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Abstract #0782

Effects of a High Static Magnetic Field on (Higher) Cognitive Functions

Jran Lepsien1, Karsten Mller1, D. Yves von Cramon1,2, Harald E. Mller1

1Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany; 2Max Planck Institute for Neurological Research, Cologne, Germany


The possibility of exposure to high static magnetic fields altering cognitive performance in human volunteers was tested in a strictly controlled fashion. 24 participants conducted 6 different well-established paradigms covering a variety of cognitive processes. Sessions took place inside a 3T magnet with the main magnetic field being switched on and off. The analysis of reaction time and accuracy revealed no significant effect of the magnetic field in any of the 6 tasks related to the static field. The results indicate that exposure to a 3T field does not alter performance in cognitive tasks.