Feature processing and attention in the human visual system: An overview

Author(s): Kenemans, J. L., Kok, A., Molenaar, P. C. M.

Journal/Book: Biol Psychol. 1997; 45: PO Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands. Elsevier Science BV. 183-215.

Abstract: A recent development in the cognitive modelling of visual selective attention is the incorporation of design principles derived from the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the primate visual system. In this paper, we describe these recent 'neurocognitive' models in more detail, point out the underlying neurobiological principles, and show that in all cases attention is implemented as an energetical resource which can be directed to representations and pathways in the system. In the second part of the paper, we specify the predictions derived from this 'energy hypothesis', and evaluate available data pertaining to this issue. We present new analyses of electrophysiological data in order to directly test the hypothesis that attention modulates feature-specific representations. It will be shown that in the case of sustained spatial attention, the data are in agreement with this hypothesis, whereas in the case of nonspatial attention, there is no evidence of a modulation of feature-specific pathways by attention.

Note: Article Heslenfeld DJ, Univ Amsterdam, Dept Psychon, Roetersstr 15, NL-1018 Wb Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS

Keyword(s): cognitive modelling; selective attention; visual system; event-related potentials; spatial frequency; selection negativity; EVENT-RELATED POTENTIALS; SELECTIVE ATTENTION; SHAPE IDENTIFICATION; SPECIFICITY; INFORMATION; MECHANISMS; MODEL; SIZE; CONNECTIONS; CHANNELS

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