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Cross-Modal Multivariate Pattern Analysis
Published on: November 9, 2011
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Surface-Based Cortical Measures in Multimodal Association Brain Regions Predict Chess Expertise
Nicolò Trevisan1,2, Assia Jaillard3,4, Giulia Cattarinussi1,2
1Department of Neuroscience (DNS), University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy.
Brain Sciences
|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.
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.
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