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Imperatori C, Massullo C, De Rossi E, Carbone GA, Theodorou A, Scopelliti M, Romano L, Del Gatto C, Allegrini G, Carrus G, Panno A. Exposure to nature is associated with decreased functional connectivity within the distress network: A resting state EEG study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1171215. [PMID: 37151328 PMCID: PMC10158085 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1171215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite the well-established evidence supporting the restorative potential of nature exposure, the neurophysiological underpinnings of the restorative cognitive/emotional effect of nature are not yet fully understood. The main purpose of the current study was to investigate the association between exposure to nature and electroencephalography (EEG) functional connectivity in the distress network. Methods Fifty-three individuals (11 men and 42 women; mean age 21.38 ± 1.54 years) were randomly assigned to two groups: (i) a green group and (ii) a gray group. A slideshow consisting of images depicting natural and urban scenarios were, respectively, presented to the green and the gray group. Before and after the slideshow, 5 min resting state (RS) EEG recordings were performed. The exact low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (eLORETA) software was used to execute all EEG analyses. Results Compared to the gray group, the green group showed a significant increase in positive emotions (F 1; 50 = 9.50 p = 0.003) and in the subjective experience of being full of energy and alive (F 1; 50 = 4.72 p = 0.035). Furthermore, as compared to urban pictures, the exposure to natural images was associated with a decrease of delta functional connectivity in the distress network, specifically between the left insula and left subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (T = -3.70, p = 0.023). Discussion Our results would seem to be in accordance with previous neurophysiological studies suggesting that experiencing natural environments is associated with brain functional dynamics linked to emotional restorative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Imperatori
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Massullo
- Experimental Psychology Laboratory, Department of Education, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena De Rossi
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Alessio Carbone
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giuseppe Alessio Carbone,
| | - Annalisa Theodorou
- Experimental Psychology Laboratory, Department of Education, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luciano Romano
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Del Gatto
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Allegrini
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carrus
- Experimental Psychology Laboratory, Department of Education, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Panno
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Angelo Panno,
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Fusina F, Marino M, Spironelli C, Angrilli A. Ventral Attention Network Correlates With High Traits of Emotion Dysregulation in Community Women - A Resting-State EEG Study. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:895034. [PMID: 35721362 PMCID: PMC9205637 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.895034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, many studies have focused on resting-state brain activity, and especially on functional connectivity (FC), an approach that typically describes the statistical interdependence of activity in distant brain regions through specific networks. Our aim was to study the neurophysiological correlates of emotion dysregulation. Therefore, we expected that both the Default Mode Network (DMN), and the Ventral Attention Network (VAN) would have been involved. Indeed, the latter plays a role in the automatic orienting of attention towards biologically salient stimuli and includes key regions for emotion control and modulation. Starting from a community sample of 422 female students, we selected 25 women with high traits of emotion dysregulation (HD group) and 25 with low traits (LD group). They underwent a 64-channel EEG recording during a five-minute resting state with eyes open. Seed-based FC was computed on the EEG Alpha band (8-13 Hz) as a control band, and on EEG Gamma power (30-50 Hz) as the relevant measure. The power within each network and inter-network connectivity (Inter-NC) was also calculated. Analysis of the EEG Gamma band revealed, in the HD group, higher levels of Inter-NC between the VAN and all other resting-state networks as compared with the LD group, while no differences emerged in the Alpha band. Concerning correlations, Alpha power in the VAN was negatively correlated in the HD group with affective lability (ALS-18 questionnaire), both for total score (ρ = -0.52, p FDR < 0.01) and the Depression/Elation subscale) ρ = -0.45, p FDR < 0.05). Consistent with this, in the Gamma band, a positive correlation was found between VAN spectral power and the Depression/Elation subscale of ALS-18, again in the HD group only (ρ = 0.47, p FDR < 0.05). In conclusion, both resting state FC and network power in the VAN were found to be related to high emotion dysregulation, even in our non-clinical sample with high traits. Emotion dysregulation was characterized, in the EEG gamma band, by a VAN strongly connected to all other networks, a result that points, in women prone to emotion dysregulation, to a strong automatic orienting of attention towards their internal state, bodily sensations, and emotionally intense related thoughts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fusina
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Department of Movement Sciences, Research Center for Motor Control and Neuroplasticity, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- IRCCS San Camillo Hospital, Venice, Italy
| | - Chiara Spironelli
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Angrilli
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Spreyermann R. Case Report: Infra-Low-Frequency Neurofeedback for PTSD: A Therapist's Perspective. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:893830. [PMID: 35685333 PMCID: PMC9170915 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.893830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The practical use of a combination of trauma psychotherapy and neurofeedback [infra-low-frequency (ILF) neurofeedback and alpha-theta training] is described for the treatment of patients diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). The indication for this combined treatment is the persistence of symptoms of a hyper-aroused state, anxiety, and sleep disorders even with adequate trauma-focused psychotherapy and supportive medication, according to the Guidelines of the German Society of Psycho-Traumatology (DeGPT). Another indication for a supplementary treatment with neurofeedback is the persistence of dissociative symptoms. Last but not least, the neurofeedback treatment after a trauma-focused psychotherapy session helps to calm the trauma-related reactions and to process the memories. The process of the combined therapy is described and illustrated using two representative case reports. Overall, a rather satisfying result of this outpatient treatment program can be seen in the qualitative appraisal of 7 years of practical application.
