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Abellaneda-Pérez K, Potash RM, Pascual-Leone A, Sacchet MD. Neuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 166:105862. [PMID: 39186992 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
The neuroscience of meditation is providing insight into meditation's beneficial effects on well-being and informing understanding of consciousness. However, further research is needed to explicate mechanisms linking brain activity and meditation. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) presents a promising approach for causally investigating neural mechanisms of meditation. Prior NIBS-meditation research has predominantly targeted frontal and parietal cortices suggesting that it might be possible to boost the behavioral and neural effects of meditation with NIBS. Moreover, NIBS has revealed distinct neural signatures in long-term meditators. Nonetheless, methodological variations in NIBS-meditation research contributes to challenges for definitive interpretation of previous results. Future NIBS studies should further investigate core substrates of meditation, including specific brain networks and oscillations, and causal neural mechanisms of advanced meditation. Overall, NIBS-meditation research holds promise for enhancing meditation-based interventions in support of well-being and resilience in both non-clinical and clinical populations, and for uncovering the brain-mind mechanisms of meditation and consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kilian Abellaneda-Pérez
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut Guttmann, Institut Universitari de Neurorehabilitació adscrit a la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ruby M Potash
- Meditation Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Alvaro Pascual-Leone
- Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research and Deanna and Sidney Wolk Center for Memory Health, Hebrew SeniorLife, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew D Sacchet
- Meditation Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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Treves IN, Greene KD, Bajwa Z, Wool E, Kim N, Bauer CCC, Bloom PA, Pagliaccio D, Zhang J, Whitfield-Gabrieli S, Auerbach RP. Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback: A Systematic Review of EEG and fMRI studies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.12.612669. [PMID: 39314394 PMCID: PMC11419071 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.12.612669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Here, we systematically reviewed EEG and fMRI studies of mindfulness meditation with neurofeedback (mbNF) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We identified 10 fMRI reports, consisting of 177 unique participants, and 9 EEG reports, consisting of 242 participants. Studies of fMRI focused primarily on downregulating the default-mode network (DMN). Although studies found decreases in DMN activations during neurofeedback, there is a lack of evidence for transfer effects, and the majority of studies did not employ adequate controls, e.g. sham neurofeedback. Accordingly, DMN decreases may have been confounded by general task-related deactivation. EEG studies typically examined alpha, gamma, and theta frequency bands, with the most robust evidence supporting the modulation of theta band activity. Both EEG and fMRI mbNF have been implemented with high fidelity in clinical populations. However, the mental health benefits of mbNF have not been established. In general, mbNF studies would benefit from sham-controlled RCTs, as well as clear reporting (e.g. CRED-NF).
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Bao Z, Burhan A, Frewen P. Transcranial direct current stimulation over medial prefrontal cortex reduced alpha power and functional connectivity during somatic but not semantic self-referential processing. Neuroscience 2024; 553:185-196. [PMID: 38944148 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Past self-report and cognitive-behavioural studies of the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) on semantic self-referential processing (SRP) have yielded mixed results. Meanwhile, electroencephalography (EEG) studies show that alpha oscillation (8-12 Hz) may be involved during both semantic and somatic SRP, although the effect of tDCS on alpha-EEG during SRP remains unknown. The current study assessed the EEG and subjective effects of 2 mA tDCS over the mPFC while participants were SRP either on semantic (life roles, e.g., "friend") or somatic (outer body, e.g., "arms") self-referential stimuli compared to resting state and an external attention memory task in 52 young adults. Results showed that whereas mPFC-tDCS did not yield significant changes in participants' mood or experienced attention or pleasantness levels during the SRP task, EEG source analysis indicated, compared to sham stimulation, that tDCS reduced alpha power during somatic but not semantic SRP in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), and the frontal, parietal, temporal, and somatosensory cortex, and reduced the functional connectivity between the left inferior parietal lobule and the ventral PCC, but only when mPFC-tDCS was applied at the second while not the first experimental session. Our results suggest that while mPFC-tDCS may be insufficient to alter immediate subjective experience during SRP, mPFC-tDCS may modulate the power and functional connectivity of the brain's alpha oscillations during somatic SRP. Future research directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjie Bao
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Amer Burhan
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, Whitby, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty School of Medicine, University of Toronto, Whitby, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Frewen
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, ON, Canada.
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Usman M, Jung T, Hsin D, Lin C. The effect of Zentangle on cognitive focus, emotional well-being, and stress levels: A neural perspective. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3628. [PMID: 39169432 PMCID: PMC11338741 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to assess how a Zentangle intervention influences cognitive focus, emotional well-being, stress levels, and neural activity patterns across brain regions and frequency bands. METHOD A cohort of 30 healthy adults, all without prior Zentangle experience, participated in this study. Electroencephalography (EEG) was used to measure their brain activity, and self-reported data were collected through questionnaires to assess subjects' concentration levels, emotional calm, and stress and anxiety. FINDINGS Participants reported enhanced cognitive focus and emotional well-being, evidenced by increased self-reported concentration and emotional calmness, and reduced stress and anxiety levels during the intervention. EEG analyses revealed notable changes in neural activity patterns, including decreased delta power and increased theta, alpha, beta, and gamma bands. Functional connectivity analysis also highlighted alterations in the brain's functional connectivity, suggesting potential effects on neural communication and information processing. CONCLUSION This study provides compelling evidence of Zentangle's impact on EEG data, aligning it with equanimity and tranquility consistent with previous mindfulness research. These findings underscore Zentangle as an effective mindfulness practice, potentially enhancing cognitive focus and emotional well-being, and emerging as a valuable intervention for improving mental health and overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Usman
- International Ph.D. Program in Innovative Technology of Biomedical Engineering and Medical DevicesMing Chi University of TechnologyNew Taipei CityTaiwan
| | - Tzzy‐Ping Jung
- Institute for Neural Computation and Institute of Engineering in MedicineUniversity of California San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ding‐Yun Hsin
- Taipei Municipal Yangming High SchoolTaipei CityTaiwan
| | - Chun‐Ling Lin
- Department of Electrical EngineeringMing Chi University of TechnologyNew Taipei CityTaiwan
- Department of Electronic EngineeringNational Taipei University of TechnologyTaipeiTaiwan
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Mograbi DC, Rodrigues R, Bienemann B, Huntley J. Brain Networks, Neurotransmitters and Psychedelics: Towards a Neurochemistry of Self-Awareness. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2024; 24:323-340. [PMID: 38980658 PMCID: PMC11258181 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-024-01353-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Self-awareness can be defined as the capacity of becoming the object of one's own awareness and, increasingly, it has been the target of scientific inquiry. Self-awareness has important clinical implications, and a better understanding of the neurochemical basis of self-awareness may help clarifying causes and developing interventions for different psychopathological conditions. The current article explores the relationship between neurochemistry and self-awareness, with special attention to the effects of psychedelics. RECENT FINDINGS The functioning of self-related networks, such as the default-mode network and the salience network, and how these are influenced by different neurotransmitters is discussed. The impact of psychedelics on self-awareness is reviewed in relation to specific processes, such as interoception, body ownership, agency, metacognition, emotional regulation and autobiographical memory, within a framework based on predictive coding. Improved outcomes in emotional regulation and autobiographical memory have been observed in association with the use of psychedelics, suggesting higher-order self-awareness changes, which can be modulated by relaxation of priors and improved coping mechanisms linked to cognitive flexibility. Alterations in bodily self-awareness are less consistent, being potentially impacted by doses employed, differences in acute/long-term effects and the presence of clinical conditions. Future studies investigating the effects of different molecules in rebalancing connectivity between resting-state networks may lead to novel therapeutic approaches and the refinement of existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Mograbi
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Rafael Rodrigues
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bheatrix Bienemann
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jonathan Huntley
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London, London, UK
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Morin A, Grondin S. Mindfulness and time perception: A systematic integrative review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105657. [PMID: 38583653 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Several recent studies have explored the relationships between mindfulness and time perception, an area of research that has become increasingly popular in the last 10-15 years. In this article, we present a systematic integrative review of the evidence on this subject. We also integrate the field's findings into a conceptual framework which considers the multifaceted nature of both mindfulness, and time perception research. To identify the relevant literature, we searched the following databases using relevant keywords: PsycINFO; Medline; EBSCO Host Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection; and Web of Science. These searches were last performed on the 4th of May 2022, and additional hand searches were also conducted. To be included, articles had to be in English and contain original data about the potential relationship(s) between mindfulness and time perception. Articles which did not present usable data about the relationship(s) between the variables of interest were excluded. In total, 47 research articles were included in the review (combined sample size of ∼5800 participants). Risks of bias in the selected studies were evaluated using two separate assessment tools designed for this purpose. Through an integrative narrative synthesis, this article reviews how mindfulness may relate to time perception for various reference frames, and for various time perception measures and methods. It also provides new insights by exploring how a wide range of findings can be integrated into a coherent whole, in light of some relevant time perception models and mindfulness theories. Altogether, the reviewed data suggest the existence of complex and multifaceted relationships between mindfulness and time perception, highlighting the importance of considering many factors when planning research or interpreting data in this field. Limitations of the current review include the scarceness of data for certain categories of findings, and the relatively low prevalence of studies with a randomized controlled design in the source literature. This research was partly funded by a grant from the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Morin
- École de psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
| | - Simon Grondin
- École de psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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McDonald H, Valmaggia L, Antonova E, Chadwick P. Taking the edge off: a feasibility randomized controlled trial of an online mindfulness-based intervention to reduce suspiciousness/paranoia in high positive schizotypy. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1380077. [PMID: 38962229 PMCID: PMC11221385 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1380077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Positive schizotypy can uniquely predict the development of psychosis with suspiciousness/paranoia having emerged as a key risk factor, pointing to significant worth in reducing this aspect in individuals with high positive schizotypy. Reduced paranoia in the general population following brief online mindfulness training has been previously reported. This study investigated the feasibility of a 40-day online mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) (n = 12) in the individuals with high positive schizotypy characterized by high suspiciousness/paranoia and to estimate its effect on paranoia as compared with an active control condition using reflective journaling (n = 12). The outcome measures were self-reported trait and VR-induced state paranoia, completed at baseline, after 10 days and post-intervention. The feasibility criteria included retention, adherence, engagement, and acceptability. There was 100% retention, excellent adherence to content and engagement, with an average MBI session completion rate of 91%. Acceptability, indexed by a self-rated motivation to continue practice post-intervention, was also high. No MBI effect on trait paranoia was observed; however, the MBI group showed a reduction in the VR-induced state paranoia with a medium-to-large effect (d = 0.63). The findings support conducting larger-scale randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effects of online MBIs on reducing suspiciousness/paranoia to mitigate psychosis risk in individuals with high positive schizotypy. Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.isrctn.com/, identifier ISRCTN78697391.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather McDonald
