1
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Guo Z, Lv J, Liu X, Pan W, Song DA. Exploring virtual reality as an anxiety-inducing paradigm: Multimodal insights from subjective, behavioral and neurophysiological measures. Behav Brain Res 2025; 489:115610. [PMID: 40311938 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2025.115610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2025] [Accepted: 04/25/2025] [Indexed: 05/03/2025]
Abstract
Anxiety results from the complex interplay between innate defensive responses to perceived threats and higher-order cognitive processes, mediated by specialized circuits in the human neocortex. Traditional methods of anxiety induction often fail to replicate the inherent unpredictability of threats or maintain ecological validity, thereby limiting their ability to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms of anxiety. To overcome these limitations, this study aimed to explore the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) as an innovative anxiety-inducing tool. By further using its ability to simulate real world scenes, the neural activities inducing anxiety in VR scenes were studied. VR is used to induce anxiety through customized scenarios, while a range of data, including subjective self-reports, objective performance measures, eye movement data, and EEG signals, are collected. The findings indicate that VR is efficacious in induced anxiety, which manifests through the arousal of anxious emotions, alterations in cognitive processes, and distinct neurophysiological patterns, particularly increased theta and alpha activity in the frontal and parietal regions. This research reinforces the ecological validity of VR as a research tool, contributing to a deeper understanding of the neurophysiological basis of anxiety and providing a more nuanced framework for both anxiety research and interventions in real-world contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Manufacturing Technology of the Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550025, China
| | - Jian Lv
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Manufacturing Technology of the Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550025, China.
| | - Xiang Liu
- Biology&Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550025, China
| | - Weijie Pan
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Manufacturing Technology of the Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550025, China
| | - Ding-An Song
- Guizhou Aerospace Control Technology Co., Ltd., Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550025, China
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2
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Maack MC, Ostrowski J, Rose M. The order of multisensory associative sequences is reinstated as context feature during successful recognition. Sci Rep 2025; 15:18120. [PMID: 40413194 PMCID: PMC12103560 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-02553-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2025] [Indexed: 05/27/2025] Open
Abstract
The ability of the human brain to encode and recognize sequential information from different sensory modalities is key to memory formation. The sequence in which these modalities are presented during encoding critically affects recognition. This study investigates the encoding of sensory modality sequences and its neural impact on recognition using multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) of oscillatory EEG activity. We examined the reinstatement of multisensory episode-specific sequences in n = 32 participants who encoded sound-image associations (e.g., the image of a ship with the sound of a frog). Images and sounds were natural scenes and 2-second real-life sounds, presented sequentially during encoding. During recognition, stimulus pairs were presented simultaneously, and classification was used to test whether the modality sequence order could be decoded as a contextual feature in memory. Oscillatory results identified a distinct neural signature during successful retrieval, associated with the original modality sequence. Furthermore, MVPA successfully decoded neural patterns of different modality sequences, hinting at specific memory traces. These findings suggest that the sequence in which sensory modalities are encoded forms a neural signature, affecting later recognition. This study provides novel insights into the relationship between modality encoding and recognition, with broad implications for cognitive neuroscience and memory research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marike Christiane Maack
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg‑Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Building W34, 20248, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan Ostrowski
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg‑Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Building W34, 20248, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Rose
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg‑Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Building W34, 20248, Hamburg, Germany.
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3
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Biau E, Wang D, Park H, Jensen O, Hanslmayr S. Neocortical and Hippocampal Theta Oscillations Track Audiovisual Integration and Replay of Speech Memories. J Neurosci 2025; 45:e1797242025. [PMID: 40389299 PMCID: PMC12096043 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1797-24.2025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2025] [Accepted: 04/08/2025] [Indexed: 05/21/2025] Open
Abstract
"Are you talkin' to me?!" If you ever watched the masterpiece "Taxi Driver" directed by Martin Scorsese, you certainly recall the monologue during which Travis Bickle rehearses an imaginary confrontation in front of a mirror. While remembering this scene, you recollect a myriad of speech features across visual and auditory senses with a smooth sensation of unified memory. The aim of this study was to investigate how the fine-grained synchrony between coinciding visual and auditory features impacts brain oscillations when forming multisensory speech memories. We developed a memory task presenting participants with short synchronous or asynchronous movie clips focused on the face of speakers in real interviews, all the while undergoing magnetoencephalography recording. In the synchronous condition, the natural alignment between visual and auditory onsets was kept intact. In the asynchronous condition, auditory onsets were delayed to present lip movements and speech sounds in antiphase specifically with respect to the theta oscillation synchronizing them in the original movie. Our results first showed that theta oscillations in the neocortex and hippocampus were modulated by the level of synchrony between lip movements and syllables during audiovisual speech perception. Second, theta asynchrony between the lip movements and auditory envelope during audiovisual speech perception reduced the accuracy of subsequent theta oscillation reinstatement during memory recollection. We conclude that neural theta oscillations play a pivotal role in both audiovisual integration and memory replay of speech.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Biau
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZA, United Kingdom
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Danying Wang
- Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Hyojin Park
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Ole Jensen
- Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Hanslmayr
- Centre for Neurotechnology, School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QB, United Kingdom
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4
