<p>We identify a previously unreported phenomenon where certain individuals show spontaneous increases in parietal–occipital upper alpha power before and after their first exposure to a mental rotation task. This enhancement likely reflects efficient cortical inhibition and selective neural tuning within visuospatial networks—mechanisms comparable to those engaged during neurofeedback-based cognitive training. Previous studies show that alpha oscillations, associated with attention, working memory, and mental rotation, can be consistently enhanced using neurofeedback. In our recent research, we found that the neurofeedback group significantly increased upper alpha amplitude and improved mental rotation speed compared to a control group. Surprisingly, some individuals in the control group exhibited increased upper alpha intensity both before and during the mental rotation task, without external conditioning. To examine this phenomenon, we conducted a follow-up study with 45 participants. First, we recorded their EEG activity, then they completed a mental rotation task. After finishing the task, participants rested for about 30&#xa0;min, followed by another EEG recording before they undertook the mental rotation task again. The aim was to focus on the phenomenon where individuals exhibit spontaneous and task-related upper alpha power increases, and to examine whether their mental rotation performance differs from that of individuals without natural alpha elevation. Findings from this study are the first to show that both spontaneous and task-induced increases in upper alpha oscillations correlate with enhanced mental rotation, suggesting a unique and inherent mental mechanism allowing specific individuals to excel compared to their counterparts who lack this capacity. The paper examines potential mechanisms underlying spontaneous and task-related upper alpha elevation, providing crucial insights for refining strategies that aim to enhance spatial skills. Our results suggest intrinsic neurophysiological predispositions supporting superior spatial processing and highlight spontaneous alpha modulation as a potential biomarker of individual differences in visuo-cognitive efficiency.</p>

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The fastest among us… The unique capacity of self-control of upper alpha brain oscillations for expedited mental rotation by some individuals

  • Nehai Farraj,
  • Miriam Reiner

摘要

We identify a previously unreported phenomenon where certain individuals show spontaneous increases in parietal–occipital upper alpha power before and after their first exposure to a mental rotation task. This enhancement likely reflects efficient cortical inhibition and selective neural tuning within visuospatial networks—mechanisms comparable to those engaged during neurofeedback-based cognitive training. Previous studies show that alpha oscillations, associated with attention, working memory, and mental rotation, can be consistently enhanced using neurofeedback. In our recent research, we found that the neurofeedback group significantly increased upper alpha amplitude and improved mental rotation speed compared to a control group. Surprisingly, some individuals in the control group exhibited increased upper alpha intensity both before and during the mental rotation task, without external conditioning. To examine this phenomenon, we conducted a follow-up study with 45 participants. First, we recorded their EEG activity, then they completed a mental rotation task. After finishing the task, participants rested for about 30 min, followed by another EEG recording before they undertook the mental rotation task again. The aim was to focus on the phenomenon where individuals exhibit spontaneous and task-related upper alpha power increases, and to examine whether their mental rotation performance differs from that of individuals without natural alpha elevation. Findings from this study are the first to show that both spontaneous and task-induced increases in upper alpha oscillations correlate with enhanced mental rotation, suggesting a unique and inherent mental mechanism allowing specific individuals to excel compared to their counterparts who lack this capacity. The paper examines potential mechanisms underlying spontaneous and task-related upper alpha elevation, providing crucial insights for refining strategies that aim to enhance spatial skills. Our results suggest intrinsic neurophysiological predispositions supporting superior spatial processing and highlight spontaneous alpha modulation as a potential biomarker of individual differences in visuo-cognitive efficiency.