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia Valmaggia
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- ORYGEN, Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elena Antonova
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Chadwick
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Bath Centre for Mindfulness and Compassion, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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8
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Glicksohn J, Ben-Soussan TD. The sands of time: Discontinuity in time production, or inadequacy of psychophysical fit? PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2024; 287:1-24. [PMID: 39097349 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
In a recent study employing time production, a number of participants presented aberrant data, which normally would have marked them as being outliers. Given the ongoing discussion in the literature regarding the illusory nature of the flow of time, in this paper we consider whether their data may indicate discontinuity in time perception. We analyze the log-log plots for these outliers, investigating to what degree linearity is preserved for all the data points, as opposed to achieving a better fit using bisegmental regression. The current results, though preliminary, can contribute to the debate regarding the non-linearity of subjective time. It would seem that with longer target durations, the ongoing experience of time can be either one of a subjective slowing down of time (longer time units, increase in slope), or of a subjective speeding up of time (shorter time units, decrease in slope).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Glicksohn
- Department of Criminology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel; The Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation for Development and Communication, Assisi, Italy
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Merlet I, Guillery M, Weyl L, Hammal M, Maliia M, Maliia S, Biraben A, Ricordeau C, Drapier D, Nica A. EEG changes induced by meditative practices: State and trait effects in healthy subjects and in patients with epilepsy. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2024; 180:326-347. [PMID: 38503588 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2024.02.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The effect of meditation on brain activity has been the topic of many studies in healthy subjects and in patients suffering from chronic diseases. These effects are either explored during meditation practice (state effects) or as a longer-term result of meditation training during the resting-state (trait). The topic of this article is to first review these findings by focusing on electroencephalography (EEG) changes in healthy subjects with or without experience in meditation. Modifications in EEG baseline rhythms, functional connectivity and advanced nonlinear parameters are discussed in regard to feasibility in clinical applications. Secondly, we provide a state-of-the-art of studies that proposed meditative practices as a complementary therapy in patients with epilepsy, in whom anxiety and depressive symptoms are prevalent. In these studies, the effects of standardized meditation programs including elements of traditional meditation practices such as mindfulness, loving-kindness and compassion are explored both at the level of psychological functioning and on the occurrence of seizures. Lastly, preliminary results are given regarding our ongoing study, the aim of which is to quantify the effects of a mindfulness self-compassion (MSC) practice on interictal and ictal epileptic activity. Feasibility, difficulties, and prospects of this study are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Merlet
- Universitiy of Rennes, INSERM, LTSI - UMR 1099, F-35000 Rennes, France.
| | - M Guillery
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume-Regnier (CHGR), University of Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - L Weyl
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume-Regnier (CHGR), University of Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - M Hammal
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume-Regnier (CHGR), University of Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - M Maliia
- Universitiy of Rennes, INSERM, LTSI - UMR 1099, F-35000 Rennes, France; Epilepsy Unit, Reference Center for Rare Epilepsies, Neurology Department, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France; Center for Clinical Investigation CIC-P INSERM 1414, F-35000 Rennes, France.
| | - S Maliia
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume-Regnier (CHGR), University of Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - A Biraben
- Universitiy of Rennes, INSERM, LTSI - UMR 1099, F-35000 Rennes, France; Epilepsy Unit, Reference Center for Rare Epilepsies, Neurology Department, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France; Center for Clinical Investigation CIC-P INSERM 1414, F-35000 Rennes, France.
| | - C Ricordeau
- Epilepsy Resource Team, 54, rue Saint-Helier, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - D Drapier
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume-Regnier (CHGR), University of Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - A Nica
- Universitiy of Rennes, INSERM, LTSI - UMR 1099, F-35000 Rennes, France; Epilepsy Unit, Reference Center for Rare Epilepsies, Neurology Department, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France; Center for Clinical Investigation CIC-P INSERM 1414, F-35000 Rennes, France.
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10
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Zarka D, Cevallos C, Ruiz P, Petieau M, Cebolla AM, Bengoetxea A, Cheron G. Electroencephalography microstates highlight specific mindfulness traits. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:1753-1769. [PMID: 38221503 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the spontaneous dynamics of large-scale brain networks underlying mindfulness as a dispositional trait, through resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) microstates analysis. Eighteen participants had attended a standardized mindfulness-based stress reduction training (MBSR), and 18 matched waitlist individuals (CTRL) were recorded at rest while they were passively exposed to auditory stimuli. Participants' mindfulness traits were assessed with the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). To further explore the relationship between microstate dynamics at rest and mindfulness traits, participants were also asked to rate their experience according to five phenomenal dimensions. After training, MBSR participants showed a highly significant increase in FFMQ score, as well as higher observing and non-reactivity FFMQ sub-scores than CTRL participants. Microstate analysis revealed four classes of microstates (A-D) in global clustering across all subjects. The MBSR group showed lower duration, occurrence and coverage of microstate C than the control group. Moreover, these microstate C parameters were negatively correlated to non-reactivity sub-scores of FFMQ across participants, whereas the microstate A occurrence was negatively correlated to FFMQ total score. Further analysis of participants' self-reports suggested that MBSR participants showed a better sensory-affective integration of auditory interferences. In line with previous studies, our results suggest that temporal dynamics of microstate C underlie specifically the non-reactivity trait of mindfulness. These findings encourage further research into microstates in the evaluation and monitoring of the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on the mental health and well-being of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Zarka
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Cevallos
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica, Escuela Politécnica Nacional, Quito, Ecuador
| | - P Ruiz
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica, Escuela Politécnica Nacional, Quito, Ecuador
| | - M Petieau
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - A M Cebolla
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Bengoetxea
- Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Athenea Neuroclinics, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - G Cheron
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Research Unit in Sciences of Osteopathy, Faculty of Human Motor Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Electrophysiology, Université de Mons, Mons, Belgium
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11
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Bailey NW, Fulcher BD, Caldwell B, Hill AT, Fitzgibbon B, van Dijk H, Fitzgerald PB. Uncovering a stability signature of brain dynamics associated with meditation experience using massive time-series feature extraction. Neural Netw 2024; 171:171-185. [PMID: 38091761 DOI: 10.1016/j.neunet.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Previous research has examined resting electroencephalographic (EEG) data to explore brain activity related to meditation. However, previous research has mostly examined power in different frequency bands. The practical objective of this study was to comprehensively test whether other types of time-series analysis methods are better suited to characterize brain activity related to meditation. To achieve this, we compared >7000 time-series features of the EEG signal to comprehensively characterize brain activity differences in meditators, using many measures that are novel in meditation research. Eyes-closed resting-state EEG data from 49 meditators and 46 non-meditators was decomposed into the top eight principal components (PCs). We extracted 7381 time-series features from each PC and each participant and used them to train classification algorithms to identify meditators. Highly differentiating individual features from successful classifiers were analysed in detail. Only the third PC (which had a central-parietal maximum) showed above-chance classification accuracy (67 %, pFDR = 0.007), for which 405 features significantly distinguished meditators (all pFDR < 0.05). Top-performing features indicated that meditators exhibited more consistent statistical properties across shorter subsegments of their EEG time-series (higher stationarity) and displayed an altered distributional shape of values about the mean. By contrast, classifiers trained with traditional band-power measures did not distinguish the groups (pFDR > 0.05). Our novel analysis approach suggests the key signatures of meditators' brain activity are higher temporal stability and a distribution of time-series values suggestive of longer, larger, or more frequent non-outlying voltage deviations from the mean within the third PC of their EEG data. The higher temporal stability observed in this EEG component might underpin the higher attentional stability associated with meditation. The novel time-series properties identified here have considerable potential for future exploration in meditation research and the analysis of neural dynamics more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil W Bailey
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Ben D Fulcher
- School of Physics, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Bridget Caldwell
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aron T Hill
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bernadette Fitzgibbon
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hanneke van Dijk
- Research Institute Brainclinics, Brainclinics Foundation, Nijmegen, the Kingdom of the Netherlands; Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, University Maastricht, Maastricht, the Kingdom of the Netherlands
| | - Paul B Fitzgerald
- Monarch Research Institute, Monarch Mental Health Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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Upshaw JD, Shields GS, Judah MR, Zabelina DL. Electrophysiological effects of smartphone notifications on cognitive control following a brief mindfulness induction. Biol Psychol 2024; 185:108725. [PMID: 37993083 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2023.108725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Smartphone use is nearly ubiquitous, with 93% of adults among economically developed countries, including the United States, Canada, Israel, and South Korea owning a smartphone (Taylor & Silver, 2019). Multiple studies have demonstrated the distracting effects of smartphone notifications on behavioral measures of cognition. Fewer studies have examined the effects of notifications on neural activity underlying higher-level cognitive processes or behavioral inductions to reduce smartphone-related distraction. Using EEG spectral frequency power densities, we assessed the effects of smartphone notifications (vs. control trials) on engagement of attentional shifting processes involved in cognitive control during a Navon Letter visual oddball task. Participants were randomly assigned to a brief mindfulness induction (N = 44) or a neutral narration control condition (N = 43). Overall, participants had lower theta-band power, but higher alpha- and beta-band power densities on target letter trials preceded by smartphone notifications. Additionally, participants in the mindfulness (vs. control) condition had a larger attention shifting oddball assessed via theta power density and theta/beta ratio (TBR) values-reflecting increased engagement of cognitive control-particularly on smartphone notification (vs. control) trials. Altogether, these results provide evidence supporting the idea that smartphone notifications can decrease activity of neural correlates of cognitive control, and offer the promise of a brief mindfulness induction to buffer against the effects of smartphone notifications on cognitive control. The findings indicate a need for further research on mindfulness inductiosn as a means to reduce potential distraction caused by smartphones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D Upshaw
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Arkansas, 480 N. Campus Walk, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA.
