Analyzing neural response to visual stimuli: Firing rates, frequency band dynamics, and synchrony in near and far flanker conditions
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Abstract
The present work investigates how spatial configurations of distractor stimuli influence neural processing during visual perception, specifically contrasting Near and Far flanker conditions. Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings of 50 people were obtained from an online open-access database called OpenNeuro and evenly assigned to each condition. A multimodal analytical approach was employed, incorporating spectrogram analysis, wavelet transformation, time-frequency decomposition, and cross-correlation to comprehensively characterize neural activity. Inferred neural firing rates were examined to assess differences in cognitive engagement. Results indicate that the Near flanker condition elicited increased delta and theta band power in frontal regions and higher estimated firing rates, suggesting elevated cognitive load and attentional demands. In contrast, the Far condition exhibited greater alpha and beta activity, consistent with more efficient neural processing. Despite these trends, statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in firing rates between the two conditions (p = 0.735). These findings highlight the impact of spatial context on attentional modulation and underscore the utility of EEG-based measures for probing the neural mechanisms underlying visual cognition.
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This Zenodo record is a permanently preserved version of a PREreview. You can view the complete PREreview at https://prereview.org/reviews/15556542.
The purpose of the Study was to assess the brain's response to visual stimuli given the Far and Near Flanker Conditions, with a supporting hypothesis of substantial differences in neuronal firing rates between the two conditions. This study had both Strengths and Limitations that we have addressed.
STRENGTHS:
Abstract:
Good job of introducing the topic and giving an idea of what to expect from the study
Introduction:
Good justification for the usage of Neuroimaging Model EEG
Methodology:
Careful experimental controls
Appropriate Standardized procedures
Comprehensive EEG processing
Testing Environment was similar to all the participants
Results:
Strong Multimodal EEG analysis
Good visual data …
This Zenodo record is a permanently preserved version of a PREreview. You can view the complete PREreview at https://prereview.org/reviews/15556542.
The purpose of the Study was to assess the brain's response to visual stimuli given the Far and Near Flanker Conditions, with a supporting hypothesis of substantial differences in neuronal firing rates between the two conditions. This study had both Strengths and Limitations that we have addressed.
STRENGTHS:
Abstract:
Good job of introducing the topic and giving an idea of what to expect from the study
Introduction:
Good justification for the usage of Neuroimaging Model EEG
Methodology:
Careful experimental controls
Appropriate Standardized procedures
Comprehensive EEG processing
Testing Environment was similar to all the participants
Results:
Strong Multimodal EEG analysis
Good visual data representations
Good Multi-layered approach to understanding neurological distinctions (rate, timing, frequency, and synchronization
Discussion + Conclusion:
Good job of summarizing and explaining the research findings outlined in the paper
LIMITATIONS:
Introduction
Needs to specify on statistical analysis methods from beginning → helps readers to understand from the beginning
Methodology
Proper Statistical Testing of Differences
Better Justification for Spatial Parameters
Investigation of why some individuals show reversed effects
Adding behavioral measures like reaction times could help validate the cognitive load interpretation
Results:
Main assertion that there is increased brain activity in the Near condition is not statistically significant, but it is still described as though it were significant, making the conclusions less compelling.
There is no thorough explanation of effect sizes or confidence intervals when the p-value is presented
Despite a large number of EEG measures and time points, correction for multiple comparisons is not mentioned
Although they are used descriptively, visualizations such as the plots lack statistical annotations or quantification to support their conclusions
Without taking into account other possible factors (such as task-related weariness or individual variability), the authors presume that higher delta/theta always indicates cognitive stress
Although it is acknowledged previously in the study, the results do not address or account for inter-subject variation in brain activity
The study's results cannot be generalized to other populations like unhealthy and younger people
Competing interests
The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
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