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Kerrén C, Reznik D, Doeller CF, Griffiths BJ. Exploring the role of dimensionality transformation in episodic memory. Trends Cogn Sci 2025:S1364-6613(25)00021-X. [PMID: 39952797 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2025.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 01/20/2025] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 02/17/2025]
Abstract
Episodic memory must accomplish two adversarial goals: encoding and storing a multitude of experiences without exceeding the finite neuronal structure of the brain, and recalling memories in vivid detail. Dimensionality reduction and expansion ('dimensionality transformation') enable the brain to meet these demands. Reduction compresses sensory input into simplified, storable codes, while expansion reconstructs vivid details. Although these processes are essential to memory, their neural mechanisms for episodic memory remain unclear. Drawing on recent insights from cognitive psychology, systems neuroscience, and neuroanatomy, we propose two accounts of how dimensionality transformation occurs in the brain: structurally (via corticohippocampal pathways) and functionally (through neural oscillations). By examining cross-species evidence, we highlight neural mechanisms that may support episodic memory and identify crucial questions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper Kerrén
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Daniel Reznik
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian F Doeller
- Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany; Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience, Centre for Neural Computation, Egil and Pauline Braathen and Fred Kavli Centre for Cortical Microcircuits, Jebsen Centre for Alzheimer's Disease, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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5
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Freelin A, Wolfe C, Lega B. Models of human hippocampal specialization: a look at the electrophysiological evidence. Trends Cogn Sci 2024:S1364-6613(24)00318-8. [PMID: 39668062 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2024.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 11/08/2024] [Accepted: 11/20/2024] [Indexed: 12/14/2024]
Abstract
From an anatomical perspective, the concept that the anterior and posterior hippocampus fulfill distinct cognitive roles may seem unsurprising. When compared with the posterior hippocampus, the anterior region is proportionally larger, with visible expansion of the CA1 subfield and intimate continuity with adjacent medial temporal lobe (MTL) structures such as the uncus and amygdala. However, the functional relevance emerging from these anatomical differences remains to be established in humans. Drawing on both rodent and human data, several models of hippocampal longitudinal specialization have been proposed. For the brevity and clarity of this review, we focus on human electrophysiological evidence supporting and contravening these models with limited inclusion of noninvasive data. We then synthesize these data to propose a novel longitudinal model based on the amount of contextual information, drawing on previous conceptions described within the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Freelin
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Cody Wolfe
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Bradley Lega
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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6
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Liljefors J, Almeida R, Rane G, Lundström JN, Herman P, Lundqvist M. Distinct functions for beta and alpha bursts in gating of human working memory. Nat Commun 2024; 15:8950. [PMID: 39419974 PMCID: PMC11486900 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53257-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple neural mechanisms underlying gating to working memory have been proposed with divergent results obtained in human and animal studies. Previous findings from non-human primates suggest prefrontal beta frequency bursts as a correlate of transient inhibition during selective encoding. Human studies instead suggest a similar role for sensory alpha power fluctuations. To cast light on these discrepancies we employed a sequential working memory task with distractors for human participants. In particular, we examined their whole-brain electrophysiological activity in both alpha and beta bands with the same single-trial burst analysis earlier performed on non-human primates. Our results reconcile earlier findings by demonstrating that both alpha and beta bursts in humans correlate with the filtering and control of memory items, but with region and task-specific differences between the two rhythms. Occipital beta burst patterns were selectively modulated during the transition from sensory processing to memory retention whereas prefrontal and parietal beta bursts tracked sequence order and were proactively upregulated prior to upcoming target encoding. Occipital alpha bursts instead increased during the actual presentation of unwanted sensory stimuli. Source reconstruction additionally suggested the involvement of striatal and thalamic alpha and beta. Thus, specific whole-brain burst patterns correlate with different aspects of working memory control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Liljefors
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rita Almeida
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm University Brain Imaging Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gustaf Rane
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan N Lundström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Pawel Herman
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and Digital Futures, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10044, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Lundqvist
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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7
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Wynn SC, Townsend CD, Nyhus E. The role of theta and gamma oscillations in item memory, source memory, and memory confidence. Psychophysiology 2024; 61:e14602. [PMID: 38715221 PMCID: PMC11330366 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Theta and gamma oscillations have been linked to episodic memory processes in various studies. Both oscillations seem to be vital for processes guided by the medial temporal lobe, such as the retrieval of information from memory. While theta oscillations increase with successful memory, it is unclear what the unique contribution of theta is to various subcomponents of memory. On the other hand, memory-related gamma oscillations have been mainly reported in the hippocampus, leaving the role of neocortical gamma in memory underexplored. In this study, we investigated how unique variability in memory accuracy and memory confidence contributes to fluctuations in theta and gamma power. To this end, we recorded EEG from 54 participants while they performed a source memory task. From this task we obtained their item memory accuracy, source memory accuracy, item memory confidence, and source memory confidence. These behavioral measures were put in a trial-by-trial linear mixed effects model to uncover their unique contribution to the oscillatory power in frontal and parietal regions. Our results are in line with the involvement of theta oscillations in both memory accuracy and confidence, but seem to indicate a main role for theta oscillations in memory-related confidence. In addition, we found that gamma oscillations play various roles in memory processing, dependent on brain region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syanah C Wynn
- Neuroimaging Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine, USA
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christopher D Townsend
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Erika Nyhus