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A. Markovics J. Training the Conductor of the Brainwave Symphony: In Search of a Common Mechanism of Action for All Methods of Neurofeedback. ARTIF INTELL 2022. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.98343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
There are several different methods of neurofeedback, most of which presume an operant conditioning model whereby the subject learns to control their brain activity in particular regions of the brain and/or at particular brainwave frequencies based on reinforcement. One method, however, called infra-low frequency [ILF] neurofeedback cannot be explained through this paradigm, yet it has profound effects on brain function. Like a conductor of a symphony, recent evidence demonstrates that the primary ILF (typically between 0.01–0.1 Hz), which correlates with the fluctuation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in the brain, regulates all of the classic brainwave bands (i.e. alpha, theta, delta, beta, gamma). The success of ILF neurofeedback suggests that all forms of neurofeedback may work through a similar mechanism that does not fit the operant conditioning paradigm. This chapter focuses on the possible mechanisms of action for ILF neurofeedback, which may be generalized, based on current evidence.
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Massullo C, Panno A, Carbone GA, Della Marca G, Farina B, Imperatori C. Need for cognitive closure is associated with different intra-network functional connectivity patterns: A resting state EEG study. Soc Neurosci 2022; 17:143-153. [PMID: 35167428 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2022.2043432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Need for Cognitive Closure (NCC) is a construct referring to the desire for predictability, unambiguity and firm answers to issues. Neuroscientific literature about NCC processes has mainly focused on task-related brain activity. According to the Triple Network model (TN), the main aim of the current study was to investigate resting state (RS) electroencephalographic (EEG) intra-network dynamics associated with NCC. Fifty-two young adults (39 females) were enrolled and underwent EEG recordings during RS. Functional connectivity analysis was computed through exact Low-Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography (eLORETA) software. Our results showed that higher levels of NCC were associated with both i) decreased alpha EEG connectivity within the Central Executive Network (CEN), and ii) increased delta connectivity within the Default Mode Network (DMN). No significant correlations were observed between NCC and functional connectivity in the Salience Network (SN). Our data would seem to suggest that high levels of NCC are characterized by a specific communication pattern within the CEN and the DMN during RS. These neurophysiological patterns might reflect several typical NCC-related cognitive characteristics (e.g., lower flexibility and preference for habitual and rigid response schemas).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelo Panno
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Alessio Carbone
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Della Marca
- Department of Neurosciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetto Farina
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Imperatori
- Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Ageno S, Tanaka S, Okura R, Iramina K. Differences in EEG-based Brain Network Activity during Non-REM Sleep. ADVANCED BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.14326/abe.11.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sho Ageno
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University
| | - Shu Tanaka
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University
| | - Ryoya Okura
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University
| | - Keiji Iramina
- Faculty of Information Science and Electrical Engineering, Kyushu University
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Susnoschi Luca I, Putri FD, Ding H, Vuckovič A. Brain Synchrony in Competition and Collaboration During Multiuser Neurofeedback-Based Gaming. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2021; 2:749009. [PMID: 38235241 PMCID: PMC10790838 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2021.749009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
EEG hyperscanning during multiuser gaming offers opportunities to study brain characteristics of social interaction under various paradigms. In this study, we aimed to characterize neural signatures and phase-based functional connectivity patterns of gaming strategies during collaborative and competitive alpha neurofeedback games. Twenty pairs of participants with no close relationship took part in three sessions of collaborative or competitive multiuser neurofeedback (NF), with identical graphical user interface, using Relative Alpha (RA) power as a control signal. Collaborating dyads had to keep their RA within 5% of each other for the team to be awarded a point, while members of competitive dyads scored points if their RA was 10% above their opponent's. Interbrain synchrony existed only during gaming but not during baseline in either collaborative or competitive gaming. Spectral analysis and interbrain connectivity showed that in collaborative gaming, players with higher resting state alpha content were more active in regulating their RA to match those of their partner. Moreover, interconnectivity was the strongest between homologous brain structures of the dyad in theta and alpha bands, indicating a similar degree of planning and social exchange. Competitive gaming emphasized the difference between participants who were able to relax and, in this way, maintain RA, and those who had an unsuccessful approach. Analysis of interbrain connections shows engagement of frontal areas in losers, but not in winners, indicating the formers' attempt to mentalise and apply strategies that might be suitable for conventional gaming, but inappropriate for the alpha neurofeedback-based game. We show that in gaming based on multiplayer non-verbalized NF, the winning strategy is dependent on the rules of the game and on the behavior of the opponent. Mental strategies that characterize successful gaming in the physical world might not be adequate for NF-based gaming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Susnoschi Luca
