Exploring Sex-Specific Brain Complexity in Quran Memorizers: A Fractal Dimension Approach

This study explores sex-specific variations in brain complexity among Quran memorizers (Huffaz) and non-Huffaz using fractal dimension (FD) analysis, a novel method for quantifying structural intricacies of the brain. By employing both box-counting and Fourier FD techniques, we analysed T1-weighted MRI scans from 47 healthy young adults, investigating whether intensive cognitive practices, such as Quran memorization, impact brain structure differently in males and females. The findings reveal significant sex-related differences in FD across multiple brain regions, with the declive, lingual gyrus, and medial frontal gyrus emerging as key areas of interest. These differences persisted even after controlling for Huffaz status, suggesting that both inherent sexual dimorphism and cognitive engagement contribute to brain complexity. The study underscores the potential of FD as a tool for understanding the nuanced interplay between sex, cognition, and brain structure, offering insights that may inform future research on brain morphology and sex-based neurological differences.