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine, USA
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8
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Xu J, Shen L, Fei H, Zhou W, Wan F, Nan W. Effect of excessive internet gaming on inhibitory control based on resting EEG and ERP. iScience 2024; 27:110399. [PMID: 39081290 PMCID: PMC11284701 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous research indicates that individuals with Internet gaming disorder (IGD) show impaired inhibitory control and abnormal EEG/ERP patterns. However, it is unclear how those individuals with excessive Internet game use (EUG) but without addiction differ. This study examined inhibitory control, resting EEG, and ERP in EUG gamers compared to non-gamers. Fifteen participants in each group underwent 4-min eyes-closed EEG recordings and a color-word Stroop task. Results showed no significant differences in reaction time, accuracy, or P3 amplitude between EUG gamers and non-gamers. However, EUG gamers exhibited shortened P3 latency, which may suggest enhanced inhibitory control. Additionally, EUG gamers showed reduced theta and alpha band power during the resting state compared to non-gamers. These findings suggest that excessive gaming without addiction may enhance inhibitory control and influence brain activity differently from IGD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Xu
- School of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Shen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Huajia Fei
- School of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenbin Zhou
- School of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Wenya Nan
- School of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Ghafari T, Mazzetti C, Garner K, Gutteling T, Jensen O. Modulation of alpha oscillations by attention is predicted by hemispheric asymmetry of subcortical regions. eLife 2024; 12:RP91650. [PMID: 39017666 PMCID: PMC11254381 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that subcortical structures play a role in high-level cognitive functions such as the allocation of spatial attention. While there is abundant evidence in humans for posterior alpha band oscillations being modulated by spatial attention, little is known about how subcortical regions contribute to these oscillatory modulations, particularly under varying conditions of cognitive challenge. In this study, we combined MEG and structural MRI data to investigate the role of subcortical structures in controlling the allocation of attentional resources by employing a cued spatial attention paradigm with varying levels of perceptual load. We asked whether hemispheric lateralization of volumetric measures of the thalamus and basal ganglia predicted the hemispheric modulation of alpha-band power. Lateral asymmetry of the globus pallidus, caudate nucleus, and thalamus predicted attention-related modulations of posterior alpha oscillations. When the perceptual load was applied to the target and the distractor was salient caudate nucleus asymmetry predicted alpha-band modulations. Globus pallidus was predictive of alpha-band modulations when either the target had a high load, or the distractor was salient, but not both. Finally, the asymmetry of the thalamus predicted alpha band modulation when neither component of the task was perceptually demanding. In addition to delivering new insight into the subcortical circuity controlling alpha oscillations with spatial attention, our finding might also have clinical applications. We provide a framework that could be followed for detecting how structural changes in subcortical regions that are associated with neurological disorders can be reflected in the modulation of oscillatory brain activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Ghafari
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Cecilia Mazzetti
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Kelly Garner
- School of Psychology, University of New South WalesKensingtonAustralia
| | - Tjerk Gutteling
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- CERMEP-Imagerie du Vivant, MEG DepartmentLyonFrance
| | - Ole Jensen
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
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10
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Das A, Menon V. Frequency-specific directed connectivity between the hippocampus and parietal cortex during verbal and spatial episodic memory: an intracranial EEG replication. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhae287. [PMID: 39042030 PMCID: PMC11264422 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Hippocampus-parietal cortex circuits are thought to play a crucial role in memory and attention, but their neural basis remains poorly understood. We employed intracranial intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) to investigate the neurophysiological underpinning of these circuits across three memory tasks spanning verbal and spatial domains. We uncovered a consistent pattern of higher causal directed connectivity from the hippocampus to both lateral parietal cortex (supramarginal and angular gyrus) and medial parietal cortex (posterior cingulate cortex) in the delta-theta band during memory encoding and recall. This connectivity was independent of activation or suppression states in the hippocampus or parietal cortex. Crucially, directed connectivity from the supramarginal gyrus to the hippocampus was enhanced in participants with higher memory recall, highlighting its behavioral significance. Our findings align with the attention-to-memory model, which posits that attention directs cognitive resources toward pertinent information during memory formation. The robustness of these results was demonstrated through Bayesian replication analysis of the memory encoding and recall periods across the three tasks. Our study sheds light on the neural basis of casual signaling within hippocampus-parietal circuits, broadening our understanding of their critical roles in human cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup Das
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Vinod Menon
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
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11
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Ehrhardt NM, Flöel A, Li SC, Lucchese G, Antonenko D. Brain oscillatory processes related to sequence memory in healthy older adults. Neurobiol Aging 2024; 139:64-72. [PMID: 38626525 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Sequence memory is subject to age-related decline, but the underlying processes are not yet fully understood. We analyzed electroencephalography (EEG) in 21 healthy older (60-80 years) and 26 young participants (20-30 years) and compared time-frequency spectra and theta-gamma phase-amplitude-coupling (PAC) during encoding of the order of visually presented items. In older adults, desynchronization in theta (4-8 Hz) and synchronization in gamma (30-45 Hz) power did not distinguish between subsequently correctly and incorrectly remembered trials, while there was a subsequent memory effect for young adults. Theta-gamma PAC was modulated by item position within a sequence for older but not young adults. Specifically, position within a sequence was coded by higher gamma amplitude for successive theta phases for later correctly remembered trials. Thus, deficient differentiation in theta desynchronization and gamma oscillations during sequence encoding in older adults may reflect neurophysiological correlates of age-related memory decline. Furthermore, our results indicate that sequences are coded by theta-gamma PAC in older adults, but that this mechanism might lose precision in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina M Ehrhardt
- Department of Neurology, University Medicine Greifswald, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Straße, Greifswald 17475, Germany.