- Biomedical Research Division, School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Finda Dwi Putri
- Biomedical Research Division, School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Hao Ding
- Section of Movement Disorders and Neurostimulation, Biomedical Statistics and Multimodal Signal Processing Unit, Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Aleksandra Vuckovič
- Biomedical Research Division, School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Müller V, Perdikis D, Mende MA, Lindenberger U. Interacting brains coming in sync through their minds: an interbrain neurofeedback study. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2021; 1500:48-68. [PMID: 33956993 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neurophysiological evidence shows that interpersonal action coordination is accompanied by interbrain synchronization (IBS). However, the functional significance of this association remains unclear. Using two experimental designs, we explored whether IBS is amenable to neurofeedback (NFB). Feedback was provided either as two balls approaching each other (so-called ball design), or as two pendula, each reflecting the oscillatory activity of one of the two participants (so-called pendulum design). The NFB was provided at delta (i.e., 2.5 Hz) and theta (i.e., 5 Hz) electroencephalography frequencies, and manipulated by enhanced and inverse feedback. We showed that the participants were able to increase IBS by using NFB, especially when it was fed back at the theta frequency. Apart from intra- and interbrain coupling, other oscillatory activities (e.g., power spectral density, peak amplitude, and peak frequency) also changed during the task compared with the rest. Moreover, all the measures showed specific correlations with the subjective postsurvey item scores, reflecting subjective feeling and appraisal. We conclude that the use of IBS for NFB might help in specifying the contribution of IBS to interpersonal action coordination and in providing important information about the neural mechanisms of social interaction and the causal dimension of IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Müller
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dionysios Perdikis
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.,Brain Simulation Section, Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Melinda A Mende
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.,Division of Cognitive Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Ulman Lindenberger
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.,Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, London, United Kingdom.,Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, Berlin, Germany
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Campbell AM, Mattoni M, Yefimov MN, Adapa K, Mazur LM. Improving Cognitive Workload in Radiation Therapists: A Pilot EEG Neurofeedback Study. Front Psychol 2020; 11:571739. [PMID: 33343449 PMCID: PMC7744691 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.571739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy therapists (RTTs) face challenging daily tasks that leave them prone to high attrition and burnout and subsequent deficits in performance. Here, we employed an accelerated alpha-theta neurofeedback (NF) protocol that is implementable in a busy medical workplace to test if 12 RTTs could learn the protocol and exhibit behavior and brain performance-related benefits. Following the 3-week protocol, participants showed a decrease in subjective cognitive workload and a decrease in response time during a performance task, as well as a decrease in desynchrony of the alpha electroencephalogram (EEG) band. Additionally, novel microstate analysis for neurofeedback showed a significant decrease in global field power (GFP) following neurofeedback. These results suggest that the RTTs successfully learned the protocol and improved in perceived cognitive workload following 3 weeks of neurofeedback. In sum, this study presents promising behavioral improvements as well as brain performance-related evidence of neurophysiological changes following neurofeedback, supporting the feasibility of implementing neurofeedback in a busy workplace and encouraging the further study of neurofeedback as a tool to mitigate burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alana M Campbell
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Matthew Mattoni
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Mae Nicopolis Yefimov
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Karthik Adapa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Lukasz M Mazur
