Middle latency response correlates of single and double deviant stimuli in a multi-feature paradigm

•Double deviance-related middle latency response (MLR) modulations recorded with the time-saving optimum-2 multi-feature paradigm.•MLR enhancements elicited by frequency-intensity double deviants equal the sum of the amplitude differences elicited by frequency and intensity single deviants.•Double deviant mismatch negativity (MMN) is unaffected by multiple deviant types, but P3a gets smaller.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to test single and double deviance-related modulations of the middle latency response (MLR) and the applicability of the optimum-2 multi-feature paradigm.MethodsThe MLR and the MMN to frequency, intensity and double-feature deviants of an optimum-2 multi-feature paradigm and the MMN to double-feature deviants of an oddball paradigm were recorded in young adults.ResultsDouble deviants elicited significant enhancements of the Nb and Pb MLR waves compared with the waves elicited by standard stimuli. These enhancements equalled approximately the sum of the numerical amplitude differences elicited by the single deviants. In contrast, the MMN to double deviants did not show such additivity. MMNs elicited by double deviants of the multi-feature and the oddball paradigm showed no significant difference in amplitude or latency.ConclusionsThe optimum-2 multi-feature paradigm is suitable for recording double deviance-related modulations of the MLR. Interspersed intensity and frequency deviants in the standard trace of the optimum-2 condition multi-feature paradigm did not weaken the double MMN.SignificanceThe optimum-2 multi-feature paradigm could be especially beneficial for clinical studies on early deviance-related modulations in the MLR, due to its optimized utilization of the recording time.