| | - Agnes Flöel
- Department of Neurology, University Medicine Greifswald, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Straße, Greifswald 17475, Germany; German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Standort Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Shu-Chen Li
- Chair of Lifespan Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 17, Dresden 01062, Germany; Centre for Tactile Internet with Human-in-the-Loop, TU Dresden, Dresden 01062, Germany
| | - Guglielmo Lucchese
- Department of Neurology, University Medicine Greifswald, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Straße, Greifswald 17475, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatry University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Lengstrasse 31, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Daria Antonenko
- Department of Neurology, University Medicine Greifswald, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Straße, Greifswald 17475, Germany
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12
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Satish A, Keller VG, Raza S, Fitzpatrick S, Horner AJ. Theta and alpha oscillations in human hippocampus and medial parietal cortex support the formation of location-based representations. Hippocampus 2024; 34:284-301. [PMID: 38520305 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Our ability to navigate in a new environment depends on learning new locations. Mental representations of locations are quickly accessible during navigation and allow us to know where we are regardless of our current viewpoint. Recent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research using pattern classification has shown that these location-based representations emerge in the retrosplenial cortex and parahippocampal gyrus, regions theorized to be critically involved in spatial navigation. However, little is currently known about the oscillatory dynamics that support the formation of location-based representations. We used magnetoencephalogram (MEG) recordings to investigate region-specific oscillatory activity in a task where participants could form location-based representations. Participants viewed videos showing that two perceptually distinct scenes (180° apart) belonged to the same location. This "overlap" video allowed participants to bind the two distinct scenes together into a more coherent location-based representation. Participants also viewed control "non-overlap" videos where two distinct scenes from two different locations were shown, where no location-based representation could be formed. In a post-video behavioral task, participants successfully matched the two viewpoints shown in the overlap videos, but not the non-overlap videos, indicating they successfully learned the locations in the overlap condition. Comparing oscillatory activity between the overlap and non-overlap videos, we found greater theta and alpha/beta power during the overlap relative to non-overlap videos, specifically at time-points when we expected scene integration to occur. These oscillations localized to regions in the medial parietal cortex (precuneus and retrosplenial cortex) and the medial temporal lobe, including the hippocampus. Therefore, we find that theta and alpha/beta oscillations in the hippocampus and medial parietal cortex are likely involved in the formation of location-based representations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akul Satish
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, UK
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Sumaiyah Raza
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, UK
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Aidan J Horner
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, UK
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, UK
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13
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Jensen O. Distractor inhibition by alpha oscillations is controlled by an indirect mechanism governed by goal-relevant information. COMMUNICATIONS PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 2:36. [PMID: 38665356 PMCID: PMC11041682 DOI: 10.1038/s44271-024-00081-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The role of alpha oscillations (8-13 Hz) in cognition is intensively investigated. While intracranial animal recordings demonstrate that alpha oscillations are associated with decreased neuronal excitability, it is been questioned whether alpha oscillations are under direct control from frontoparietal areas to suppress visual distractors. We here point to a revised mechanism in which alpha oscillations are controlled by an indirect mechanism governed by the load of goal-relevant information - a view compatible with perceptual load theory. We will outline how this framework can be further tested and discuss the consequences for network dynamics and resource allocation in the working brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Jensen
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B152TT UK
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14
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Steina A, Sure S, Butz M, Vesper J, Schnitzler A, Hirschmann J. Mapping Subcortico-Cortical Coupling-A Comparison of Thalamic and Subthalamic Oscillations. Mov Disord 2024; 39:684-693. [PMID: 38380765 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus (VIM) is an effective target for deep brain stimulation in tremor patients. Despite its therapeutic importance, its oscillatory coupling to cortical areas has rarely been investigated in humans. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to identify the cortical areas coupled to the VIM in patients with essential tremor. METHODS We combined resting-state magnetoencephalography with local field potential recordings from the VIM of 19 essential tremor patients. Whole-brain maps of VIM-cortex coherence in several frequency bands were constructed using beamforming and compared with corresponding maps of subthalamic nucleus (STN) coherence based on data from 19 patients with Parkinson's disease. In addition, we computed spectral Granger causality. RESULTS The topographies of VIM-cortex and STN-cortex coherence were very similar overall but differed quantitatively. Both nuclei were coupled to the ipsilateral sensorimotor cortex in the high-beta band; to the sensorimotor cortex, brainstem, and cerebellum in the low-beta band; and to the temporal cortex, brainstem, and cerebellum in the alpha band. High-beta coherence to sensorimotor cortex was stronger for the STN (P = 0.014), whereas low-beta coherence to the brainstem was stronger for the VIM (P = 0.017). Although the STN was driven by cortical activity in the high-beta band, the VIM led the sensorimotor cortex in the alpha band. CONCLUSIONS Thalamo-cortical coupling is spatially and spectrally organized. The overall similar topographies of VIM-cortex and STN-cortex coherence suggest that functional connections are not necessarily unique to one subcortical structure but might reflect larger frequency-specific networks involving VIM and STN to a different degree. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Steina
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sarah Sure
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Markus Butz
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan Vesper
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery and Stereotaxy, Neurosurgical Clinic, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alfons Schnitzler
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan Hirschmann
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
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15
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Kim K, Nokia MS, Palva S. Distinct Hippocampal Oscillation Dynamics in Trace Eyeblink Conditioning Task for Retrieval and Consolidation of Associations. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0030-23.2024. [PMID: 38627063 PMCID: PMC11046259 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0030-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Trace eyeblink conditioning (TEBC) has been widely used to study associative learning in both animals and humans. In this paradigm, conditioned responses (CRs) to conditioned stimuli (CS) serve as a measure for retrieving learned associations between the CS and the unconditioned stimuli (US) within a trial. Memory consolidation, that is, learning over time, can be quantified as an increase in the proportion of CRs across training sessions. However, how hippocampal oscillations differentiate between successful memory retrieval within a session and consolidation across TEBC training sessions remains unknown. To address this question, we recorded local field potentials (LFPs) from the rat dorsal hippocampus during TEBC and investigated hippocampal oscillation dynamics associated with these two functions. We show that transient broadband responses to the CS were correlated with memory consolidation, as indexed by an increase in CRs across TEBC sessions. In contrast, induced alpha (8-10 Hz) and beta (16-20 Hz) band responses were correlated with the successful retrieval of the CS-US association within a session, as indexed by the difference in trials with and without CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayeon Kim
- Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki FI-00014, Finland
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Miriam S Nokia
- Department of Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä FI-40014, Finland
| | - Satu Palva
- Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki FI-00014, Finland
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland
- Division of psychology, VISE, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Ostrobothnia FI-90014, Finland
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16
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Köster M. The theta-gamma code in predictive processing and mnemonic updating. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 158:105529. [PMID: 38176633 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Predictive processing has become a leading theory about how the brain works. Yet, it remains an open question how predictive processes are realized in the brain. Here I discuss theta-gamma coupling as one potential neural mechanism for prediction and model updating. Building on Lisman and colleagues SOCRATIC model, theta-gamma coupling has been associated with phase precession and learning phenomena in medio-temporal lobe of rodents, where it completes and retains a sequence of places or items (i.e., predictive models). These sequences may be updated upon prediction errors (i.e., model updating), signaled by dopaminergic inputs from prefrontal networks. This framework, spanning the molecular to the network level, matches excitingly well with recent findings on predictive processing, mnemonic updating, and perceptual foraging for the theta-gamma code in human cognition. In sum, I use the case of theta-gamma coupling to link the predictive processing account, a very general concept of how the brain works, to specific neural processes which may implement predictive processing and model updating at the cognitive, network, cellular and molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Köster
- University of Regensburg, Institute of Psychology, Sedanstraße 1, 93055 Regensburg, Germany.