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Koizumi K, Ueda K, Li Z, Nakao M. Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Brain Networks Related to Creative Thinking. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:541052. [PMID: 33192387 PMCID: PMC7596331 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.541052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human creative thinking is unique and capable of generating novel and valuable ideas. Recent research has clarified the contribution of different brain networks (default mode network, DN; executive control network; salience network) to creative thinking. However, the effects of brain stimulation on brain networks during creative thinking and on creative performance have not been clarified. The present study was designed to examine the changes in functional connectivity (FC) and effective connectivity (EC) of the large-scale brain network, and the ensuing changes in creative performance, induced by transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Fourteen healthy male students underwent two tDCS sessions, one with actual stimulation and one with sham stimulation, on two separate days. Participants underwent tDCS (anode over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, DLPFC; cathode over the right inferior parietal lobule, IPL) for 20 min. Before and after the tDCS session, electroencephalography signals were acquired from 32 electrodes over the whole head during the creative thinking task. On FC analysis, the delta band FC between the posterior cingulate cortex and IPL significantly increased only after real stimulation. We also found that the change of flexibility score was significantly correlated with the change in: (i) delta band FC between mPFC and left lateral temporal cortex (LTC) and (ii) alpha band FC between IPL and right LTC. On EC analysis, decreased flow within the DN (from left LTC to right IPL) was observed. Our results reveal that tDCS could affect brain networks, particularly the DN, during creative thinking and modulate key FC in the generation of flexible creative ideas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kazutaka Ueda
- Creative Design Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Dysregulated brain salience within a triple network model in high trait anxiety individuals: A pilot EEG functional connectivity study. Int J Psychophysiol 2020; 157:61-69. [PMID: 32976888 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Although previous studies have reported the association between large-scale brain networks alterations and pathological anxiety, abnormalities in the dynamic interaction among the triple network model in anxiety disorders and, especially, in trait anxiety is still poorly explored. Thus, the main aim of the current study was to investigate triple network functional dynamics in subjects with high trait anxiety during resting state (RS) through electroencephalography (EEG) connectivity. Twenty-three individuals with high-trait-anxiety (HTA) and forty-five participants with low-trait-anxiety (LTA) were enrolled. EEG analyses were conducted by means of the exact Low-Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography software (eLORETA). Compared to LTA participants, HTA subjects showed a decrease of alpha connectivity within the salience network (SN), between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and both left and right anterior insula (AI). Furthermore, SN functional connectivity strength was negatively correlated with higher trait anxiety, even when controlling for potential confounding variables (e.g., depressive and obsessive-compulsive symptoms). Taken together, our results point out a specific functional connectivity pattern in HTA individuals, which consists in a dysfunctional communication within the SN, specifically in the AI-dACC pathway. This functional pattern could underline, at rest, saliency detection and brain correlates of altereted emotion regulation and cognitive control processes typically involved in anxiety.
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Increased Resting State Triple Network Functional Connectivity in Undergraduate Problematic Cannabis Users: A Preliminary EEG Coherence Study. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10030136. [PMID: 32121183 PMCID: PMC7139645 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing body of experimental data have suggested that aberrant functional interactions between large-scale networks may be the most plausible explanation of psychopathology across multiple mental disorders, including substance-related and addictive disorders. In the current research, we have investigated the association between problematic cannabis use (PCU) and triple-network electroencephalographic (EEG) functional connectivity. Twelve participants with PCU and 24 non-PCU participants were included in the study. EEG recordings were performed during resting state (RS). The exact Low-Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography software (eLORETA) was used for all EEG analyses. Compared to non-PCU, PCU participants showed an increased delta connectivity between the salience network (SN) and central executive network (CEN), specifically, between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and right posterior parietal cortex. The strength of delta connectivity between the SN and CEN was positively and significantly correlated with higher problematic patterns of cannabis use after controlling for age, sex, educational level, tobacco use, problematic alcohol use, and general psychopathology (rp = 0.40, p = 0.030). Taken together, our results show that individuals with PCU could be characterized by a specific dysfunctional interaction between the SN and CEN during RS, which might reflect the neurophysiological underpinnings of attentional and emotional processes of cannabis-related thoughts, memories, and craving.
