Functional Imaging in Turner Syndrome

Various experiments subjects perform in the scanner assess:

In this figure, there is a surface rendering of brain activation during the 2-back working memory task for control subjects (left) and subjects with Turner syndrome (right). For each group, the experimental and control conditions were contrasted in a within subject design, and the group results were analyzed using a one-way t-test. The t-statistics were normalized to Z scores, and significant clusters of activation were determined using the joint expected probability distribution of height and extent of Z scores, with height (Z > 2.33; p < 0.01) and extent threshold (p < 0.05). For controls, significant activation was observed in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, left inferior frontal gyrus, and bilateral superior parietal and supramarginal gyrus. In the Turner syndrome group, significant activation was observed only in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and parietal (superior parietal and supramarginal gyrus) cortex.

Behavioral Measures

To establish the neurocognitive profile, psychologists from the BNRC conduct individualized assessments with volunteers. Upon request, a research report summarizing the results of the cognitive assessment can be provided to each family. We use standard neurocognitive assessments that examine overall executive functioning, visuo-spatial skills, error-monitoring, and verbal skills.