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17
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Noguchi Y. Harmonic memory signals in the human cerebral cortex induced by semantic relatedness of words. NPJ SCIENCE OF LEARNING 2024; 9:6. [PMID: 38355685 PMCID: PMC10866900 DOI: 10.1038/s41539-024-00221-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
When we memorize multiple words simultaneously, semantic relatedness among those words assists memory. For example, the information about "apple", "banana," and "orange" will be connected via a common concept of "fruits" and become easy to retain and recall. Neural mechanisms underlying this semantic integration in verbal working memory remain unclear. Here I used electroencephalography (EEG) and investigated neural signals when healthy human participants memorized five nouns semantically related (Sem trial) or not (NonSem trial). The regularity of oscillatory signals (8-30 Hz) during the retention period was found to be lower in NonSem than Sem trials, indicating that memorizing words unrelated to each other induced a non-harmonic (irregular) waveform in the temporal cortex. These results suggest that (i) semantic features of a word are retained as a set of neural oscillations at specific frequencies and (ii) memorizing words sharing a common semantic feature produces harmonic brain responses through a resonance or integration (sharing) of the oscillatory signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuki Noguchi
- Department of Psychology, Graduate School of Humanities, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai-cho, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.
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18
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Kazmierska-Grebowska P, Jankowski MM, MacIver MB. Missing Puzzle Pieces in Dementia Research: HCN Channels and Theta Oscillations. Aging Dis 2024; 15:22-42. [PMID: 37450922 PMCID: PMC10796085 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates a role of hyperpolarization activated cation (HCN) channels in controlling the resting membrane potential, pacemaker activity, memory formation, sleep, and arousal. Their disfunction may be associated with the development of epilepsy and age-related memory decline. Neuronal hyperexcitability involved in epileptogenesis and EEG desynchronization occur in the course of dementia in human Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and animal models, nevertheless the underlying ionic and cellular mechanisms of these effects are not well understood. Some suggest that theta rhythms involved in memory formation could be used as a marker of memory disturbances in the course of neurogenerative diseases, including AD. This review focusses on the interplay between hyperpolarization HCN channels, theta oscillations, memory formation and their role(s) in dementias, including AD. While individually, each of these factors have been linked to each other with strong supportive evidence, we hope here to expand this linkage to a more inclusive picture. Thus, HCN channels could provide a molecular target for developing new therapeutic agents for preventing and/or treating dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maciej M. Jankowski
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
- BioTechMed Center, Multimedia Systems Department, Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications, and Informatics, Gdansk University of Technology, Gdansk, Poland.Telecommunications and Informatics, Gdansk University of Technology, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - M. Bruce MacIver
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of of Medicine, Stanford University, CA, USA.
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19
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Ezzyat Y, Kragel JE, Solomon EA, Lega BC, Aronson JP, Jobst BC, Gross RE, Sperling MR, Worrell GA, Sheth SA, Wanda PA, Rizzuto DS, Kahana MJ. Functional and anatomical connectivity predict brain stimulation's mnemonic effects. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad427. [PMID: 38041253 PMCID: PMC10793570 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Closed-loop direct brain stimulation is a promising tool for modulating neural activity and behavior. However, it remains unclear how to optimally target stimulation to modulate brain activity in particular brain networks that underlie particular cognitive functions. Here, we test the hypothesis that stimulation's behavioral and physiological effects depend on the stimulation target's anatomical and functional network properties. We delivered closed-loop stimulation as 47 neurosurgical patients studied and recalled word lists. Multivariate classifiers, trained to predict momentary lapses in memory function, triggered the stimulation of the lateral temporal cortex (LTC) during the study phase of the task. We found that LTC stimulation specifically improved memory when delivered to targets near white matter pathways. Memory improvement was largest for targets near white matter that also showed high functional connectivity to the brain's memory network. These targets also reduced low-frequency activity in this network, an established marker of successful memory encoding. These data reveal how anatomical and functional networks mediate stimulation's behavioral and physiological effects, provide further evidence that closed-loop LTC stimulation can improve episodic memory, and suggest a method for optimizing neuromodulation through improved stimulation targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Ezzyat
- Dept. of Psychology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA
| | - James E Kragel
- Dept. of Neurology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ethan A Solomon
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Bradley C Lega
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Joshua P Aronson
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Barbara C Jobst
- Dept. of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Robert E Gross
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Michael R Sperling
- Dept. of Neurology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | | | - Sameer A Sheth
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Paul A Wanda
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel S Rizzuto
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael J Kahana
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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20
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Ladenbauer J, Khakimova L, Malinowski R, Obst D, Tönnies E, Antonenko D, Obermayer K, Hanna J, Flöel A. Towards Optimization of Oscillatory Stimulation During Sleep. Neuromodulation 2023; 26:1592-1601. [PMID: 35981956 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oscillatory rhythms during sleep, such as slow oscillations (SOs) and spindles and, most importantly, their coupling, are thought to underlie processes of memory consolidation. External slow oscillatory transcranial direct current stimulation (so-tDCS) with a frequency of 0.75 Hz has been shown to improve this coupling and memory consolidation; however, effects varied quite markedly between individuals, studies, and species. In this study, we aimed to determine how precisely the frequency of stimulation must match the naturally occurring SO frequency in individuals to best improve SO-spindle coupling. Moreover, we systematically tested stimulation durations necessary to induce changes. MATERIALS AND METHODS We addressed these questions by comparing so-tDCS with individualized frequency to standardized frequency of 0.75 Hz in a within-subject design with 28 older participants during napping while stimulation train durations were systematically varied between 30 seconds, 2 minutes, and 5 minutes. RESULTS Stimulation trains as short as 30 seconds were sufficient to modulate the coupling between SOs and spindle activity. Contrary to our expectations, so-tDCS with standardized frequency indicated stronger aftereffects regarding SO-spindle coupling than individualized frequency. Angle and variance of spindle maxima occurrence during the SO cycle were similarly modulated. CONCLUSIONS In sum, short stimulation trains were sufficient to induce significant changes in sleep physiology, allowing for more trains of stimulation, which provides methodological advantages and possibly even larger behavioral effects in future studies. Regarding individualized stimulation frequency, further options of optimization need to be investigated, such as closed-loop stimulation, to calibrate stimulation frequency to the SO frequency at the time of stimulation onset. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION The Clinicaltrials.gov registration number for the study is NCT04714879.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ladenbauer
