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A novel method for modeling tonic and phasic pupil dynamics in humans.
Matthias Mittner1, Josephine Maria Groot2
1Institute for Psychology, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Hansine Hansens veg 18, Tromsø, 9019, Norway. matthias.mittner@uit.no.
Behavior Research Methods
|July 27, 2025
Summary
We developed a new algorithm to analyze pupil diameter (PD) signals, separating them into tonic and phasic components. This method offers a more precise understanding of cognitive processes than traditional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Psychology and Neuroscience
- Physiological Metrics
Background:
- Pupil diameter (PD) changes are linked to locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC/NE) activity.
- LC/NE activity influences cognitive and behavioral optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce a novel algorithm to decompose the pupil signal into tonic and phasic components.
- Evaluate the algorithm's utility and validity against traditional methods.
Main Methods:
- Developed a new algorithm for pupil signal decomposition.
- Validated the algorithm using simulated data and an existing finger-tapping task dataset.
Main Results:
- The novel algorithm outperformed traditional approaches on simulated data.
- Provided more conclusive evidence for links between mind wandering and pupil predictors.
- Demonstrated that novel and traditional estimates offer distinct information on neuroimaging and task performance.
Conclusions:
- The novel algorithm offers a more refined analysis of pupil dynamics.
- This method enhances the understanding of cognitive processes through pupil signal analysis.
