Fig. 4.

Diagrams showing statistical mediation analyses of the relationship between WMH and dementia by structural network measures The diagrams present standardized estimates (with p-values) for all direct associations, separately for global efficiency and strength of rich club, feeder and peripheral connections. The statistical significance of the direct and indirect paths is presented in the centre of the diagram. Dementia variable is a binary variable, diagnosed at follow-up. Analyses were performed using Lavaan, adjusted for age, sex and education. The effects of WMH on dementia were mediated by global network efficiency and the strength of peripheral connections (indirect effect), while the direct effects of WMH on dementia were not significant.