When problem size matters: differential effects of brain stimulation on arithmetic problem solving and neural oscillations

PloS One
Bruno RütscheRoland H Grabner

Abstract

The problem size effect is a well-established finding in arithmetic problem solving and is characterized by worse performance in problems with larger compared to smaller operand size. Solving small and large arithmetic problems has also been shown to involve different cognitive processes and distinct electroencephalography (EEG) oscillations over the left posterior parietal cortex (LPPC). In this study, we aimed to provide further evidence for these dissociations by using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Participants underwent anodal (30min, 1.5 mA, LPPC) and sham tDCS. After the stimulation, we recorded their neural activity using EEG while the participants solved small and large arithmetic problems. We found that the tDCS effects on performance and oscillatory activity critically depended on the problem size. While anodal tDCS improved response latencies in large arithmetic problems, it decreased solution rates in small arithmetic problems. Likewise, the lower-alpha desynchronization in large problems increased, whereas the theta synchronization in small problems decreased. These findings reveal that the LPPC is differentially involved in solving small and large arithmetic problems and demonstrate that the effe...Continue Reading

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Citations

May 15, 2015·The European Journal of Neuroscience·Roland H GrabnerTobias U Hauser
Jan 29, 2019·Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience : the Official Scientific Journal of the Korean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·Vanteemar S SreerajGanesan Venkatasubramanian
Apr 21, 2018·Frontiers in Neuroscience·Silke M BieckElise Klein
Mar 3, 2020·Frontiers in Human Neuroscience·Jochen A MosbacherRoland H Grabner

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Software Mentioned

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