| | - Grant S Shields
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Arkansas, 480 N. Campus Walk, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Matt R Judah
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Arkansas, 480 N. Campus Walk, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Darya L Zabelina
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Arkansas, 480 N. Campus Walk, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
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13
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Luo M, Gan Q, Huang Z, Jiang Y, Li K, Wu M, Yang D, Shao H, Chen Y, Fu Y, Chen Z. Changes in Mental Health and EEG Biomarkers of Undergraduates Under Different Patterns of Mindfulness. Brain Topogr 2024; 37:75-87. [PMID: 38145437 PMCID: PMC10771601 DOI: 10.1007/s10548-023-01026-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
The effects of short-term mindfulness are associated with the different patterns (autonomic, audio guided, or experienced and certified mindfulness instructor guided mindfulness). However, robust evidence for reported the impacts of different patterns of mindfulness on mental health and EEG biomarkers of undergraduates is currently lacking. Therefore, we aimed to test the hypotheses that mindfulness training for undergraduates would improve mental health, and increase alpha power over frontal region and theta power over midline region at the single electrode level. We also describe the distinction among frequency bands patterns in different sites of frontal and midline regions. 70 participants were enrolled and assigned to either 5-day mindfulness or a waiting list group. Subjective questionnaires measured mental health and other psychological indicators, and brain activity was recorded during various EEG tasks before and after the intervention. The 5-day mindfulness training improved trait mindfulness, especially observing (p = 0.001, d = 0.96) and nonreactivity (p = 0.03, d = 0.56), sleep quality (p = 0.001, d = 0.91), and social support (p = 0.001, d = 0.95) while not in affect. Meanwhile, the expected increase in the alpha power of frontal sites (p < 0.017, d > 0.84) at the single electrode level was confirmed by the current data rather than the theta. Interestingly, the alteration of low-beta power over the single electrode of the midline (p < 0.05, d > 0.71) was difference between groups. Short-term mindfulness improves practitioners' mental health, and the potentially electrophysiological biomarkers of mindfulness on neuron oscillations were alpha activity over frontal sites and low-beta activity over midline sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaoling Luo
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Quan Gan
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Ziyang Huang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yunxiong Jiang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Kebin Li
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Minxiang Wu
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Dongxiao Yang
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Heng Shao
- Department of Geriatrics, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Yanmei Chen
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Zhuangfei Chen
- Medical Faculty, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.
- Brain Science and Visual Cognition Research Center, Medical School of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.
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14
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Chaudhary IS, Shyi GCW, Huang STT. A systematic review and activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis of fMRI studies on arousing or wake-promoting effects in Buddhist meditation. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1136983. [PMID: 38022985 PMCID: PMC10646186 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1136983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional Buddhist texts illustrate meditation as a condition of relaxed alertness that must fend against extreme hypoarousal (sleep, drowsiness) and extreme hyperarousal (restlessness). Theoretical, neurophysiological, and neuroimaging investigations of meditation have highlighted the relaxing effects and hypoarousing without emphasizing the alertness-promoting effects. Here we performed a systematic review supported by an activation-likelihood estimate (ALE) meta-analysis in an effort to counterbalance the surfeit of scholarship emphasizing the hypoarousing and relaxing effects of different forms of Buddhist meditation. Specifically, the current systematic review-cum-meta-analytical review seeks to highlight more support for meditation's wake-promoting effects by drawing from neuroimaging research during wakefulness and meditation. In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 fMRI studies, we aim to highlight support for Buddhist meditation's wake-promoting or arousing effects by identifying brain regions associated with alertness during meditation. The most significant peaks were localized medial frontal gyrus (MFG) and precuneus. We failed to determine areas ostensibly common to alertness-related meditation such as the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), superior parietal lobule, basal ganglia, thalamus, most likely due to the relatively fewer fMRI investigations that used wakefulness-promoting meditation techniques. Also, we argue that forthcoming research on meditation, related to alertness or wakefulness, continues to adopt a multi-modal method to investigate the correlation between actual behaviors and neural networks connected to Buddhist meditation. Moreover, we recommend the implementation of fMRI paradigms on Buddhist meditation with clinically diagnosed participants to complement recent trends in psychotherapy such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Inder S. Chaudhary
- PhD Program in Cognitive Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
- Center for Research in Cognitive Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
| | - Gary Chon-Wen Shyi
- PhD Program in Cognitive Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
- Center for Research in Cognitive Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Tseng Tina Huang
- PhD Program in Cognitive Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
- Center for Research in Cognitive Sciences, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
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15
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Aldahadha B. Developing a Jordanian Measure of Reverence in Muslim Praying ('Khushoo'): Content Validity, Factor Structure and Reliability. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:3664-3686. [PMID: 36943556 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01801-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Many Muslims complain of straying while praying because of life's problems and psychological pressures (i.e., reflecting on topics other than prayer). To assess this problem, it was necessary to develop a measure of reverence in Muslim praying (MRMP). The study aimed to collect items from the theoretical literature and investigate these to determine the validity of the content by consultation with a group of experts (n = 17), after which the number of items was reduced to 39. The study focused on two random and completely different samples. The first sample (n = 396) was used to verify the validity of exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The results showed that the following four factors explain 67.27% of the variance in the total scale: groveling, focused attention, contemplation, and praying behavior control. The second sample (n = 362) was used to verify the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) as well as the convergent validity and reliability of the data. Additionally, the four factors were confirmed using bifactor confirmatory factor analysis (B-CFA) and met the criteria for fitness. Likewise, all correlation values between the MRMP and mental health, mindfulness, happiness, and well-being were significant. In addition, the Cronbach's alpha coefficients of the four factors ranged between 0.85 and 0.77 and the total score was 0.92. Finally, the correlations between the MRMP and the four factors were significant. The study concluded that the MRMP is appropriate for assessing reverence in Muslim praying, can be used to promote psychological health in the context of prayers, and can serve as a foundation for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basim Aldahadha
- Department of Counseling and Special Education, Mutah University, Mutah, Al-Karak, 61710, Jordan.
