The Role of Brain Activation and Cerebral Blood Flow in Mental Fatigue.

The Role of Brain Activation and Cerebral Blood Flow in Mental Fatigue.

To assess the changes in brain activation and cerebral blood flow due to mental fatigue in a placebo-controlled study. More specifically we want to assess whether brain activation [measured with Blood Oxygen Level Dependent (BOLD) functional resonance imaging (fMRI)] is decreased during a Flanker task in a mentally fatigued state and whether this coincides with a decline in cognitive performance. In addition we also want to evaluate whether cerebral blood flow [measured with arterial spin labeled (ASL) fMRI] in a resting state is reduced when mentally fatigued.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy (No neurological/cardiorespiratory/psychological disorders)
• No medication
• Non-smoker
• Between 18 and 35 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

• Injuries
• Illness
• Pacemaker, neurostimulator, medication pump or metal implants
• Use of medication or any kind of drugs
• Use of alcohol, caffeine and heavy efforts 24 hours before each trial
• Not eating the same meal the night before and the morning of each trial