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Bismuth J, Vialatte F, Lefaucheur JP. Relieving peripheral neuropathic pain by increasing the power-ratio of low-β over high-β activities in the central cortical region with EEG-based neurofeedback: Study protocol for a controlled pilot trial (SMRPain study). Neurophysiol Clin 2020; 50:5-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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Is resting state frontal alpha connectivity asymmetry a useful index to assess depressive symptoms? A preliminary investigation in a sample of university students. J Affect Disord 2019; 257:152-159. [PMID: 31301617 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) has been widely investigated in depressive disorders (DDs) with contradictory and not conclusive results. The main aim of the current study was to explore the association between a new neurophysiological index, the so-called frontal alpha connectivity asymmetry index (FACA-I), and depressive symptoms. METHODS One hundred and thirteen participants (45 men and 68 women, mean age: 22.83 ± 2.26 years) were enrolled. Electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings were performed during 5 min of resting state (RS). FACA-I was computed by subtracting connectivity at left frontal regions from right frontal regions and dividing by their sum. RS FAA were also computed and compared to the FACA-I in all analyses. RESULTS After controlling for the presence of potential confounding variables (i.e., sex, age and anxiety symptoms), only FACA-I scores between medial prefrontal cortex and subgenual anterior cingulate cortex were negatively associated with both somatic and cognitive/affective depressive symptoms and were lower in individuals with significant level of depressive symptoms. LIMITATIONS We focused on a sample of university students with no formal diagnosis of depression and we did not assess FAA and FACA-I during cognitive and/or emotional tasks, which make our interpretation specific to the RS condition. CONCLUSIONS Taken together our data suggest that alpha connectivity asymmetry between medial prefrontal cortex and subgenual anterior cingulate cortex may be a useful neurophysiological index in the assessment of depressive symptoms.
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Adenzato M, Imperatori C, Ardito RB, Valenti EM, Marca GD, D’Ari S, Palmiero L, Penso JS, Farina B. Activating attachment memories affects default mode network in a non-clinical sample with perceived dysfunctional parenting: An EEG functional connectivity study. Behav Brain Res 2019; 372:112059. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Default mode network alterations in individuals with high-trait-anxiety: An EEG functional connectivity study. J Affect Disord 2019; 246:611-618. [PMID: 30605880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.12.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although several researches investigated Default Mode Network (DMN) alterations in individuals with anxiety disorders, up to now no studies have investigated DMN functional connectivity in non-clinical individuals with high-trait-anxiety using quantitative electroencephalography (EEG). Here, the main aim was to extend previous findings investigating the association between trait anxiety and DMN EEG functional connectivity. METHODS Twenty-three individuals with high-trait-anxiety and twenty-four controls were enrolled. EEG was recorded during 5 min of resting state (RS). EEG analyses were conducted by means of the exact Low-Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography software (eLORETA). RESULTS Compared to controls, individuals with high-trait-anxiety showed a decrease of theta connectivity between right medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and right posterior cingulate/retrosplenial cortex. A decrease of beta connectivity was also observed between right mPFC and right anterior cingulate cortex. Furthermore, DMN functional connectivity strength was negatively related with STAI-T total score (i.e., lower connectivity was associated with higher trait anxiety), even when controlling for potential confounding variables (i.e., sex, age, and general psychopathology). LIMITATIONS Small sample size makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Furthermore, we did not assess state variation of anxiety, which make our interpretation specific to trait anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results suggest that high-trait-anxiety individuals fail to synchronize DMN during RS, reflecting a possible top-down cognitive control deficit. These results may help in the understanding of the individual differences in functional brain networks associated with trait anxiety, a crucial aim in the prevention and in the early etiology understanding of clinical anxiety and related sequelae.