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Liliia Khakimova
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Robert Malinowski
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Daniela Obst
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Eric Tönnies
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Daria Antonenko
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Klaus Obermayer
- Fakultät IV and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jeff Hanna
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Agnes Flöel
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
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21
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Eqlimi E, Bockstael A, Schönwiesner M, Talsma D, Botteldooren D. Time course of EEG complexity reflects attentional engagement during listening to speech in noise. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 58:4043-4069. [PMID: 37814423 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Auditory distractions are recognized to considerably challenge the quality of information encoding during speech comprehension. This study explores electroencephalography (EEG) microstate dynamics in ecologically valid, noisy settings, aiming to uncover how these auditory distractions influence the process of information encoding during speech comprehension. We examined three listening scenarios: (1) speech perception with background noise (LA), (2) focused attention on the background noise (BA), and (3) intentional disregard of the background noise (BUA). Our findings showed that microstate complexity and unpredictability increased when attention was directed towards speech compared with tasks without speech (LA > BA & BUA). Notably, the time elapsed between the recurrence of microstates increased significantly in LA compared with both BA and BUA. This suggests that coping with background noise during speech comprehension demands more sustained cognitive effort. Additionally, a two-stage time course for both microstate complexity and alpha-to-theta power ratio was observed. Specifically, in the early epochs, a lower level was observed, which gradually increased and eventually reached a steady level in the later epochs. The findings suggest that the initial stage is primarily driven by sensory processes and information gathering, while the second stage involves higher level cognitive engagement, including mnemonic binding and memory encoding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Eqlimi
- WAVES Research Group, Department of Information Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelies Bockstael
- WAVES Research Group, Department of Information Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Durk Talsma
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dick Botteldooren
- WAVES Research Group, Department of Information Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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22
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Wynn SC, Townsend CD, Nyhus E. The role of theta and gamma oscillations in item memory, source memory, and memory confidence. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.18.562880. [PMID: 37905099 PMCID: PMC10614855 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.18.562880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Theta and gamma oscillations have been linked to episodic memory processes in various studies. Both oscillations seem to be vital for processes guided by the medial temporal lobe, such as the retrieval of information from memory. While theta oscillations increase with successful memory, it is unclear what the unique contribution of theta is to various subcomponents of memory. On the other hand, memory-related gamma oscillations have been mainly reported in the hippocampus, leaving the role of neocortical gamma in memory underexplored. In the current study, we explored how unique variability in memory accuracy and memory confidence contributes to fluctuations in theta and gamma power. To this end, we recorded EEG from 54 participants while they performed a source memory task. From this task we obtained their item memory accuracy, source memory accuracy, item memory confidence, and source memory confidence. These behavioral measures were put in a trial-by-trial linear mixed effects model to uncover their unique contribution to the oscillatory power in frontal and parietal regions. Our results are in line with the involvement of theta oscillations in both memory accuracy and confidence, but seem to indicate a main role for theta oscillations in memory-related confidence. In addition, we found that gamma oscillations play various roles in memory-processing, dependent of brain region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syanah C Wynn
- Neuroimaging Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME, United States
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christopher D Townsend
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Erika Nyhus
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME, United States
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23
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Griffiths BJ, Jensen O. Gamma oscillations and episodic memory. Trends Neurosci 2023; 46:832-846. [PMID: 37550159 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Enhanced gamma oscillatory activity (30-80 Hz) accompanies the successful formation and retrieval of episodic memories. While this co-occurrence is well documented, the mechanistic contributions of gamma oscillatory activity to episodic memory remain unclear. Here, we review how gamma oscillatory activity may facilitate spike timing-dependent plasticity, neural communication, and sequence encoding/retrieval, thereby ensuring the successful formation and/or retrieval of an episodic memory. Based on the evidence reviewed, we propose that multiple, distinct forms of gamma oscillation can be found within the canonical gamma band, each of which has a complementary role in the neural processes listed above. Further exploration of these theories using causal manipulations may be key to elucidating the relevance of gamma oscillatory activity to episodic memory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ole Jensen
- Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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24
