A new technique for the analysis of background and evoked EEG activity: Time and amplitude distributions of the EEG deflections

V. Rodionov, C. Goodman, L. Fisher, G. Z. Rosenstein, H. Sohmer*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives: The EEG during background activity and that evoked in response to sensory stimuli (evoked potential, EP) has traditionally been studied by averaging and by frequency analysis. These obscure trial to trial variability. A new analysis technique is presented here which leads to single trial analysis and to insight into the mechanisms of EP generation. Methods: This technique is based on the identification of the EEG deflections recorded on the scalp before (background) and immediately after visual stimuli. A statistical description of the time and amplitude distributions of these deflections is defined and leads to the differentiation between background and evoked activity. Results: In response to stimuli, the time and amplitude of ongoing deflections (background) are re-organized (time locking) and amplified, generating the EP. Not all stimulus trials are accompanied by an appropriate response. Separate analysis of those single trials that do contain a response deflection provides information on the exact timing, variability, amplitude, etc., of those EEG deflections which contribute to the EP. Conclusions: New EEG analysis techniques are described which provide single trial EP analysis and insight into mechanisms of EP generation.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1412-1422
Number of pages11
JournalClinical Neurophysiology
Volume113
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002

Keywords

  • Amplification
  • Electroencephalography
  • Evoked potential
  • Single trial
  • Time locking
  • Visual

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