Arithmetic learning modifies the functional connectivity of the fronto-parietal network. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhao, Hui; Li, Xiaoxi; Karolis, Vyacheslav; Feng, Yi; Niu, Haijing; Butterworth, Brian
• Is Part Of: Cortex. Volume 111(2019)
• Page Start: 51
• Page End: 62
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Resting-state functional connectivity -- Arithmetic learning -- Functional near-infrared spectroscopy -- Fronto-parietal network; Neuropsychology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; Psychophysiology -- Periodicals; Behavior -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; 612.825
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2018.07.016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0010-9452

Abstract

Abstract: How Resting-State Functional Connectivity (RSFC) is modified by learning is an important but rarely asked question. Here we used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure changes in RSFC after learning novel subtraction and multiplication facts by forty-one young adult volunteers. We also measured changes in regional hemoglobin concentration. Fronto-parietal RSFC was modified by arithmetic learning and the fronto-parietal RSFC configuration before learning predicted the effectiveness of arithmetic learning. We also found a significant learning effect indicated by a monotonic decrease in reaction time and an increase in accuracy. Regional task-dependent oxy-hemoglobin concentration differentiated subtraction from multiplication learning supporting previous fMRI findings. These results suggest the sensitivity and importance of fronto-parietal connectivity to arithmetic learning.