Frontiers in Neuroscience (Jan 2020)

Altered Default Mode Network Dynamics in Civil Aviation Pilots

  • Xi Chen,
  • Kaijun Xu,
  • Yong Yang,
  • Quanchuan Wang,
  • Hao Jiang,
  • Xiangmei Guo,
  • Xipeng Chen,
  • Jiazhong Yang,
  • Cheng Luo

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2019.01406
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13

Abstract

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BackgroundAirlines occupy an increasingly important place in the economy of many countries. Because air disasters may cause substantial losses, comprehensive surveys of the psychophysiological mechanism of flying are needed; however, relatively few studies have focused on pilots. The default mode network (DMN) is an important intrinsic connectivity network involved in a range of functions related to flying. This study aimed to examine functional properties of the DMN in pilots.MethodResting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 26 pilots and 24 controls were collected. Independent component analysis, a data-driven approach, was combined with functional connectivity analysis to investigate functional properties of the DMN in pilots.ResultsThe pilot group exhibited increased functional integration in the precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and left middle occipital gyrus. Subsequent functional connectivity analysis identified enhanced functional connection between the precuneus/PCC and medial superior frontal gyrus.ConclusionThe pilot group exhibited increased functional connections within the DMN. These findings highlight the importance of the DMN in the neurophysiological mechanism of flying.

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