Multi-feature mismatch negativity: How can reliable data be recorded in a short time?

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to conduct multi-feature mismatch negativity (MMN) implementations and identify via a test-retest study the reliability of MMN responses obtained through a 5-stimulus version of the MMN paradigm. It was also aimed to identify a reliable MMN recording number by comparing the MMN responses obtained under conditions of ten and four recordings conditions while making the recording time shorter. METHODS: Twenty-one healthy volunteers, aged between 18 and 36 years, were included in the study. A 5-stimulus version of the multi-feature MMN paradigm was presented to participants. Ten recordings were obtained for each participant under both test and retest conditions. The MATLAB program was utilized in the evaluation of MMN amplitude and latency. The Fz was chosen for the statistical analysis. Four of the ten recordings were chosen at random, and statistical analyses were performed again for those four recordings. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in amplitudes obtained from test and retest conditions with ten recordings. With four recordings, for frequency, intensity, duration, and gap deviants, there were no statistically significant differences between amplitudes obtained under test and retest conditions. However, there was a statistically significant difference between amplitudes of the location deviant. No statistically significant difference was observed among latencies under test-retest conditions with both ten and four recordings. CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate that MMN amplitudes could be used reliably as short-time evaluations with four recordings, but more recordings are required for MMN latencies. In terms of practicality, four recordings are more advantageous and comfortable for both clinicians and patients in MMN practice. SIGNIFICANCE: When behavioral tests are required, MMN is regarded as an objective test that can be used reliably for adults, children, and infants who cannot be evaluated using behavioral methods. It is concluded that conditions with four recordings aremore advantageous and comfortable for both clinicians and patients in MMN practice.