Task-guided attention increases non-linearity of steady-state visually evoked potentials.

Abstract

Attention is a multifaceted cognitive process, with nonlinear dynamics playing a crucial role. In this study, we investigated the involvement of nonlinear processes in top-down visual attention by employing a contrast-modulated sequence of letters and numerals, encircled by a consistently flickering white square on a black background - a setup that generated steady-state visually evoked potentials. Nonlinear processes are recognized for eliciting and modulating the harmonics of constant frequencies. We examined the fundamental and harmonic frequencies of each stimulus to evaluate the underlying nonlinear dynamics during stimulus processing. In line with prior research, our findings indicate that the power spectrum density of EEG responses is influenced by both task presence and stimulus contrast. By utilizing the Rhythmic Entrainment Source Separation (RESS) technique, we discovered that actively searching for a target within a letter stream heightened the amplitude of the fundamental frequency and harmonics related to the background flickering stimulus. While the fundamental frequency amplitude remained unaffected by stimulus contrast, a lower contrast led to an increase in the second harmonic's amplitude. We assessed the relationship between the contrast response function and the nonlinear-based harmonic responses. Our findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the nonlinear processes impacting top-down visual attention while also providing insights into optimizing brain-computer interfaces.&#xD.