Exploring how noise correlations affect learning in the brain
Cognitive and Molecular Challenges to Statistical Inference Across Healthy Aging
NA · Brown University · NCT06673303
This study is testing how background noise in the brain affects learning in people by using brain scans while they do tasks that require them to tell the difference between things.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Brown University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Providence, Rhode Island) |
| Trial ID | NCT06673303 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the role of noise correlations in neural populations and their impact on learning processes. By utilizing a dynamic perceptual discrimination task and fMRI imaging, researchers aim to measure how noise correlations influence the brain's ability to learn in both familiar and novel contexts. The study seeks to empirically test the hypothesis that these correlations can shape learning by focusing the learning gradient on relevant dimensions of neural space. This research could provide insights into the complexities of neural computation and learning mechanisms.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 with normal or correctable vision.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions contraindicated for MRI or those with significant neurological or psychological disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of neural learning processes and lead to improved strategies for addressing learning deficits.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of noise correlations has been theorized, this study represents a novel empirical approach to understanding their impact on learning.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age above 18 * Normal or correctable vision Exclusion Criteria: * Age under 18 * Claustrophobia * Color blindness * Neuroleptics medications * History of drug abuse and/or alcoholism * Conditions contraindicated for MRI such as: * Surgical implant that is not MRI compatible * Metal fragments in the body * Tattoo with metallic ink * Eye diseases / impairment: * Cataracts * Macular degeneration * Retinopathies * Partial vision loss * Medical history: * Stroke * Traumatic brain injury * Epilepsy * Schizophrenia * Manic depression with symptoms including but not limited to psychosis, mania, delusional thinking, and audio/visual hallucinations.
Where this trial is running
Providence, Rhode Island
- Brown University — Providence, Rhode Island, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Matthew Nassar, PhD — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Matthew Nassar, PhD
- Email: matthew_nassar@brown.edu
- Phone: 6073164932
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Noise Correlations, Learning Quality, noise correlations, perceptual learning, neural network, feature dimensions