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16
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Fabbri M. Mindfulness, Subjective Cognitive Functioning, Sleep Timing and Time Expansion during COVID-19 Lockdown: A Longitudinal Study in Italy. Clocks Sleep 2023; 5:313-332. [PMID: 37366659 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep5020024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 lockdown, a distortion of time passage has been widely reported in association with a change in daily rhythm. However, several variables related to these changes have not been considered. The purpose of the present study was to assess the changes in dispositional mindfulness, time experience, sleep timing and subjective memory functioning. A longitudinal study was conducted on 39 Italian adults (53.85% males; 35.03 ± 14.02 years) assessing mindfulness, ad hoc questions of sleep habits during workdays and free days, chronotypes, subjective time experience, and memory functioning before (December 2019-March 2020) and during (April 2020-May 2020) the first Italian COVID-19 lockdown. Participants reported delayed sleep timing, a slowdown in the perception of the present time, a decrease of time pressure, and an increase in the feeling of time expansion/boredom. In addition to correlations between mindfulness, memory functioning, and subjective sleep duration during workdays, a mediation model showed that changes in the dispositional mindfulness determined a delay of bedtime during workdays through the mediation effect of increased feeling of time expansion/boredom. This finding highlighted the role of mindfulness in reducing the feeling of time expansion/boredom for regulating the sleep timing. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Fabbri
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, CE, Italy
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17
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Aguerre NV, Gómez-Ariza CJ, Ibáñez-Molina AJ, Bajo MT. Electrophysiological correlates of dispositional mindfulness: A quantitative and complexity EEG study. Br J Psychol 2023. [PMID: 36748402 DOI: 10.1111/bjop.12636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
While growing evidence supports that dispositional mindfulness relates to psychological health and cognitive enhancement, to date there have been only a few attempts to characterize its neural underpinnings. In the present study, we aimed at exploring the electrophysiological (EEG) signature of dispositional mindfulness using quantitative and complexity measures of EEG during resting state and while performing a learning task. Hundred twenty participants were assessed with the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire and underwent 5 min eyes-closed resting state and 5 min at task EEG recording. We hypothesized that high mindfulness individuals would show patterns of brain activity related to (a) lower involvement of the default mode network (DMN) at rest (reduced frontal gamma power) and (b) a state of 'task readiness' reflected in a more similar pattern from rest to task (reduced overall q-EEG power at rest but not at task), as compared to their low mindfulness counterparts. Dispositional mindfulness was significantly linked to reduced frontal gamma power at rest and lower overall power during rest but not at task. In addition, we found a trend towards higher entropy during task performance in mindful individuals, which has recently been reported during mindfulness meditation. Altogether, our results add to those from expert meditators to show that high (dispositional) mindfulness seems to have a specific electrophysiological pattern characteristic of less involvement of the DMN and mind-wandering processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Victoria Aguerre
- Department of Experimental Psychology - Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | | | - María Teresa Bajo
- Department of Experimental Psychology - Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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18
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Shemesh L, Mendelsohn A, Panitz DY, Berkovich-Ohana A. Enhanced declarative memory in long-term mindfulness practitioners. PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2023; 87:294-307. [PMID: 35226153 DOI: 10.1007/s00426-022-01642-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mindfulness meditation (MM) practice is considered to benefit physical and mental health. In particular, several studies have shown a beneficial effect of MM practice on memory performance. However, it is still not clear how long-term training affects long-term declarative memory. In this study we aimed to examine whether long-term MM training impacts declarative memory formation for diverse memoranda types, as well as the role of trait mindfulness, and the possible mediating role of anxiety. METHODS We examined long-term memory performance in 23 experienced MM practitioners and 22 meditation-naïve age-matched individuals, by administering a variety of declarative memory tests, ranging from item recognition to narrative and autobiographical memory recollection and future projection. The participants also filled the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). RESULTS Compared to the control group, long-term MM practitioners exhibited heightened memory performance for the picture recognition test and experienced enhanced vividness during autobiographic memory retrieval and future simulations. We also report a significant trait mindfulness and memory performance correlation, stemming exclusively from the Mm group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings extend previous reports of the beneficial effect of a short-term MM training on memory performance, by showing the beneficial effect of long-term training on declarative memory. We also provide initial evidence that trait mindfulness is positively correlated with declarative memory performance, as a function of MM practice, and discuss these findings in light of the role of self-mode and cognitive diffusion, as well as attention and emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Shemesh
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Avi Mendelsohn
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Daniel Yochai Panitz
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Aviva Berkovich-Ohana
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. .,Faculty of Education, Department of Learning, Instruction and Teacher Education, Department of Counseling and Human Development, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. .,Edmond Safra Brain Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. .,Faculty of Education, The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, The Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center for the Study of Learning Disabilities, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
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19
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Pavlovian-based neurofeedback enhances meta-awareness of mind-wandering. Neural Netw 2023; 158:239-248. [PMID: 36473291 DOI: 10.1016/j.neunet.2022.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Absorption in mind-wandering (MW) may worsen our mood and can cause psychological disorders. Researchers indicate the possibility that meta-awareness of MW prevents these mal-effects and enhances favorable consequences of MW, such as boosting creativity; thus, meta-awareness has attracted psychological and clinical attention. However, few studies have investigated the nature of meta-awareness of MW, because there has been no method to isolate and operate this ability. Therefore, we propose a new approach to manipulate the ability of meta-awareness. We used Pavlovian conditioning, tying to it an occurrence of MW and a neutral tone sound inducing the meta-awareness of MW. To perform paired presentations of the unconditioned stimulus (neutral tone) and the conditioned stimulus (perception accompanying MW), we detected participants' natural occurrence of MW via electroencephalogram and a machine-learning estimation method. The double-blinded randomized controlled trial with 37 participants found that a single 20-min conditioning session significantly increased the meta-awareness of MW as assessed by behavioral and neuroscientific measures. The core protocol of the proposed method is real-time feedback on participants' neural information, and in that sense, we can refer to it as neurofeedback. However, there are some differences from typical neurofeedback protocols, and we discuss them in this paper. Our novel classical conditioning is expected to contribute to future research on the modulation effect of meta-awareness on MW.
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20
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Luo X, Che X, Li H. Concurrent TMS-EEG and EEG reveal neuroplastic and oscillatory changes associated with self-compassion and negative emotions. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2023; 23:100343. [PMID: 36299492 PMCID: PMC9577271 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2022.100343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective Self-compassion has a consensual relevance for overall mental health, but its mechanisms remain unknown. Using intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) and concurrent transcranial magnetic stimulation-electroencephalography (TMS-EEG), this study investigated the causal relationship of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) with self-compassion and explored the changes in neuroplasticity and neural dynamics. Method Thirty-two healthy participants received iTBS or sham stimulation over the DLPFC, before and after which they were instructed to either use self-compassionate strategies or to be rejected in the context of social rejection and to report the level of self-compassion or negative affect. TMS-evoked potentials were evaluated as novel neuroplastic techniques with N45, P60, N100, and P180. Results iTBS uniquely decreased P180 amplitude measured with TMS-EEG whereby sham stimulation had no effect on neuroplasticity. In line with neuroplasticity changes, iTBS enhanced a widespread gamma band power and coherence, which correlated consistently with increased engagement in self-compassion. Meanwhile, iTBS demonstrated opposite effects on theta activity dependent on the social contexts whereby self-compassion decreased and social rejection enhanced it respectively. This unique effect of iTBS on theta activity was also supplemented by the enhancement of theta band coherence following iTBS. Conclusions We found a causal relationship between DLPFC and self-compassion. We also provide evidence to indicate widespread gamma activity and connectivity to correlate with self-compassion as well as the critical role of the DLPFC in modulating theta activity and negative emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Luo
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China,Key Laboratory of Brain Cognition and Educational Science, Ministry of Education; Centre for Studies of Psychological Applications; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science; School of Psychology, South China Normal University
| | - Xianwei Che
- Centre for Cognition and Brain Disorders, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China,TMS Centre, Deqing Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Li
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China,Key Laboratory of Brain Cognition and Educational Science, Ministry of Education; Centre for Studies of Psychological Applications; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science; School of Psychology, South China Normal University,Institute for Brain and Psychological Sciences, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China,Corresponding author.
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21
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Zagkas D, Bacopoulou F, Vlachakis D, Chrousos GP, Darviri C. How Does Meditation Affect the Default Mode Network: A Systematic Review. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1425:229-245. [PMID: 37581797 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-31986-0_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a systematic review of studies evaluating the effect of meditation on the Default Mode Network (DMN). The review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was conducted up to June 2020. Search terms included default mode network or DMN and meditation.A total of 306 articles were identified, of which 16 controlled trials with a total of 853 experienced (in Mindfulness, Samatha, Raja Yoga, Transcendental Meditation, Vipassana, Insight meditation Theravada tradition) and non-experienced mediators were finally included in this systematic review. The results showed that meditative interventions affect the operation of DMN and there are differences in functional connectivity between networks. Further research should be undertaken to establish meditation as an effective intervention strategy for well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Zagkas
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Flora Bacopoulou
- Center for Adolescent Medicine and UNESCO Chair in Adolescent Health Care, First Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece.