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Ezzyat Y, Kragel JE, Solomon EA, Lega BC, Aronson JP, Jobst BC, Gross RE, Sperling MR, Worrell GA, Sheth SA, Wanda PA, Rizzuto DS, Kahana MJ. Functional and anatomical connectivity predict brain stimulation's mnemonic effects. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.27.550851. [PMID: 37609181 PMCID: PMC10441352 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.27.550851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Closed-loop direct brain stimulation is a promising tool for modulating neural activity and behavior. However, it remains unclear how to optimally target stimulation to modulate brain activity in particular brain networks that underlie particular cognitive functions. Here, we test the hypothesis that stimulation's behavioral and physiological effects depend on the stimulation target's anatomical and functional network properties. We delivered closed-loop stimulation as 47 neurosurgical patients studied and recalled word lists. Multivariate classifiers, trained to predict momentary lapses in memory function, triggered stimulation of the lateral temporal cortex (LTC) during the study phase of the task. We found that LTC stimulation specifically improved memory when delivered to targets near white matter pathways. Memory improvement was largest for targets near white matter that also showed high functional connectivity to the brain's memory network. These targets also reduced low-frequency activity in this network, an established marker of successful memory encoding. These data reveal how anatomical and functional networks mediate stimulation's behavioral and physiological effects, provide further evidence that closed-loop LTC stimulation can improve episodic memory, and suggest a method for optimizing neuromodulation through improved stimulation targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Ezzyat
- Dept. of Psychology, Wesleyan University, Middletown CT 06459
| | | | - Ethan A. Solomon
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Bradley C. Lega
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas TX 75390
| | - Joshua P. Aronson
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon NH 03756
| | - Barbara C. Jobst
- Dept. of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon NH 03756
| | - Robert E. Gross
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta GA 30322
| | - Michael R. Sperling
- Dept. of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia PA 19107
| | | | - Sameer A. Sheth
- Dept. of Neurosurgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Paul A. Wanda
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Daniel S. Rizzuto
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104
| | - Michael J. Kahana
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA 19104
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25
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Popov T, Staudigl T. Cortico-ocular Coupling in the Service of Episodic Memory Formation. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 227:102476. [PMID: 37268034 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Encoding of visual information is a necessary requirement for most types of episodic memories. In search for a neural signature of memory formation, amplitude modulation of neural activity has been repeatedly shown to correlate with and suggested to be functionally involved in successful memory encoding. We here report a complementary view on why and how brain activity relates to memory, indicating a functional role of cortico-ocular interactions for episodic memory formation. Recording simultaneous magnetoencephalography and eye tracking in 35 human participants, we demonstrate that gaze variability and amplitude modulations of alpha/beta oscillations (10-20Hz) in visual cortex covary and predict subsequent memory performance between and within participants. Amplitude variation during pre-stimulus baseline was associated with gaze direction variability, echoing the co-variation observed during scene encoding. We conclude that encoding of visual information engages unison coupling between oculomotor and visual areas in the service of memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzvetan Popov
- Methods of Plasticity Research, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Tobias Staudigl
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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26
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Branzi FM, Martin CD, Biau E. Activating words without language: beta and theta oscillations reflect lexical access and control processes during verbal and non-verbal object recognition tasks. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:6228-6240. [PMID: 36724048 PMCID: PMC10183750 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The intention to name an object modulates neural responses during object recognition tasks. However, the nature of this modulation is still unclear. We established whether a core operation in language, i.e. lexical access, can be observed even when the task does not require language (size-judgment task), and whether response selection in verbal versus non-verbal semantic tasks relies on similar neuronal processes. We measured and compared neuronal oscillatory activities and behavioral responses to the same set of pictures of meaningful objects, while the type of task participants had to perform (picture-naming versus size-judgment) and the type of stimuli to measure lexical access (cognate versus non-cognate) were manipulated. Despite activation of words was facilitated when the task required explicit word-retrieval (picture-naming task), lexical access occurred even without the intention to name the object (non-verbal size-judgment task). Activation of words and response selection were accompanied by beta (25-35 Hz) desynchronization and theta (3-7 Hz) synchronization, respectively. These effects were observed in both picture-naming and size-judgment tasks, suggesting that words became activated via similar mechanisms, irrespective of whether the task involves language explicitly. This finding has important implications to understand the link between core linguistic operations and performance in verbal and non-verbal semantic tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca M Branzi
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Clara D Martin
- BCBL. Basque Center on Cognition, Brain and Language, Paseo Mikeletegi 69, San Sebastian 20009, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Maria Diaz de Haro 3, Bilbao 48013, Spain
| | - Emmanuel Biau
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK
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27
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Guttesen AÁV, Gaskell MG, Madden EV, Appleby G, Cross ZR, Cairney SA. Sleep loss disrupts the neural signature of successful learning. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:1610-1625. [PMID: 35470400 PMCID: PMC9977378 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep supports memory consolidation as well as next-day learning. The influential "Active Systems" account of offline consolidation suggests that sleep-associated memory processing paves the way for new learning, but empirical evidence in support of this idea is scarce. Using a within-subjects (n = 30), crossover design, we assessed behavioral and electrophysiological indices of episodic encoding after a night of sleep or total sleep deprivation in healthy adults (aged 18-25 years) and investigated whether behavioral performance was predicted by the overnight consolidation of episodic associations from the previous day. Sleep supported memory consolidation and next-day learning as compared to sleep deprivation. However, the magnitude of this sleep-associated consolidation benefit did not significantly predict the ability to form novel memories after sleep. Interestingly, sleep deprivation prompted a qualitative change in the neural signature of encoding: Whereas 12-20 Hz beta desynchronization-an established marker of successful encoding-was observed after sleep, sleep deprivation disrupted beta desynchrony during successful learning. Taken together, these findings suggest that effective learning depends on sleep but not necessarily on sleep-associated consolidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna á V Guttesen
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - M Gareth Gaskell
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Emily V Madden
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Gabrielle Appleby
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Zachariah R Cross
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South Australia 5095, Australia
| | - Scott A Cairney
- Department of Psychology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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28
