Exploring the roles of key regions in the frontal cortex to semantic and domain-general executive control via TMS and fMRI. Find the code and data related to the projects’ publications here: https://gitlab.gwdg.de/mdn-in-aging-and-aphasia/mdn_aph and https://osf.io/q5kam/. Related publications: TMS over the Pre-SMA Enhances Semantic Cognition via Remote Network Effects on Task-Based Activity and Connectivity Causal contributions of left inferior and medial frontal cortex to semantic and executive control
In this project, we explore the role of domain-general executive networks in the generation and processing of word surprisal and how these processes change over the adult lifespan. To this end, we implemented a natural reading paradigm and combined with an n-back task to increase executive load in some task blocks. We use language surprisal, generated with GPT-2, as proxy of predictability. In a first step, we tested the paradigm in a large sample (n = 175 participants, aged 18-85 years) behaviorally – online and in the lab. Our results show that predictability effects increase with age, such that higher cognitive load consistently diminished the impact of word predictability on reading speed. These findings highlight the resource-dependent nature of predictive mechanisms in language comprehension across the lifespan. We conclude that linguistic predictions rely on executive resources. We are now running this study in the MRI and are also planning to explore the causal relevance of certain regions via non-invasive brain stimulation. Related Output: Preprint Executive Resources Shape the Effects of Language Predictability Across the Adult Lifespan Conferences Link to the poster I presented at SNL 2023
We investigated age-related changes in semantic control and representation using fMRI, network neuroscience, and graph theory. Find the code and data related to the projects’ publications here: https://gitlab.gwdg.de/functionalconnectivityaging Related publications: Age-Dependent Contribution of Domain-General Networks to Semantic Cognition Age-Related Reorganization of Functional Network Architecture in Semantic Cognition Semantic Integration Demands Modulate Large-Scale Network Interactions in the Brain
How can we make the application of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in cognitive neuroscience more robust and replicable? How can we advance its understanding for clinical applications? This page collects projects that I lead or participate in, aiming to answer these questions or at least approximate them. Related publications: Target-Specificity and Repeatability in Neuro-Cardiac-Guided TMS for Heart-Brain Coupling