| | - Dimitrios Vlachakis
- Laboratory of Genetics, Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George P Chrousos
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health & Precision Medicine, Athens, Greece
- UNESCO Chair in Adolescent Health Care, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Darviri
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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22
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Stalmeier TDM, Lubbers J, Cladder-Micus MB, Hanssen I, Huijbers MJ, Speckens AEM, Geurts DEM. Mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT) reduces depression-related self-referential processing in patients with bipolar disorder: an exploratory task-based study. Cogn Emot 2022; 36:1255-1272. [PMID: 35916755 DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2022.2105308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Negative self-referential processing has fruitfully been studied in unipolar depressed patients, but remarkably less in patients with bipolar disorder (BD). This exploratory study examines the relation between task-based self-referential processing and depressive symptoms in BD and their possible importance to the working mechanism of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for BD. The study population consisted of a subsample of patients with BD (n = 49) participating in an RCT of MBCT for BD, who were assigned to MBCT + TAU (n = 23) or treatment as usual (TAU) (n = 26). Patients performed the self-referential encoding task (SRET), which measures (1) positive and (2) negative attributions to oneself as well as (3) negative self-referential memory bias, before and after MBCT + TAU or TAU. At baseline, all three SRET measures were significantly related to depressive symptoms in patients with BD. Moreover, repeated measures analyses of variance revealed that negative self-referential memory bias diminished over time in the MBCT + TAU group, compared with the TAU group. Given the preliminary nature of our findings, future research should explore the possibly mediating role of reducing negative self-referential memory bias in preventing and treating depressive symptoms in BD through MBCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalia D M Stalmeier
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jelle Lubbers
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Depression Expertise Centre, Pro Persona Mental Health Care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mira B Cladder-Micus
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Depression Expertise Centre, Pro Persona Mental Health Care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Imke Hanssen
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes J Huijbers
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne E M Speckens
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk E M Geurts
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Mindfulness, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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23
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Cai ZZ, Lin R, Wang XX, Yan YJ, Li H. Effects of mindfulness in patients with mild cognitive impairment with insomnia: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Geriatr Nurs 2022; 47:239-246. [PMID: 36027785 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Current research on the effects of mindfulness therapy on MCI and insomnia has been inconsistent. It is still a hot topic of research and discussion. This study aimed to improve the sleep quality, cognition, and mental state of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) with insomnia. METHODS A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Seventy-five patients who met the eligibility criteria were randomly assigned to the mindfulness (n = 38) or health education (n = 37) treatment group. The primary outcomes were sleep, measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory, and cognition, measured by The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mini-Mental State Examination. Secondary outcomes included insomnia, measured by the Insomnia Severity Index, depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. EEG signals were collected at rest with eyes closed in the mindfulness state. The power spectrum was analyzed from these data. RESULTS Cognitive function and sleep quality were significantly improved in the mindfulness group (95% confidence interval 0.04 - 0.05, 0.03 - 0.04, -5.58 - -1.55, respectively). Anxiety and perceived stress scores were significantly lower than those in the control group (95% confidence interval 0.002 - 0.004, 0.009 - 0.013, respectively). The power spectrum differences in δ, θ, β, and γ bands were significant between the rest and mindfulness states (P < .05). Good safety was achieved in both groups with no deaths or serious adverse events. CONCLUSION Mindfulness improved sleep quality, cognitive function, and mentality of patients. Mindfulness practice caused deep relaxation in the brain and changes in electrical frequency bands associated with attention and cognitive tasks. Mindfulness learning can be performed successfully for individuals with MCI. Additionally, it is suitable for adoption in nursing homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Cai
- The School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Rong Lin
- Post-Doctoral Research Center, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Xia Wang
- The School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Jiao Yan
- The School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hong Li
- School of Nursing, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Department of Nursing, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China.
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Sharma B, Obeid J, DeMatteo C, Noseworthy MD, Timmons BW. Exploring the relationship between resting state intra-network connectivity and accelerometer-measured physical activity in pediatric concussion: A cohort study. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2022; 47:1014-1022. [PMID: 35858484 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2022-0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to explore the association between resting state functional connectivity and accelerometer-measured physical activity in pediatric concussion. Fourteen children with concussion (aged 14.54 ± 2.39 years, 8 female) were included in this secondary data analysis of a larger study. Participants had neuroimaging at 15.3 ± 6.7 days post-injury and subsequently a mean of 11.1 ± 5.0 days of accelerometer data. Intra-network connectivity of the default mode network (DMN), sensorimotor network (SMN), salience network (SN), and fronto-parietal network (FPN) was computed using resting state functional MRI. We found that per general linear models, only intra-network connectivity of the DMN was associated with physical activity levels. More specifically, increased intra-network connectivity of the DMN was significantly associated with higher levels of subsequent accelerometer-measured light physical activity (F(2, 11) = 7.053, p = 0.011, Ra2 = 0.562; β = 0.469), moderate physical activity (F(2, 11) = 7.053, p = 0.011, Ra2 = 0.562; β = 0.725), and vigorous physical activity (F(2, 11) = 10.855, p = 0.002, Ra2 = 0.664; β = 0.79). Intra-network connectivity of the DMN did not significantly predict sedentary time. Therefore, these preliminary findings suggest that there is a positive association between the intra-network connectivity of the DMN and device-measured physical activity in children with concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhanu Sharma
- McMaster University, 3710, Department of Pediatrics, Hamilton, Canada;
| | - Joyce Obeid
- McMaster University, Kinesiology, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada;
| | | | - Michael D Noseworthy
- McMaster University, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada;
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25
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Ken Tanaka G, Russell TA, Bittencourt J, Marinho V, Teixeira S, Hugo Bastos V, Gongora M, Ramim M, Budde H, Aprigio D, Fernando Basile L, Cagy M, Ribeiro P, Gupta DS, Velasques B. Open monitoring meditation alters the EEG gamma coherence in experts meditators: The expert practice exhibit greater right intra-hemispheric functional coupling. Conscious Cogn 2022; 102:103354. [PMID: 35636352 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2022.103354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study investigated the differences in frontoparietal EEG gamma coherence between expert meditators (EM) and naïve meditators (NM). MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a cross-sectional study with a sample of twenty-one healthy adults divided under two groups (experts meditators vs. naive-meditators), with analyzing the intra-hemispheric coherence of frontoparietal gamma oscillations by electroencephalography during the study steps: EEG resting-state 1, during the open presence meditation practice, and EEG resting-state 2. RESULTS The findings demonstrated greater frontoparietal EEG coherence in gamma for experts meditators in the Fp1-P3, F4-P4, F8-P4 electrode pairs during rest 1 and rest 2 (p ≤ 0.0083). In addition, we evidenced differences in the frontoparietal EEG coherence for expert meditators in F4-P4, F8-P4 during the meditation (p ≤ 0.0083). CONCLUSION Our results can support evidence that the connectivity of the right frontoparietal network acts as a biomarker of the enhanced Open monitoring meditation training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guaraci Ken Tanaka
- Brain Mapping and Sensory Motor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Institute of Applied Neuroscience, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Mente Aberta, Brazilian Center for Mindfulness and Health Promotion, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tamara A Russell
- Neuroimaging Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience of King's College, London, UK
| | - Juliana Bittencourt
- Institute of Applied Neuroscience, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Veiga de Almeida University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Victor Marinho
- Neuro-innovation Technology & Brain Mapping Laboratory, Federal University of Delta do Parnaíba, Parnaíba, Brazil.
| | - Silmar Teixeira
- Neuro-innovation Technology & Brain Mapping Laboratory, Federal University of Delta do Parnaíba, Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo Bastos
- Brain Mapping and Functionality Laboratory, Federal University of Delta do Parnaíba, Brazil
| | - Mariana Gongora
- Brain Mapping and Sensory Motor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maria Ramim
- Brain Mapping and Sensory Motor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Institute of Applied Neuroscience, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Henning Budde
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Danielle Aprigio
- Brain Mapping and Sensory Motor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Institute of Applied Neuroscience, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Mauricio Cagy
- Biomedical Engineering Program, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pedro Ribeiro
- Brain Mapping and Sensory Motor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Institute of Applied Neuroscience, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Bioscience Department, School of Physical Education of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Daya S Gupta
- College of Science and Humanities, College of Health and Pharmacy, Husson University, Bangor, USA
| | - Bruna Velasques
- Brain Mapping and Sensory Motor Integration Laboratory, Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Institute of Applied Neuroscience, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Bioscience Department, School of Physical Education of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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26
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Kmiecik MJ, Tu FF, Silton RL, Dillane KE, Roth GE, Harte SE, Hellman KM. Cortical mechanisms of visual hypersensitivity in women at risk for chronic pelvic pain. Pain 2022; 163:1035-1048. [PMID: 34510138 PMCID: PMC8882209 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Increased sensory sensitivity across non-nociceptive modalities is a common symptom of chronic pain conditions and is associated with chronic pain development. Providing a better understanding of the brain-behavior relationships that underlie multimodal hypersensitivity (MMH) may clarify the role of MMH in the development of chronic pain. We studied sensory hypersensitivity in a cohort of women (n = 147) who had diary confirmation of menstrual status and were enriched with risk factors for chronic pelvic pain, such as dysmenorrhea and increased bladder sensitivity. We administered 2 experimental tasks to evaluate the cross-modal relationship between visual and visceral sensitivity. Visual sensitivity was probed by presenting participants with a periodic pattern-reversal checkerboard stimulus presented across 5 brightness intensities during electroencephalography recording. Self-reported visual unpleasantness ratings for each brightness intensity were simultaneously assessed. Visceral sensitivity was evaluated with an experimental bladder-filling task associated with early clinical symptoms of chronic pelvic pain. Visually evoked cortical activity increased with brightness intensity across the entire scalp, especially at occipital electrode sites. Visual stimulation-induced unpleasantness was associated with provoked bladder pain and evoked primary visual cortex activity. However, the relationship between unpleasantness and cortical activity was moderated by provoked bladder pain. These results demonstrate that activity in the primary visual cortex is not greater in individuals with greater visceral sensitivity. We hypothesize that downstream interpretation or integration of this signal is amplified in individuals with visceral hypersensitivity. Future studies aimed at reducing MMH in chronic pain conditions should prioritize targeting of cortical mechanisms responsible for aberrant downstream sensory integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Kmiecik
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
- Department of Ob/Gyn, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Frank F. Tu
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
- Department of Ob/Gyn, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Rebecca L. Silton
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Katlyn E. Dillane
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Genevieve E. Roth
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Steven E. Harte
- Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kevin M. Hellman
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
- Department of Ob/Gyn, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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27
