Electroencephalogram Signal Correlations between Default Mode Network and Attentional Functioning

Attentional issues may affect acquiring new information, task performance,
and learning. Cortical network activities change during different functional
brain states, including the default mode network (DMN) and attention network. We investigated the neural mechanisms underlying attentional functions and correlations between DMN connectivity and attentional function
using the Trail-Making Test (TMT)-A and -B. Electroencephalography recordings were performed by placing 19 scalp electrodes per the 10 - 20 system. The mean power level was calculated for each rest and task condition.
Non-parametric Spearman’s rank correlation was used to examine the correlation in power levels between the rest and TMT conditions. The most significant
correlations during TMT-A were observed in the high gamma wave, followed
by theta and beta waves, indicating that most correlations were in the parietal
lobe, followed by the frontal, central, and temporal lobes. The most significant correlations during TMT-B were observed in the beta wave, followed by
the high and low gamma waves, indicating that most correlations were in the
temporal lobe, followed by the parietal, frontal, and central lobes. Frontoparietal beta and gamma waves in the DMN may represent attentional functions.