Dynamic Functional Connectivity and Coupling Analysis of Triple Networks and White Matter Functional Networks in First-Episode Schizophrenia

Motivation: The brain functional alterations in schizophrenia and the impact of antipsychotic medication on brain function remain unclear. Goal(s): To explore the changes in the triple network and white matter functional networks in patients with schizophrenia, as well as the variations observed during longitudinal follow-up after treatment. Approach: A sliding window approach was used to analyze the dynamic functional connectivity (FC) of the triple network and white matter, as well as the global coupling between them. Results: Schizophrenia patients showed alterations in the dynamic FC within networks, as well as in their temporal characteristics, which exhibited dynamic changes over the follow-up period. Impact: These findings highlight the importance of dynamic FC and functional coupling between the triple network and white matter in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, which may aid in a better comprehension of the dynamic changes within the disease networks.