Abstract
BackgroundAirlines occupy an increasingly important place in the economy of many countries. Because air disasters may cause substantial losses, comprehensive surveys of the psychophysiological mechanism of flying are needed; however, relatively few studies have focused on pilots. The default mode network (DMN) is an important intrinsic connectivity network involved in a range of functions related to flying. This study aimed to examine functional properties of the DMN in pilots.MethodResting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 26 pilots and 24 controls were collected. Independent component analysis, a data-driven approach, was combined with functional connectivity analysis to investigate functional properties of the DMN in pilots.ResultsThe pilot group exhibited increased functional integration in the precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and left middle occipital gyrus. Subsequent functional connectivity analysis identified enhanced functional connection between the precuneus/PCC and medial superior frontal gyrus.ConclusionThe pilot group exhibited increased functional connections within the DMN. These findings highlight the importance of the DMN in the neurophysiological mechanism of flying.
Highlights
Airlines continue to grow at a high speed and occupy an increasingly important place in the economy of many countries
The pilot group exhibited increased functional connections within the default mode network (DMN). These findings highlight the importance of the DMN in the neurophysiological mechanism of flying
We focused on examining the functional properties of the DMN in pilots
Summary
Airlines continue to grow at a high speed and occupy an increasingly important place in the economy of many countries. Human factors in aviation accidents have become the main causes It appears that the most effective strategies to promoting aviation safety is to select pilots with high safety capabilities. Some studies have focused on the neural mechanism of specific processes during flying such as decision making (Causse et al, 2013; Adamson et al, 2014) and mental strategy (Peres et al, 2000). Because air disasters may cause substantial losses, comprehensive surveys of the psychophysiological mechanism of flying are needed; relatively few studies have focused on pilots. The default mode network (DMN) is an important intrinsic connectivity network involved in a range of functions related to flying. This study aimed to examine functional properties of the DMN in pilots
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
