Aims

Recent reviews yield contradictory findings regarding the efficacy of working memory training and transfer to untrained tasks. We reviewed working memory updating (WMU) training studies and examined cognitive and neural outcomes on training and transfer tasks.

Methods

Database searches for adult brain imaging studies of WMU training were conducted. Training-induced neural changes were assessed qualitatively, and meta-analyses were performed on behavioural training and transfer effects.

Results

A large behavioural training effect was found for WMU training groups compared to control groups. There was a moderate near transfer effect on tasks in the same cognitive domain, and a non-significant effect for far transfer to other cognitive domains. Functional neuroimaging changes for WMU training tasks revealed consistent frontoparietal activity decreases while both decreases and increases were found for subcortical regions.

Conclusions

WMU training promotes plasticity and has potential applications in optimizing interventions for neurological populations. Future research should focus on the mechanisms and factors underlying plasticity and generalisation of training gains.

中文翻译：

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工作记忆更新培训可促进可塑性和行为收益：系统的回顾和荟萃分析。

目的

最近的评论得出有关工作记忆训练和转移到未经训练的任务的功效的矛盾发现。我们审查了工作记忆更新（WMU）培训研究，并检查了有关培训和转移任务的认知和神经结局。

方法

对WMU训练的成人脑成像研究进行了数据库搜索。定性评估训练引起的神经变化，并对行为训练和转移效果进行荟萃分析。

结果

与对照组相比，WMU训练组的行为训练效果显着。对相同认知域中的任务有中等程度的近距离转移效应，而对于远距离转移至其他认知域则没有显着影响。WMU训练任务的功能性神经影像学变化显示，持续的额顶活动减少，而皮层下区域则同时减少和增加。

结论

WMU培训可提高可塑性，并在优化神经系统人群的干预措施方面具有潜在的应用。未来的研究应着重于可塑性和培训收益普遍化的机制和因素。