Oscillatory dynamics of sustained attention states

Solís-Vivanco, Rodolfo; Barne, Louise; Harris, Anthony; Liu, Xin; Lavie, Nilli · 2024 · Crossref

DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.25.614991

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Summary

This study investigates the neural oscillatory dynamics underlying fluctuations in sustained attention, specifically distinguishing between periods of effective focus (“in-the-zone”) and periods of reduced attentional control (“out-of-the-zone”). While previous research has identified these states behaviorally and via fMRI, the specific EEG oscillatory correlates—particularly regarding theta, alpha, and beta bands—remain unclear. The authors aimed to determine whether distinct oscillatory patterns characterize these states and whether individual differences in oscillatory power and variability predict behavioral performance metrics such as response time variability and error rates. Thirty young adults performed the gradual onset continuous performance task (gradCPT), a paradigm designed to minimize bottom-up attentional capture by using smooth transitions between stimuli. Electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded throughout the task. Attentional states were defined using a variance time course analysis of reaction times: trials with reaction times within one standard deviation of the mean were classified as “in-the-zone,” while those exceeding this threshold were “out-of-the-zone.” EEG data were analyzed using time-frequency representations to assess power and inter-trial phase clustering (ITPC) in theta (3–7 Hz), alpha (8–14 Hz), and beta (15–40 Hz) bands. Source localization was performed using dynamic imaging of coherent sources (DICS) beamforming to identify cortical generators. Statistical analyses included cluster-based nonparametric randomization tests for EEG comparisons and correlation analyses to link neural markers with behavioral outcomes. The results demonstrated that “out-of-the-zone” states were associated with increased commission errors and reduced perceptual sensitivity compared to “in-the-zone” states. Crucially, a significant decline in theta oscillation power at mid-prefrontal regions was observed during “out-of-the-zone” states, particularly over a ~400 ms window around the stimulus transition point. The magnitude of this theta power decline predicted higher commission error rates and response bias. Furthermore, individual differences in the variability of midfrontal theta power across the task correlated with reaction time variability. Participants exhibiting greater theta variability showed more pronounced declines in perceptual sensitivity during “out-of-the-zone” states and less stable reaction times than those with lower variability. No significant effects were found for alpha or beta power in distinguishing these states. These findings suggest that diminished sustained attention, even during brief lapses, is neurophysiologically characterized by a reduction in midfrontal theta activity. The study establishes that fluctuations in theta power covary with fluctuations in attentional control, providing a specific neural marker for the dynamic nature of sustained attention. This implies that midfrontal theta oscillations play a critical role in maintaining cognitive control during sustained tasks, and their instability may underlie individual differences in attentional performance and susceptibility to errors.

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• neuro workload indices
• sustained attention vigilance

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• Empirical Findings: physiological data