When less is more: Enhanced statistical learning of non-adjacent dependencies after disruption of bilateral DLPFC

Authors: Ambrus, G.G., Vékony, T., Janacsek, K., Trimborn, A.B.C., Kovács, G. and Nemeth, D.

Journal: Journal of Memory and Language

Volume: 114

ISSN: 0749-596X

DOI: 10.1016/j.jml.2020.104144

Abstract:

Brain networks related to human learning can interact in cooperative but also competitive ways to optimize performance. The investigation of learning and memory processes in a competitive framework is still rare. Previous studies have shown that manipulations reducing the engagement of prefrontal cortical areas could lead to improved statistical learning performance. However, no study has investigated how disruption of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) affects the acquisition and consolidation of non-adjacent second-order dependencies. The present study aimed to test the role of the DLPFC, more specifically, the Brodmann 9 area in implicit temporal statistical learning of non-adjacent dependencies. We applied 1 Hz inhibitory transcranial magnetic stimulation or sham stimulation over both the left and right DLPFC intermittently during the learning. The DLPFC-stimulated group showed better performance compared to the sham group after a 24-hour consolidation period. This finding suggests that the disruption of DLPFC during learning induces qualitative changes in the consolidation of non-adjacent statistical regularities. A possible mechanism behind this result is that the stimulation of the DLPFC promotes a shift to model-free learning by weakening the access to model-based processes.

Source: Scopus

When less is more: Enhanced statistical learning of non-adjacent dependencies after disruption of bilateral DLPFC

Authors: Ambrus, G.G., Vekony, T., Janacsek, K., Trimborn, A.B.C., Kovacs, G. and Nemeth, D.

Journal: JOURNAL OF MEMORY AND LANGUAGE

Volume: 114

eISSN: 1096-0821

ISSN: 0749-596X

DOI: 10.1016/j.jml.2020.104144

Source: Web of Science (Lite)

When less is more: Enhanced statistical learning of non-adjacent dependencies after disruption of bilateral DLPFC

Authors: Ambrus, G.G., Vékony, T., Janacsek, K., Trimborn, A.B.C., Kovács, G. and Nemeth, D.

Journal: Journal of Memory and Language

Volume: 114

ISSN: 0749-596X

DOI: 10.1016/j.jml.2020.104144

Abstract:

Brain networks related to human learning can interact in cooperative but also competitive ways to optimize performance. The investigation of learning and memory processes in a competitive framework is still rare. Previous studies have shown that manipulations reducing the engagement of prefrontal cortical areas could lead to improved statistical learning performance. However, no study has investigated how disruption of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) affects the acquisition and consolidation of non-adjacent second-order dependencies. The present study aimed to test the role of the DLPFC, more specifically, the Brodmann 9 area in implicit temporal statistical learning of non-adjacent dependencies. We applied 1 Hz inhibitory transcranial magnetic stimulation or sham stimulation over both the left and right DLPFC intermittently during the learning. The DLPFC-stimulated group showed better performance compared to the sham group after a 24-hour consolidation period. This finding suggests that the disruption of DLPFC during learning induces qualitative changes in the consolidation of non-adjacent statistical regularities. A possible mechanism behind this result is that the stimulation of the DLPFC promotes a shift to model-free learning by weakening the access to model-based processes.

Source: Manual

Preferred by: Géza Gergely Ambrus