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Using fNIRS to Examine the Impact of Skill and Goal-Based Training on Resting State Functional Connectivity in Adults with Dyslexia
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- Author / Creator
- Orchard, Madilyn R
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Dyslexia is a lifelong reading disability characterized by poor spelling and decoding abilities, and difficulty in word recognition. Studies on the neurobiological mechanisms of dyslexia and related intervention programs are prevalent. However, as the majority of these studies are conducted with children, little is known about the plasticity and functional connectivity in the brain of an adult with dyslexia. Methods. The current study addressed this gap by analyzing resting state functional connectivity (RSFC), via functional near-infrared spectroscopy, in a group of adults with dyslexia (N = 25), both before and after administration of a skill (N = 13) or psychosocial-based (N = 12) remediation program. The bilateral superior temporal gyrus and the bilateral fusiform gyrus were selected as seed regions to explore connectivity. Results. Compiled group data revealed a significant increase in resting state connectivity for seven channels within the left based reading network, and 2 additional channels in the right hemisphere. Across training groups, 3 regions of interest showed a significant increase in resting state functional connectivity following the 8 week goal-based remediation program, while the skill-based program has increased resting state functional connectivity in only one region of interest (left fusiform gyrus). Conclusion. Both literacy and psychosocial-based training programs can induce brain changes (as measured by functional connectivity) in the brain of adults with dyslexia. These findings highlight the importance of developing diverse and accessible remediation programs to support cognitive and functional brain changes in adults with dyslexia, potentially improving their quality of life and social integration.
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- Graduation date
- Fall 2024
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- Type of Item
- Thesis
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- Degree
- Master of Science
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- License
- This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Library with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.