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Paoletti P, Leshem R, Pellegrino M, Ben-Soussan TD. Tackling the Electro-Topography of the Selves Through the Sphere Model of Consciousness. Front Psychol 2022; 13:836290. [PMID: 35664179 PMCID: PMC9161303 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.836290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the current hypothesis paper, we propose a novel examination of consciousness and self-awareness through the neuro-phenomenological theoretical model known as the Sphere Model of Consciousness (SMC). Our aim is to create a practical instrument to address several methodological issues in consciousness research. We present a preliminary attempt to validate the SMC via a simplified electrophysiological topographic map of the Self. This map depicts the gradual shift from faster to slower frequency bands that appears to mirror the dynamic between the various SMC states of Self. In order to explore our hypothesis that the SMC's different states of Self correspond to specific frequency bands, we present a mini-review of studies examining the electrophysiological activity that occurs within the different states of Self and in the context of specific meditation types. The theoretical argument presented here is that the SMC's hierarchical organization of three states of the Self mirrors the hierarchical organization of Focused Attention, Open Monitoring, and Non-Dual meditation types. This is followed by testable predictions and potential applications of the SMC and the hypotheses derived from it. To our knowledge, this is the first integrated electrophysiological account that combines types of Self and meditation practices. We suggest this electro-topographic framework of the Selves enables easier, clearer conceptualization of the connections between meditation types as well as increased understanding of wakefulness states and altered states of consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizio Paoletti
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy
| | - Rotem Leshem
- Department of Criminology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Michele Pellegrino
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation, Assisi, Italy
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28
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Sobhani V, Manshadi Mokari E, Aghajani J, Hatef B. Islamic praying changes stress-related hormones and genes. J Med Life 2022; 15:483-488. [PMID: 35646186 PMCID: PMC9126458 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2021-0167] [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: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Islamic praying (Namaz) can be considered a mental, spiritual, and physical practice. The study aimed to investigate the early effect of Namaz on stress-related hormones and the expression of stress-induced genes such as IL6 and BDNF. Eighty-three healthy women and men who continually practice Namaz participated in the study. The saliva samples were taken before and after Namaz to measure cortisol and alpha-amylase hormone levels. Also, to evaluate the expression of BDNF and IL6 genes, 11 specimens were selected randomly. Based on baseline sampling, the participants were classified into three groups: cortisol levels lower than 5, between 5-15, and upper than 15 ng/ml. The results indicated that cortisol significantly increased and decreased in the first and third groups after Namaz, respectively. In addition, the increase of alpha-amylase also occurred in subjects with a low baseline level of its concentration. Regarding genetic expression examination, there was a significant decrease in BDNF gene expression after the Namaz. In addition, the change of cortisol and alpha-amylase hormones after Namaz related to the baseline level changed to approach the optimal range after Namaz. These findings were reported for the first time and need more studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Sobhani
- Exercise Physiology Research Center, Lifestyle Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Manshadi Mokari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Aghajani
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Marvdasht, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Boshra Hatef
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding Author: Boshra Hatef, Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. E-mail:
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29
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Guo X, Wang M, Wang X, Guo M, Xue T, Wang Z, Li H, Xu T, He B, Cui D, Tong S. Progressive Increase of High-Frequency EEG Oscillations during Meditation is Associated with its Trait Effects on Heart Rate and Proteomics: A Study on the Tibetan Buddhist. Cereb Cortex 2021; 32:3865-3877. [PMID: 34974617 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Meditation has been a spiritual and healing practice in the East for thousands of years. However, the neurophysiologic mechanisms underlying its traditional form remain unclear. In this study, we recruited a large sample of monks (n = 73) who practice Tibetan Buddhist meditation and compared with meditation-naive local controls (n = 30). Their electroencephalography (EEG) and electrocardiogram signals were simultaneously recorded and blood samples were collected to investigate the integrative effects of Tibetan Buddhist on brain, heart, and proteomics. We found that the EEG activities in monks shifted to a higher frequency from resting to meditation. Meditation starts with decrease of the (pre)frontal delta activity and increase of the (pre)frontal high beta and gamma activity; while at the deep meditative state, the posterior high-frequency activity was also increased, and could be specified as a biomarker for the deep meditation. The state increase of posterior high-frequency EEG activity was significantly correlated with the trait effects on heart rate and nueropilin-1 in monks, with the source of brain-heart correlation mainly locating in the attention and emotion networks. Our study revealed that the effects of Tibetan Buddhist meditation on brain, heart, and proteomics were highly correlated, demonstrating meditation as an integrative body-mind training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Guo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meiyun Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Menglin Guo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Xue
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuo Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Li
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianjiao Xu
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, USA.,Center for Neuroscience Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Donghong Cui
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanbao Tong
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Med-X Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Leppanen ML, Kim K. Absorption and Mindfulness Reflect Distinct Patterns of Attentional Control and Self-Related Processing. JOURNAL OF INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.1027/1614-0001/a000360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. Absorption and mindfulness are personality traits associated with experiencing states of highly-focused attention. Despite this apparent commonality, these two traits have rarely been directly compared, and little is known about what differentiates absorbed from mindful states. The present study explored how individual differences in the cognitive processes of attentional control and self-related processing relate to absorption and mindfulness. Participants completed four self-report measures assessing absorption, mindfulness, style of attentional control over internal/external stimuli, and self-related processing. Absorption and mindfulness were negatively correlated in our sample. Absorption was predicted by a propensity for stimulus-driven attention to external stimuli and frequent engagement in self-reflection without gaining insight into those reflections. Mindfulness was predicted by a propensity for goal-driven attentional control over external stimuli and a tendency to engage in insightful self-reflective processing. Our findings can inform research efforts to further elucidate cognitive mechanisms underlying the relationships of absorption and mindfulness with mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyungmi Kim
- Department of Psychology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT, USA
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31
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Poulin MJ, Ministero LM, Gabriel S, Morrison CD, Naidu E. Minding Your Own Business? Mindfulness Decreases Prosocial Behavior for People With Independent Self-Construals. Psychol Sci 2021; 32:1699-1708. [PMID: 34705576 DOI: 10.1177/09567976211015184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mindfulness appears to promote individual well-being, but its interpersonal effects are less clear. Two studies in adult populations tested whether the effects of mindfulness on prosocial behavior differ according to individuals' self-construals. In Study 1 (N = 366), a brief mindfulness induction, compared with a meditation control condition, led to decreased prosocial behavior among people with relatively independent self-construals but had the opposite effect among those with relatively interdependent self-construals. In Study 2 (N = 325), a mindfulness induction led to decreased prosocial behavior among people primed with independence but had the opposite effect among those primed with interdependence. The effects of mindfulness on prosocial behavior appear to depend on individuals' broader social goals. This may have implications for the increasing popularity of mindfulness training around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Poulin
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
| | | | - Shira Gabriel
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
| | - C Dale Morrison
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
| | - Esha Naidu
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
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32
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Aguerre NV, Gómez-Ariza CJ, Ibáñez-Molina AJ, Bajo MT. Electrophysiological Prints of Grit. Front Psychol 2021; 12:730172. [PMID: 34721192 PMCID: PMC8551368 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.730172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
While scientific interest in understanding the grit trait has grown exponentially in recent years, one important gap in the grit literature relates to its biological and neural substrate. In the present study, we adopted a hypotheses-driven approach in a large sample of young adults (N = 120) with diverse educational backgrounds and work experiences in order to investigate the electrophysiological correlates of grit both during rest and while performing a learning task. Additionally, we selected a measure of impulsiveness to better understand the neural similarities and differences between grit and related self-control constructs. Based on previous work that implicated the prefrontal cortex in grit, we hypothesized that high grit participants would have lower frontal theta/beta ratio (a broadly used index that reflects prefrontally-mediated top-down processes, which might indicate better control over subcortical information). Furthermore, we expected the perseverance of effort facet of grit to be linked to higher complexity during task engagement because previous research has shown complexity indexes (entropy and fractal dimension) to be linked to effort while performing cognitive tasks. Our results revealed that although there were no differences at rest as a function of grit, the participants with high grit and high consistency of interest scores exhibited lower frontal theta/beta ratios during the learning task. This pattern suggests that individual differences in grit might be more evident when top-down control processes are at work. Furthermore, there was a positive association between perseverance of effort and entropy at task, which might indicate more effort and engagement in the task. Finally, no association was found between the neural indexes (frontal theta/beta ratio, entropy, or fractal dimension) and impulsiveness, neither impulsiveness mediated between grit and brain measures. Finally, when controlling for impulsiveness and demographic variables (gender, age, education, and work experience) the effects at the facet level remained statistically significant. While there is still a long way to fully understand the neural mechanisms of grit, the present work constitutes a step toward unveiling the electrophysiological prints of grit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria V. Aguerre
- Department of Experimental Psychology—Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | | | - M. Teresa Bajo
- Department of Experimental Psychology—Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Matiz A, Crescentini C, Bergamasco M, Budai R, Fabbro F. Inter-brain co-activations during mindfulness meditation. Implications for devotional and clinical settings. Conscious Cogn 2021; 95:103210. [PMID: 34562699 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2021.103210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mindfulness meditation usually takes place as personal, introspective activity. It is not known if this practice activates the brain differently when done alone or with someone else. Sixteen couples of expert meditators performed mindfulness-oriented meditation (MOM) and instructed mind-wandering (IMW) tasks in two conditions: once sitting in the same room (SR) and once in two different rooms (DR). Spontaneous electroencephalographic (EEG) data was collected during 7-minute recording sessions in the four experimental settings (MOM/SR, MOM/DR, IMW/SR, IMW/DR). Power in band was computed in separate clusters of independent components of the EEG signals. In addition to significant task effects, found in frontolimbic (MOM > IMW in gamma) and frontoparietal locations (MOM < IMW in theta), significant condition effects were found in frontal (SR > DR in delta) and in temporo-occipital regions (SR > DR in theta and alpha). Moreover, a significant interaction between task and condition revealed higher gamma activity in limbic areas during MOM/SR vs. MOM/DR settings. This effect was not attributable to gender, age nor the meditation expertise of participants. We thus show that the brains of two people work differently when they are doing something together or alone; some of these differences are specific to mindfulness meditation. Implications for devotional and clinical settings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Matiz
- Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy; Perceptual Robotics (PERCRO) Laboratory, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Cristiano Crescentini
- Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.
