Neural Correlates of Simple and Complex Mental Calculation

摘要: Some authors proposed that exact mental calculation is based on linguistic representations and relies the perisylvian language cortices, while understanding of proximity relations between numerical quantities implicates parietal cortex. However, other opposed developmental arguments to suggest number sense emerges from nonspecific visuospatial processing areas in Within this debate, present study aimed at revealing functional anatomy two basic resolution strategies involved calculation, namely arithmetical fact retrieval actual computation, questioning particular respective role and/or cerebral areas. Regional blood flow was measured with positron emission tomography subjects were rest (Rest), read digits (Read), retrieved simple arithmetic facts memory (i.e., 2 x 4, Retrieve), performed complex 32 24, Compute). Compared Read, Retrieve engaged a left parieto-premotor circuit representing trace finger-counting representation mediates, by extension, knowledge adult. Beside network, naming including anterior insula right cerebellar cortex, it did not engage areas, which deactivated as compared Rest. In addition Compute specifically networks: parieto-frontal network charge holding multidigit numbers working bilateral inferior temporal gyri related visual imagery strategy. Overall, these results provide strong evidence involvement different levels calculation.