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Imperatori C, Mancini M, Della Marca G, Valenti EM, Farina B. Feedback-Based Treatments for Eating Disorders and Related Symptoms: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Nutrients 2018; 10:E1806. [PMID: 30463330 PMCID: PMC6265864 DOI: 10.3390/nu10111806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The effectiveness of biofeedback and neurofeedback has been investigated in a range of psychiatric disorders. However, to date, there are few studies on the clinical usefulness of feedback-based techniques for eating disorders (EDs) and EDs-related symptoms (e.g., food craving). A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus and PsychINFO identified 162 articles. Among these, thirteen studies exploring the therapeutic use of biofeedback and neurofeedback in EDs or EDs-related symptoms were included. Biofeedback and neurofeedback were implemented respectively in five and eight of all reviewed articles. No studies incorporated different feedback modalities or both biofeedback and neurofeedback. The considered studies provide preliminary data of the usefulness of feedback-based techniques in the treatment of several dysfunctional eating behaviors (e.g., food craving, rumination). Although no significant effect has been reported for other important EDs-related symptoms (i.e., body image disturbance), feedback-based techniques are also associated with significant modifications of both sympathetic reaction to food-related stimuli and brain activity in several regions of the reward system (e.g., insula). Taken together the results of the present review suggest that feedback-based treatments may be useful in the treatment of several dysfunctional eating behaviors operating both on top-down and bottom-up individual coping strategies. Methodological and clinical issues are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Imperatori
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Via degli Aldobrandeschi 190, 00163 Roma, Italy.
| | - Miranda Mancini
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Via degli Aldobrandeschi 190, 00163 Roma, Italy.
| | - Giacomo Della Marca
- Sleep Disorders Unit, Institute of Neurology, Catholic University, 00153 Rome, Italy.
| | - Enrico Maria Valenti
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Via degli Aldobrandeschi 190, 00163 Roma, Italy.
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Benedetto Farina
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Via degli Aldobrandeschi 190, 00163 Roma, Italy.
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Fielenbach S, Donkers FCL, Spreen M, Visser HA, Bogaerts S. Neurofeedback Training for Psychiatric Disorders Associated with Criminal Offending: A Review. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:313. [PMID: 29422873 PMCID: PMC5788905 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective treatment interventions for criminal offenders are necessary to reduce risk of criminal recidivism. Evidence about deviant electroencephalographic (EEG)-frequencies underlying disorders found in criminal offenders is accumulating. Yet, treatment modalities, such as neurofeedback, are rarely applied in the forensic psychiatric domain. Since offenders usually have multiple disorders, difficulties adhering to long-term treatment modalities, and are highly vulnerable for psychiatric decompensation, more information about neurofeedback training protocols, number of sessions, and expected symptom reduction is necessary before it can be successfully used in offender populations. METHOD Studies were analyzed that used neurofeedback in adult criminal offenders, and in disorders these patients present with. Specifically aggression, violence, recidivism, offending, psychopathy, schizophrenia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance-use disorder (SUD), and cluster B personality disorders were included. Only studies that reported changes in EEG-frequencies posttreatment (increase/decrease/no change in EEG amplitude/power) were included. RESULTS Databases Psychinfo and Pubmed were searched in the period 1990-2017 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, resulting in a total of 10 studies. Studies in which neurofeedback was applied in ADHD (N = 3), SUD (N = 3), schizophrenia (N = 3), and psychopathy (N = 1) could be identified. No studies could be identified for neurofeedback applied in cluster B personality disorders, aggression, violence, or recidivism in criminal offenders. For all treatment populations and neurofeedback protocols, number of sessions varied greatly. Changes in behavioral levels ranged from no improvements to significant symptom reduction after neurofeedback training. The results are also mixed concerning posttreatment changes in targeted EEG-frequency bands. Only three studies established criteria for EEG-learning. CONCLUSION Implications of the results for the applicability of neurofeedback training in criminal offender populations are discussed. More research focusing on neurofeedback and learning of cortical activity regulation is needed in populations with externalizing behaviors associated with violence and criminal behavior, as well as multiple comorbidities. At this point, it is unclear whether standard neurofeedback training protocols can be applied in offender populations, or whether QEEG-guided neurofeedback is a better choice. Given the special context in which the studies are executed, clinical trials, as well as single-case experimental designs, might be more feasible than large double-blind randomized controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Fielenbach
- FPC Dr. S. van Mesdag, Groningen, Netherlands.,Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Bogaerts
- Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands.,FPC De Kijvelanden, Poortugaal, Netherlands
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