Pre-stimulus beta oscillations within left posterior sylvian regions impact auditory temporal order judgment accuracy

Both neural and behavioral responses to stimuli are influenced by the state of the brain immediately preceding their presentation, notably by pre-stimulus oscillatory activity. Using frequency analysis of high-density electroencephalogram coupled with source estimations, the present study investigated the role of pre-stimulus oscillatory activity in auditory spatial temporal order judgments (TOJ). Oscillations within the beta range (i.e. 18–23 Hz) were significantly stronger before accurate than inaccurate TOJ trials. Distributed source estimations identified bilateral posterior sylvian regions as the principal contributors to pre-stimulus beta oscillations. Activity within the left posterior sylvian region was significantly stronger before accurate than inaccurate TOJ trials. We discuss our results in terms of a modulation of sensory gating mechanisms mediated by beta activity.

Research Highlights
► Pre-stimulus beta oscillations impact auditory temporal order judgment (aTOJ) accuracy.
► Increased beta power within the left posterior sylvian region precedes accurate aTOJ.
► Beta activity might improve aTOJ mediated by modulation of sensory gating mechanisms.