将网络信息的概念引入到神经科学当中对于研究脑功能机制有着积极的作用。然而人脑网络的复杂性对于理解有一定的困难。该文基于有向传递函数(Directed Transfer Function, DTF)的方法估计得到功能连接模式,进一步提出了信息流增益的计算方法,用以评价特定脑区在全脑信息传输过程中的作用。该方法将流入信息和流出信息结合,具有浓缩两者信息的优点,简化了脑复杂网络的辨识度,并且提高了结果的显示标度。仿真运算和自发、诱发脑电数据的结果都显示出通过计算分析信息流增益可以比较理想地得到各个脑区对全脑信息流的贡献。结果证明信息流增益方法为进一步理解大脑认知机制提供了可能。
It has a positive effect on the research of brain function to introduce the concept of network into neuroscience. However, in the real application the brain network with complex characteristics makes it hard to understand. In this paper, based on the functional connectivity patterns estimated by the Directed Transfer Function (DTF) methods, flow gain is proposed to assess the role of the specific brain region involved in the information transmission process. Integrating input and output information simultaneously, flow gain simplifies the identification of complex networks, as well as improves the display scale of the results. Both the simulation and spontaneous, evoked ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG) data indicate that flow gain can describe the output intensity of specific region to the whole brain. The results prove that with the definition of flow gain, it is possible to further the understanding of brain cognitive mechanism.