Auditory-visual integration during focused and divided attention

The aim of this research is to examine the modulatory effects of focused and divided attention on the redundant signal effect (RSE) observed during auditory-visual detection.

Ecological modulation of auditory-visual integration

The aim of this research is to examine the differences in auditory-visual integration during detection of stimuli with varying ecological validity. For example, AV integration of speech requires combining information from the spoken sound with the lip movement, events that are constrained by both spatial and temporal concurrence. However, combining a simple tone with a flash of light may not have the same constraints. As such, the modulation of integration effects in the brain may also differ for these different inputs. If so, we aim to examine these neurophysiological differences in detail.

Effects of sensory deprivation on auditory-visual integration

The aim of this research is to examine both the normal and pathological development of multisensory integration. The development of these functions can be assessed by comparing the psychophysiologcial and neurophysiolgical outcomes during sensory deprivation (e.g., deafness). In collaboration with the Brain & Behavior Laboratory (PI: Anu Sharma), we are investigating multisensory integration in children with cochlear implants, a prosthetic device that directly stimulates the auditory nerve. In this way, we can examine the changes in neural processing after varying periods of deprivation.

Functional Neurodynamics of grammar anomaly detection in auditory and visual modalities

The aim of this research is to describe the early detection processes involved in the identification of anomalous grammar structure in language. Our goal will be to identify sources of activity associated with the detection of an anomalous grammar structure, and to differentiate sources of language activity from modality specific (i.e., auditory or visual) influence. The Principal Investigator of this study is Dr. Albert Kim, in the Cognitive Neuroscience of Language Laboratory at the Institute of Cogntitive Science.

Cross-validation of brain source imaging using three brain imaging techniques

The aim of this project is to examine and compare brain source localization techniques between different imaging modalities and different sensory modalities with the eventual goal of defining accurate EEG models for individuals with cochlear implants, who are unable to be examined in magnetic environments (e.g., fMRI or MEG). [funded by The National Academies Keck Futures Initiative], Co-PI: MIchael Dorman, Arizona State University]

Single trial anlayses of cortical evoked potentials

The aim of this research is to develop and refine techniques for single trial analysis of evoked potentials.

Functional dynamics in auditory neuropathy

The aim of this research is to examine multi-scale temporal dynamics of auditory processes in children with auditory neuropathy, an auditory disorder that is not well defined, but is thought to effect the timing characteristics of the auditory pathways.