We are interested in how ongoing EEG rhythms are influenced by
attentional processing, as well as how these variables interact to
affect sensory processes. In a recent paper (Mathewson et al., 2009) we find, in addition to
increased alpha power associated with poorer sensory processing, that
the phase of these ongoing rhythms represent oscillations in the
excitability of the cortex that directly influence visual awareness.
Visual targets that are presented in the trough of an ongoing alpha
wave elicit diminished and delayed cortical activity and become less
likely to reach visual awareness. To read the full article click here
