Fig. 5. Partial least squares path model (PLS-PM) showing that functional connectivity is linked to diminished anxiety-like behavior in the IS group.

A PLS-PM model grouped into intra-PFC, PFC–subcortical (SUB), and intra-subcortical connections. Measures of anxiety-like behavior include the duration of maternal clinging, latency to first terminate maternal clinging, inverse of object exploration counts, and latency to first explore an object. B, C Model weights are presented for significant functional connectivity and stress-induced anxiety-like behavioral measures, respectively. D Hierarchical cluster analysis of weights and loadings using all functional connectivity features reveals two major clusters. E In the cluster with higher weights and loadings (Cluster 2), predictive features are predominantly PFC–subcortical connections (yellow boundary).