Gamma flicker triggers attentional selection without awareness.
basic_science · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 19124766.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1073/pnas.0810496106 and PMC identifier 2635817.
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Abstract
Gamma band modulations in neural activity have been proposed to mediate attentional processes. To support a causal link between gamma activity and attentional selection, we attempt to evoke gamma oscillations by a 50-Hz subliminal flicker. We find that a subliminal 50-Hz flicker at a target location, before target presentation, speeds up and enhances target detection and discrimination. This effect is specific to the middle of the gamma range because it is not evident at <35-Hz flicker. It requires 300 ms to build up, dissipates within 250 ms of flicker offset, and shows a tendency to invert after 500 ms. The results are discussed in relation to a role for gamma band neural synchrony in the allocation of visual attention.
Medical subject headings
- Awareness
- Flicker Fusion