We’re still relatively new in this 2014 year and there is still time to catch the coat tails of all those resolutions you set. In reality, however, the concept of the brain’s involvement in resolutions (and their perceived value) is quite fascinating. A new Princeton Neuroscience Institute research study found a fundamental mechanism in the prefrontal cortex that contributes to task concentration and working memory. In the study, participants were tasked to play a simple game requiring them to push a button after certain letters were displayed on a screen. Initially, participants had no trouble performing the required tasks until researchers presented a harmless magnetic pulse to a specific area of the prefrontal cortex. Once this pulse was triggered, 150 milliseconds after the letter appeared on the screen, participants could no longer complete the task and push the button. Researches believe that there is a unique system central to cognitive function and transitioning, and when implicated, even the most simple tasks can be difficult.
There is ample scientific evidence illustrating that when new information is used to update a behavior or task, this information is automatically stored in the brain’s short-term memory. Short-term memory is an active “working” area of the brain that uses relative information temporarily, then discards it if it’s not perceived relevant. Information that is valid, in the brain’s opinion, is stored for later recall. Researches, however, did not know that this working memory is updated with specific mechanisms in the brain.
Using three tesla-MRIs researchers were able to probe the activity of dopamine releasing cells in the brain and found a correlation with the right prefrontal cortex and the participant’s inability to transition tasks. Their theory is that dopamine – the feel good chemical naturally occurring in the brain – tags stimuli and data as it is processed by the brain in transition from perception to working memory. If this “tagging” or labeling is interrupted, then the brain has a difficult time understanding what is relevant with the task at hand.
If you find difficulty performing once simple tasks, transitioning between activities, accomplishing goals or if you often forget what you were doing, it may be useful to see a neurologist. Many dopamine-related disorders can be treated, or off-set, if found early. Newport Beach Neurosurgeon, Dr. Duma is one of the most experienced brain surgeons in his field at treating a variety of brain disorders. Call us at 949-642-6787 to set up a consultation.