| | - Massimo Bergamasco
- Perceptual Robotics (PERCRO) Laboratory, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Budai
- Department of Neuroscience, University-Hospital "S. Maria della Misericordia", Udine, Italy.
| | - Franco Fabbro
- Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy; Perceptual Robotics (PERCRO) Laboratory, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.
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The Impact of Mindfulness Meditation on the Wandering Mind: a Systematic Review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:313-330. [PMID: 34560133 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Through the practice of Mindfulness Meditation (MM), meditators become familiar with the observation of ongoing spontaneous thoughts, while maintaining an attitude of openness and equanimity. The aim of this systematic review is to present a synthesis of available findings of the short and long-term effects of MM on mind wandering (MW). We included studies that considered both first-person and behavioral/physiological measures of MW. The search resulted in 2035 papers, 24 of which were eligible. Reviewed studies revealed a high heterogeneity in designs, outcome measures and interventions. Most of the pre-post intervention studies showed that a protracted practice of MM (at least 2 weeks) reduced MW, limiting its negative effects on different cognitive tasks. Cross-sectional studies highlighted differences between expert meditators and naïve individuals: meditators self-reported less MW and showed decreased Default Mode Network activity, during meditation and resting-state. Further studies are needed to replicate available findings and to more deeply explore how MW is influenced by meditation, also considering its qualitative characteristics that remain largely unexplored.
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35
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Knierim MT, Berger C, Reali P. Open-source concealed EEG data collection for Brain-computer-interfaces - neural observation through OpenBCI amplifiers with around-the-ear cEEGrid electrodes. BRAIN-COMPUTER INTERFACES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/2326263x.2021.1972633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Thomas Knierim
- Institute of Information Systems and Marketing (IISM, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Christoph Berger
- Institute of Information Systems and Marketing (IISM, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Pierluigi Reali
- Department of Electronics, Information, and Bioengineering, Politecnico Di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Walla P, Northoff G, Herbert C. The Human Self Has Two Serial Aspects and Is Dynamic: A Concept Based on Neurophysiological Evidence Supporting a Multiple Aspects Self Theory (MAST). Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11070611. [PMID: 34202700 PMCID: PMC8306170 DOI: 10.3390/life11070611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The self is an increasingly central topic in current neuroscience. Understanding the neural processes that are involved in self-referential processing and functioning may also be crucial to understanding consciousness. The current short communication goes beyond the typical concept that the self is singular, as has been assumed from neuroanatomical descriptions of the self by fMRI and PET studies. Long ago, theoretically, the idea of multiple aspects of the human self-arose, highlighting a dynamic organizational structure, but an increasing number of electrophysiological brain imaging studies, searching for the temporal dynamics of self-referential brain processes, now has empirical evidence supporting their existence. This short communication focuses on the theoretical idea of a dynamic self and provides first preliminary empirical evidence, including results from own studies of the authors, in support of, and highlights the serial dynamics of the human self, suggesting a primitive Me1 and an elaborate Me2 (a non-personal and a personal self). By focusing on the temporal dimension of the self, we propose that multiple aspects of the self can be distinguished based on their temporal sequence. A multiple aspects Self Theory (MAST) is proposed. This model is meant as a theoretical framework for future studies providing further support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Walla
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, Freudplatz 1, 1020 Vienna, Austria
- Faculty of Medicine, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, Freudplatz 3, 1020 Vienna, Austria
- Centre for Translational Neuroscience and Mental Health Research, School of Psychology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Georg Northoff
- Mind, Brain Imaging and Neuroethics, Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada;
| | - Cornelia Herbert
- Department of Applied Emotion and Motivation Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
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Fu H, Garrett B, Tao G, Cordingley E, Ofoghi Z, Taverner T, Sun C, Cheung T. Virtual Reality-Guided Meditation for Chronic Pain in Patients With Cancer: Exploratory Analysis of Electroencephalograph Activity. JMIR BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2021; 6:e26332. [PMID: 38907380 PMCID: PMC11135186 DOI: 10.2196/26332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mindfulness-based stress reduction has demonstrated some efficacy for chronic pain management. More recently, virtual reality (VR)-guided meditation has been used to assist mindfulness-based stress reduction. Although studies have also found electroencephalograph (EEG) changes in the brain during mindfulness meditation practices, such changes have not been demonstrated during VR-guided meditation. OBJECTIVE This exploratory study is designed to explore the potential for recording and analyzing EEG during VR experiences in terms of the power of EEG waveforms, topographic mapping, and coherence. We examine how these measures changed during a VR-guided meditation experience in participants with cancer-related chronic pain. METHODS A total of 10 adult patients with chronic cancer pain underwent a VR-guided meditation experience while EEG signals were recorded during the session using a BioSemi ActiveTwo system (64 channels, standard 10-20 configuration). The EEG recording session consisted of an 8-minute resting condition (pre), a 30-minute sequence of 3 VR-guided meditation conditions (med), and a final rest condition (post). Power spectral density (PSD) was compared between each condition using a cluster-based permutation test and across conditions using multivariate analysis of variance. A topographic analysis, including coherence exploration, was performed. In addition, an exploratory repeated measures correlation was used to examine possible associations between pain scores and EEG signal power. RESULTS The predominant pattern was for increased β and γ bandwidth power in the meditation condition (P<.025), compared with both the baseline and postexperience conditions. Increased power in the δ bandwidth was evident, although not statistically significant. The pre versus post comparison also showed changes in the θ and α bands (P=.02) located around the frontal, central, and parietal cortices. Across conditions, multivariate analysis of variance tests identified 4 clusters with significant (P<.05) PSD differences in the δ, θ, β, and γ bands located around the frontal, central, and parietal cortices. Topographically, 5 peak channels were identified: AF7, FP2, FC1, CP5, and P5, and verified the changes in power in the different brain regions. Coherence changes were observed primarily between the frontal, parietal, and occipital regions in the θ, α, and γ bands (P<.0025). No significant associations were observed between pain scores and EEG PSD. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the feasibility of EEG recording in exploring neurophysiological changes in brain activity during VR-guided meditation and its effect on pain reduction. These findings suggest that distinct altered neurophysiological brain signals are detectable during VR-guided meditation. However, these changes were not necessarily associated with pain. These exploratory findings may guide further studies to investigate the highlighted regions and EEG bands with respect to VR-guided meditation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00102401; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00102401.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Fu
- School of Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Bernie Garrett
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gordon Tao
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elliott Cordingley
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Zahra Ofoghi
- School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Simon Fraser University, Surrey, BC, Canada
| | - Tarnia Taverner
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Crystal Sun
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Teresa Cheung
- School of Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- Surrey Memorial Hospital, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, BC, Canada
- Behavioural and Cognitive Neuroscience Institute, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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38
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Wei PH, Chen H, Ye Q, Zhao H, Xu Y, Bai F. Self-reference Network-Related Interactions During the Process of Cognitive Impairment in the Early Stages of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:666437. [PMID: 33841130 PMCID: PMC8024683 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.666437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Normal establishment of cognition occurs after forming a sensation to stimuli from internal or external cues, in which self-reference processing may be partially involved. However, self-reference processing has been less studied in the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) field within the self-reference network (SRN) and has instead been investigated within the default-mode network (DMN). Differences between these networks have been proven in the last decade, while ultra-early diagnoses have increased. Therefore, investigation of the altered pattern of SRN is significantly important, especially in the early stages of AD. Methods: A total of 65 individuals, including 43 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 22 cognitively normal individuals, participated in this study. The SRN, dorsal attention network (DAN), and salience network (SN) were constructed with resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and voxel-based analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to explore significant regions of network interactions. Finally, the correlation between the network interactions and clinical characteristics was analyzed. Results: We discovered four interactions among the three networks, with the SRN showing different distributions in the left and right hemispheres from the DAN and SN and modulated interactions between them. Group differences in the interactions that were impaired in MCI patients indicated that the degree of damage was most severe in the SRN, least severe in the SN, and intermediate in the DAN. The two SRN-related interactions showed positive effects on the executive and memory performances of MCI patients with no overlap with the clinical assessments performed in this study. Conclusion: This study is the first and primary evidence of SRN interactions related to MCI patients’ functional performance. The influence of the SRN in the ultra-early stages of AD is nonnegligible. There are still many unknowns regarding the contribution of the SRN in AD progression, and we strongly recommend future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Hsuan Wei
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School and The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute of Brain Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haifeng Chen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School and The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute of Brain Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Province Stroke Center for Diagnosis and Therapy, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Neuropsychiatry Clinic Medical Center, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing Ye
