifying groups with low and high Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) scores. Moreover, to examine each brain region’s contribution to cognitive function, we use the occlusion sensitivity analysis method to identify cognition-related brain functional networks. The results are consistent with previous research yet yield new findings.
Conclusion and significance:
Our study demonstrates that GCN incorporating prior knowledge about brain networks offers a powerful way to detect important brain networks and regions associated with cognitive functions.