Neurocognitive Development of Reading Comprehension

In the last decade the advancement of neuroimaging methods has given us
important insights in changes in brain structure and function in late
childhood, adolescence and adulthood. The proposed study is aimed at examining
the development of reading comprehension and associated cognitive control
functions in relation to structural and functional brain development between
the ages of 8 and 30 years of age. In addition, it will enable the
investigation of individual differences in developmental trajectories and allow
for a better understanding of problems in the acquisition of reading
comprehension skills.

The main objective of this proposal is to request permission for recruitment
and participation of individuals between ages 8 and 30 in an fMRI session and
several behavioral testing sessions. These studies are aimed at relating brain
development to cognitive development in childhood, adolescence and early
adulthood.

The study uses an experimental design. Participants will perform age
appropriate computerized cognitive tasks. We will measure brain activation
using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) while participants are
performing these tasks and during rest. We will use structural MRI and
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) to measure underlying brain anatomical
processes. In addition, we will measure cognitive functioning on a battery of
tasks outside of the scanner. All measurements are non-invasive and age
appropriate.

There are no known risks associated with participating in an MRI study. This is
a noninvasive technique involving no catheterizations or introduction of
exogenous tracers. Numerous children and adults have undergone magnetic
resonance studies without apparent harmful consequences. Volunteers might
experience discomfort because of the scanner sounds or claustrophobia while
inside the magnet. In these cases the study will be terminated immediately at
the subject's request. The only absolute contraindications to MRI studies are
the presence of metal in the body. Relative contraindications include pregnancy
and claustrophobia. Participants who may be pregnant, who may have metallic
foreign bodies in the eyes, head or body, or who have cardiac pacemakers will
not be included in the study. Although there is no direct benefit to the
participants from this proposed research, there are greater benefits to society
from the potential knowledge gained from this study. Understanding of the
processes involved in higher order reading processes such as reading
comprehension, and the possible sources of difficulties has direct and
far-reaching implications for instructional practice, including diagnosis,
prevention, and remediation.