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Cross-Modal Multivariate Pattern Analysis

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Published on: November 9, 2011

Surface-Based Cortical Measures in Multimodal Association Brain Regions Predict Chess Expertise.

Nicolò Trevisan^1,2, Assia Jaillard^3,4, Giulia Cattarinussi^1,2

¹Department of Neuroscience (DNS), University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy.

|November 24, 2022

Summary

Chess expertise is linked to distinct brain structure changes, particularly in cortical complexity. Long-term practice shapes these neuroplastic effects, impacting cognitive functions.

Keywords:

chess expertise cortical complexity fractal dimension gyrification structural magnetic resonance imaging

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Published on: October 24, 2012

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cognitive Neuroscience
Neuroimaging

Background:

High-order cognitive functions, like chess mastery, rely on complex brain structures.
Surface-based brain measures, such as fractional dimension (FD) and gyrification index (GI), may offer greater sensitivity to cortical changes than volumetric measures.
Understanding the neural underpinnings of expertise can reveal insights into brain plasticity.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate differences in surface-based brain measures between chess experts and novices.
To identify brain regions and measures predictive of chess expertise.
To explore the relationship between brain structure changes and the duration of chess practice.

Main Methods:

Structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) data were acquired from 29 chess experts and 29 novice participants.
The CAT12 toolbox was employed for surface-based analysis, calculating FD and GI for various brain regions.
Multivariate statistical modeling was used to identify predictors of chess expertise.

Main Results:

Chess experts exhibited increased FD in the left frontal operculum and decreased FD in the right superior parietal lobule compared to novices.
FD in a fronto-parieto-temporal network predicted chess expertise.
GI changes were observed in the middle cingulate gyrus and superior temporal sulcus.
Increased FD in the left frontal operculum correlated negatively with the age at which participants began chess practice.

Conclusions:

Chess expertise is associated with alterations in the complexity of the brain's surface, particularly within transmodal association areas.
These structural brain changes are linked to long-term practice, suggesting significant neuroplasticity over time.
The findings highlight the brain's adaptability in supporting advanced cognitive skills through dedicated training.