`Paradoxical' alpha synchronization in a memory task

摘要: The results of a specially designed memory search paradigm which maximizes episodic short-term (STM) and minimizes semantic long-term (LTM) demands show that the upper alpha band synchronizes selectively in those conditions time intervals where STM are maximal. This finding selective synchronization occurring only during highest task is surprising because it well known usually desynchronizes mental activity. Because experiments from our laboratory indicate desynchronization related to LTM processes, present suggests this frequency reflects inhibition LTM. It assumed once capacity limits reached or exceeded, processing resources no longer distributed potentially interfering, irrelevant, brain areas systems inhibited.