Sex Differences in Cerebral Energy Exchange Among Residents of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation

Abstract

This article presents the sexual characteristics of cerebral energy metabolism in young residents of the Arctic zone according to the distribution of the level of direct constant potential (DC-potential level) of the brain. The study involved 60 people (27 men and 33 women) aged 30-34 years, born and living in the Arctic territory. Assessment of cerebral energy exchange was carried out using a 5-channel hardware-software diagnostic complex «NeuroKM». The distribution of the DC-potential level was analyzed by mapping monopolar values and calculating their gradients. For statistical data processing, the SPSS Statistics26 software package was used. The obtained DC-potentials level results were compared with the average statistical standard values. As a result of the study, gender differences in cerebral energy exchange were revealed in working-age residents born and living in the Arctic zone, depending on gender. In the group of men, there is a higher intensity of cerebral energy exchange in the whole cerebral cortex, the absence of pronounced hemispheric dominance, activation of the central and frontal cortex. In women, there is no predominance of energy exchange in any one area, there are low total indicators, activation of the central and occipital regions of the cortex; connection of the central cortex with the temporal, right-hemisphere dominance of cerebral energy exchange processes. Conclusion. Men are characterized by centralization and tension of regulatory systems, which can be an unfavorable factor in ensuring long-term adaptation to the climatic conditions of the Arctic. Women have a more optimal level of cerebral energy exchange.