Working memory training and perceptual discrimination training impact overlapping and distinct neurocognitive processes: Evidence from event-related potentials and transfer of training gains

Improved cognitive performance and event-related potential changes following working memory training in patients with multiple sclerosis

“…See Figure 1 for an overview of the participants and study measures. For the present analyses, we selected a subset of HC n -back training participants from our larger study 37 for comparison with the MS n -back training group. We selected individuals for the HC group so that there would be comparable sample size and demographics between patients and HCs (final sample, MS n = 12, HC n = 12).…”

“… 40 The level of n of the subsequent block was adaptively altered based on the participant’s performance on the previous block, as described elsewhere. 9 , 37 If a participant’s accuracy was high on a given block (> 88.8% accuracy overall, and > 86.5% correct matches), then the subsequent block would be a more difficult n -back level (e.g. from a 2-back to a 3-back level).…”

“…The parameters of these tests are described in detail in the supplementary material (Figure S1) and elsewhere. 37 Participants completed a Letter 3-back task that served to measure improvement on the training task (see Figure S1A). During this task, letters were presented on the computer screen one at a time.…”

“…The EEG acquisition, off-line processing, artifact rejection, and signal averaging procedures that were used in the present study have been described in detail elsewhere. 36 , 37 ERP waveforms were obtained for Match, Non-Match, and Lure trial categories. Epoch window parameters were: 1050 msec long, 150 msec baseline, 900 msec post-stimulus.…”

“…Frontal (Fz), central (Cz), and parietal (Pz) electrode clusters were analyzed in the present study for the P3 component, and Fz and Cz clusters were analyzed for the N2 component, as described previously. 36 , 37 The N2 and P3 peak amplitude and latency values were extracted for analysis based on the grand averages. Visualization of the ERPs via the grand averages and the selection of component peaks was limited to the 150 msec pre-stimulus and 750 msec post-stimulus (900 msec total) of the ERP waveform.…”