Kam, JuliaAin, Yudhajit2024-08-262024-08-262024-08-26Ain, Y. (2024). Identifying EEG spectral markers of mental time travel and theory of mind (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.https://hdl.handle.net/1880/119503The default mode network (DMN) is an intrinsic brain network broadly implicated in internal attention – the process of selecting and modulating internally generated information. Several functional neuroimaging studies suggest that the DMN can be further partitioned into specialized subsystems that mediate different internal attention functions, namely mental time travel (MTT) and theory of mind (ToM). To our knowledge, however, no studies have explored their specific/contrasting electroencephalographic (EEG) spectral markers. In the present study, we identified the scalp EEG spectral markers specific to MTT and ToM. We recorded scalp EEG from N = 26 participants, while they performed an experimental task designed to engage cognitive processes associated with MTT, ToM, or simple Math (internally-oriented control condition), on a trial-by-trial basis. After subjecting the trial-wise EEG data to time-frequency decomposition, we contrasted all three trial types, pairwise, using cluster-based permutation tests. We found that MTT was associated with significantly lower bilateral posterior parietal beta (20-26 Hz) activity compared to Math, and that ToM, was associated with significantly greater right temporo-parietal beta (20-30 Hz) activity compared to MTT. Our results suggest that different patterns of beta band activity may play distinct mechanistic roles in supporting internal attention processes specific to MTT and ToM.enUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.Internal AttentionMental Time TravelTheory of MindElectroencephalographyTime-Frequency AnalysisPsychology--CognitivePsychology--ExperimentalNeurosciencemaster thesis