A brain imaging study to investigate the neural correlates of brain structural and functional connectivity in relation auditory abilities in maltreated children

2022 Fiscal Year Research-status Report

• Project/Area Number: 22K13677
• Research Institution: University of Fukui
• Principal Investigator: Natasha Kawata 福井大学, 子どものこころの発達研究センター, 特命助教 (70923415)
• Project Period (FY): 2022-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: Child maltreatment / auditory / MRI / VBM / rs-fMRI / DTI

Outline of Annual Research Achievements

During the current academic year, a dataset comprising information from 60 children was utilized. In addition to demographic data, we collected magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hearing data. To be more specific, we performed MRI scans on all 60 subjects using three protocols: T1 imaging for brain structure analysis, resting state functional MRI (fMRI) for examining functional connectivity, and diffusion imaging for investigating brain structure.

Current Status of Research Progress

2: Research has progressed on the whole more than it was originally planned.

Reason

This research will utilize magnetic resonance data obtained from a sample of 60 individuals to conduct both structural and functional analyses. The primary goal is to investigate the impact of environmental factors on brain development related to hearing.
Originally, data acquisition for MRI scans and hearing thresholds of the 60 subjects was scheduled for the current fiscal year. However, the sample collection was completed earlier than anticipated. We are currently assessing the quality of the images and verifying the inclusion criteria for subjects with typical development, before commencing with the data analysis.

Strategy for Future Research Activity

Over the upcoming academic years, all data collected - including data from the cognitive and auditory questionnaire - will be consolidated into a unified table. Furthermore, collaborative efforts with the University of Western's laboratories will commence for the analysis of magnetic resonance data.

Causes of Carryover

The data collected in the current study was gathered from the same subjects who participated in another previous study. Magnetic resonance data was obtained using the identical protocol, which is why only audiometry measurements were added to the existing study protocol.
The incurred amount will cover the cost of manuscript spell-checking as well as the publication fees in the scientific journal upon acceptance.