Functional Integration between Salience and Central Executive Networks: A Role for Action Video Game Experience.

Diankun Gong,Cheng Luo,Weiyi Ma,Jinnan Gong,Mengting Huang,Dongbo Liu,Li Dong,Hui He,Jianfu Li,Dezhong Yao

doi:10.1155/2016/9803165

Abstract

Action video games (AVGs) have attracted increasing research attention as they offer a unique perspective into the relation between active learning and neural plasticity. However, little research has examined the relation between AVG experience and the plasticity of neural network mechanisms. It has been proposed that AVG experience is related to the integration between Salience Network (SN) and Central Executive Network (CEN), which are responsible for attention and working memory, respectively, two cognitive functions essential for AVG playing. This study initiated a systematic investigation of this proposition by analyzing AVG experts' and amateurs' resting-state brain functions through graph theoretical analyses and functional connectivity. Results reveal enhanced intra- and internetwork functional integrations in AVG experts compared to amateurs. The findings support the possible relation between AVG experience and the neural network plasticity.

Highlights

One of the most prominent changes to our modern lives is the use of computers, which has adapted our entertainment experience with the introduction of video games
Research shows that Action video games (AVGs) experts have enhanced spatial distribution of visuospatial attention [9], attentional capture [10], and attention shifting at switching tasks [11]
This study examines the relation between AVG experience and the integration of Salience Network (SN) and Central Executive Network (CEN) by comparing AVG experts and amateurs

Summary

Introduction

One of the most prominent changes to our modern lives is the use of computers, which has adapted our entertainment experience with the introduction of video games. Research has shown that AVG experience is related to enhanced primary (e.g., visual processing [3,4,5], eyehand coordination [6], contrast sensitivity [4], oculomotor performance [7], and body movement [8]) and higher-level cognitive functions (e.g., attention and working memory). Little research has examined the relation between AVG experience and the integration of attentional and working memory networks. This study examines the relation between AVG experience and the integration of SN and CEN by comparing AVG experts and amateurs. We predict that if AVG experience is related to the integration of SN and CEN, experts should have enhanced functional integration compared to amateurs

Materials and Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusions