Functional connectivity analysis using the oddball auditory paradigm for attention tasks

Abstract

Nowadays, cognitive stimulus processing using Electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings is accomplished by analyzing individually the time-frequency information belonging to each EEG channel. Nevertheless, several studies have characterized cognitive functions as synchronized brain networks depending on the underlying neural interactions. As a result, connectivity analysis provides essential information for improving both the interpretation and interpretability of brain functionality under specific tasks. In this research, we perform functional connectivity analysis by measuring the stability of the phase difference between EEG channels, aiming to include synchronization patterns for studying the brain reaction to cognitive stimulus. Experiments are carried out in subjects responding to an oddball paradigm. Results show statistical differences between target and non-target labels, making the proposed methodology a suitable alternative to support cognitive neurophysiological applications.