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Kerrén C, van Bree S, Griffiths BJ, Wimber M. Phase separation of competing memories along the human hippocampal theta rhythm. eLife 2022; 11:e80633. [PMID: 36394367 PMCID: PMC9671495 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Competition between overlapping memories is considered one of the major causes of forgetting, and it is still unknown how the human brain resolves such mnemonic conflict. In the present magnetoencephalography (MEG) study, we empirically tested a computational model that leverages an oscillating inhibition algorithm to minimise overlap between memories. We used a proactive interference task, where a reminder word could be associated with either a single image (non-competitive condition) or two competing images, and participants were asked to always recall the most recently learned word-image association. Time-resolved pattern classifiers were trained to detect the reactivated content of target and competitor memories from MEG sensor patterns, and the timing of these neural reactivations was analysed relative to the phase of the dominant hippocampal 3 Hz theta oscillation. In line with our pre-registered hypotheses, target and competitor reactivations locked to different phases of the hippocampal theta rhythm after several repeated recalls. Participants who behaviourally experienced lower levels of interference also showed larger phase separation between the two overlapping memories. The findings provide evidence that the temporal segregation of memories, orchestrated by slow oscillations, plays a functional role in resolving mnemonic competition by separating and prioritising relevant memories under conditions of high interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper Kerrén
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- Research Group Adaptive Memory and Decision Making, Max Planck Institute for Human DevelopmentBerlinGermany
| | - Sander van Bree
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, School of Neuroscience and Psychology, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Benjamin J Griffiths
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Maria Wimber
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, School of Neuroscience and Psychology, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
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29
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Köster M, Gruber T. Rhythms of human attention and memory: An embedded process perspective. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:905837. [PMID: 36277046 PMCID: PMC9579292 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.905837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It remains a dogma in cognitive neuroscience to separate human attention and memory into distinct modules and processes. Here we propose that brain rhythms reflect the embedded nature of these processes in the human brain, as evident from their shared neural signatures: gamma oscillations (30-90 Hz) reflect sensory information processing and activated neural representations (memory items). The theta rhythm (3-8 Hz) is a pacemaker of explicit control processes (central executive), structuring neural information processing, bit by bit, as reflected in the theta-gamma code. By representing memory items in a sequential and time-compressed manner the theta-gamma code is hypothesized to solve key problems of neural computation: (1) attentional sampling (integrating and segregating information processing), (2) mnemonic updating (implementing Hebbian learning), and (3) predictive coding (advancing information processing ahead of the real time to guide behavior). In this framework, reduced alpha oscillations (8-14 Hz) reflect activated semantic networks, involved in both explicit and implicit mnemonic processes. Linking recent theoretical accounts and empirical insights on neural rhythms to the embedded-process model advances our understanding of the integrated nature of attention and memory - as the bedrock of human cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Köster
- Faculty of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Psychology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Gruber
- Institute of Psychology, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
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30
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IL-17A drives cognitive aging probably via inducing neuroinflammation and theta oscillation disruption in the hippocampus. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 108:108898. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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31
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Roux F, Parish G, Chelvarajah R, Rollings DT, Sawlani V, Hamer H, Gollwitzer S, Kreiselmeyer G, ter Wal MJ, Kolibius L, Staresina BP, Wimber M, Self MW, Hanslmayr S. Oscillations support short latency co-firing of neurons during human episodic memory formation. eLife 2022; 11:78109. [PMID: 36448671 PMCID: PMC9731574 DOI: 10.7554/elife.78109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Theta and gamma oscillations in the medial temporal lobe are suggested to play a critical role for human memory formation via establishing synchrony in neural assemblies. Arguably, such synchrony facilitates efficient information transfer between neurons and enhances synaptic plasticity, both of which benefit episodic memory formation. However, to date little evidence exists from humans that would provide direct evidence for such a specific role of theta and gamma oscillations for episodic memory formation. Here, we investigate how oscillations shape the temporal structure of neural firing during memory formation in the medial temporal lobe. We measured neural firing and local field potentials in human epilepsy patients via micro-wire electrode recordings to analyze whether brain oscillations are related to co-incidences of firing between neurons during successful and unsuccessful encoding of episodic memories. The results show that phase-coupling of neurons to faster theta and gamma oscillations correlates with co-firing at short latencies (~20-30 ms) and occurs during successful memory formation. Phase-coupling at slower oscillations in these same frequency bands, in contrast, correlates with longer co-firing latencies and occurs during memory failure. Thus, our findings suggest that neural oscillations play a role for the synchronization of neural firing in the medial temporal lobe during the encoding of episodic memories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Roux
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - George Parish
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Ramesh Chelvarajah
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom,Complex Epilepsy and Surgery Service, Neuroscience Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - David T Rollings
- Complex Epilepsy and Surgery Service, Neuroscience Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Vijay Sawlani
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom,Complex Epilepsy and Surgery Service, Neuroscience Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Hajo Hamer
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Stephanie Gollwitzer
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Gernot Kreiselmeyer
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Marije J ter Wal
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Luca Kolibius
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Bernhard P Staresina
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom,Department of Experimental Psychology, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Maria Wimber
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom,School of Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Matthew W Self
- Department of Vision and Cognition, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Art and SciencesAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Simon Hanslmayr
- School of Psychology, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom,School of Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
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