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School and The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute of Brain Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Province Stroke Center for Diagnosis and Therapy, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Neuropsychiatry Clinic Medical Center, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School and The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute of Brain Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Province Stroke Center for Diagnosis and Therapy, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Neuropsychiatry Clinic Medical Center, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School and The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute of Brain Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Province Stroke Center for Diagnosis and Therapy, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Neuropsychiatry Clinic Medical Center, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Bai
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School and The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Institute of Brain Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Province Stroke Center for Diagnosis and Therapy, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Neuropsychiatry Clinic Medical Center, Nanjing, China
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Huels ER, Kim H, Lee U, Bel-Bahar T, Colmenero AV, Nelson A, Blain-Moraes S, Mashour GA, Harris RE. Neural Correlates of the Shamanic State of Consciousness. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:610466. [PMID: 33815077 PMCID: PMC8012721 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.610466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychedelics have been recognized as model interventions for studying altered states of consciousness. However, few empirical studies of the shamanic state of consciousness, which is anecdotally similar to the psychedelic state, exist. We investigated the neural correlates of shamanic trance using high-density electroencephalography (EEG) in 24 shamanic practitioners and 24 healthy controls during rest, shamanic drumming, and classical music listening, followed by an assessment of altered states of consciousness. EEG data were used to assess changes in absolute power, connectivity, signal diversity, and criticality, which were correlated with assessment measures. We also compared assessment scores to those of individuals in a previous study under the influence of psychedelics. Shamanic practitioners were significantly different from controls in several domains of altered states of consciousness, with scores comparable to or exceeding that of healthy volunteers under the influence of psychedelics. Practitioners also displayed increased gamma power during drumming that positively correlated with elementary visual alterations. Furthermore, shamanic practitioners had decreased low alpha and increased low beta connectivity during drumming and classical music and decreased neural signal diversity in the gamma band during drumming that inversely correlated with insightfulness. Finally, criticality in practitioners was increased during drumming in the low and high beta and gamma bands, with increases in the low beta band correlating with complex imagery and elementary visual alterations. These findings suggest that psychedelic drug-induced and non-pharmacologic alterations in consciousness have overlapping phenomenal traits but are distinct states of consciousness, as reflected by the unique brain-related changes during shamanic trance compared to previous literature investigating the psychedelic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R. Huels
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hyoungkyu Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - UnCheol Lee
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Tarik Bel-Bahar
- Division of Translational Epidemiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States
| | - Angelo V. Colmenero
- The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Amanda Nelson
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stefanie Blain-Moraes
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - George A. Mashour
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Richard E. Harris
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Payne JE, Chambers R, Liknaitzky P. Combining Psychedelic and Mindfulness Interventions: Synergies to Inform Clinical Practice. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:416-423. [PMID: 33860171 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelic and mindfulness interventions have been shown to improve mental ill-health and wellbeing, with a range of clinical processes and effects in common. However, each appear to contain specific challenges in the context of mental health treatment. In this Perspective, we focus on a set of distinct affordances, "useful differences", within psychedelic and mindfulness interventions that might address common challenges within the other intervention. Accordingly, we propose a set of applied synergies, indicating specific ways in which these two promising interventions might be combined for greater benefit. Metaphorically, on the journey toward mental health and wellbeing, we propose that psychedelic treatments may serve the role of Compass (initiating, motivating, and steering the course of mindfulness practice), with mindfulness interventions serving the role of Vehicle (integrating, deepening, generalizing, and maintaining the novel perspectives and motivation instigated by psychedelic experience). We outline a set of testable hypotheses and future research associated with the synergistic action of psychedelic and mindfulness interventions toward improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake E Payne
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria 3122, Australia
| | - Richard Chambers
- Mindfulness Programs, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Paul Liknaitzky
- Turner Institute, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
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41
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Kora P, Meenakshi K, Swaraja K, Rajani A, Raju MS. EEG based interpretation of human brain activity during yoga and meditation using machine learning: A systematic review. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2021; 43:101329. [PMID: 33618287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2021.101329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present investigation is to study the impact of yoga and meditation on Brain waves concerning physical and mental health. There are mainly three stages (steps) in the brain wave classification:(i) preprocessing, ii) feature extraction, and iii) classification. This work provides a review of interpretation methods of Brain signals (Electroencephalogram (EEG)) EEG during yoga and meditation. Past research has revealed significant mental and physical advantages with yoga and meditation. METHODS The research topic reviewed focused on the machine learning strategies applied for the interpretation of brain waves. In addressing the research questions highlighted earlier in the general introduction, we conducted a systematic search of articles from targeted scientific and journal online databases that included PubMed, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore Digital Library (IEEE), and Arxiv databases based on their relevance to the research questions and domain topic. The survey topic is relatively nascent, and therefore, the scope of the search period was limited to the 20-year timeline that was deemed representative of the research topic under investigation. The literature search was based on the keywords "EEG", "yoga*" and "meditation*". The key phrases were concatenated using Boolean expressions and applied to search through the selected online databases yielding a total of 120 articles. The online databases were selected based on the relevancy of content with the research title, research questions, and the domain application. The literature review search, process, and classification were carefully conducted guided by two defined measures; 1.) Inclusion criteria; and 2.) Exclusion criteria. These measures define the criteria for searching and extracting relevant articles relating to the research title and domain of interest. RESULTS Our literature search and review indicate a broad spectrum of neural mechanics under a variety of meditation styles have been investigated. A detailed analysis of various mental states using Zen, CHAN, mindfulness, TM, Rajayoga, Kundalini, Yoga, and other meditation styles have been described by means of EEG bands. Classification of mental states using KNN, SVM, Random forest, Fuzzy logic, neural networks, Convolutional Neural Networks has been described. Superior research is still required to classify the EEG signatures corresponding to different mental states. CONCLUSIONS Yoga practice may be an effective adjunctive treatment for a clinical and aging population. Advanced research can examine the effects of specific branches of yoga on a designated clinical grouping. Yoga and meditation increased overall healthy brain activity.
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42
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Positive schizotypy and the experience of creativity: The distinctive roles of suspiciousness and dispositional mindfulness. Schizophr Res 2021; 228:151-158. [PMID: 33444933 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Positive schizotypy has been shown to predict emergence of schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, with suspiciousness/paranoia regarded a key risk factor. However, magical thinking and unusual perceptual experiences, other aspects of positive schizotypy, are associated with creativity. We investigated whether suspiciousness attenuates the relationship of magical thinking and unusual experiences with creative experience, and explored the interaction of dispositional mindfulness with positive schizotypy and creative experience. 342 (256 females) healthy adults (mean age: 25.9; SD 8.4) completed online self-report measures of schizotypy, creative experience, and dispositional mindfulness. Moderation analysis showed that suspiciousness attenuated the positive relationship of magical thinking (b = -0.29, p = .03) and unusual perceptual experiences (b = -0.23, p = .01) with an aspect of creative experience related to positive affect - power/pleasure. This effect was not present for 4 other aspects of creative experience. Multiple linear regressions revealed higher dispositional mindfulness to interact with aspects of positive schizotypy associated with heightened creative experience of power/pleasure (b = 0.06, p = .03), clarity/preparation (b = 0.03, p = .004), and differing levels of anxiety associated with creative engagement (b = -0.06, p = .003; b = 0.03, p = .047). Higher dispositional mindfulness was also associated with lower suspiciousness (rs = -0.33, p < .001). The study highlights the importance of considering the role of suspiciousness/paranoia when investigating the relationship between positive schizotypy and creativity. The findings provide support for the application of mindfulness-based interventions for mitigating psychosis-risk associated with suspiciousness, whilst supporting the otherwise favourable association of positive schizotypy with creativity.
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43
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Kmiecik MJ, Tu FF, Silton RL, Dillane KE, Roth GE, Harte SE, Hellman KM. Cortical Mechanisms of Visual Hypersensitivity in Women at Risk for Chronic Pelvic Pain. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021. [PMID: 33501463 PMCID: PMC7836135 DOI: 10.1101/2020.12.03.20242032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Multisensory hypersensitivity (MSH), which refers to persistent discomfort across sensory modalities, is a risk factor for chronic pain. Developing a better understanding of the neural contributions of disparate sensory systems to MSH may clarify its role in the development of chronic pain. We recruited a cohort of women (n=147) enriched with participants with menstrual pain at risk for developing chronic pain. Visual sensitivity was measured using a periodic pattern-reversal stimulus during EEG. Self-reported visual unpleasantness ratings were also recorded. Bladder pain sensitivity was evaluated with an experimental bladder-filling task associated with early clinical symptoms of chronic pelvic pain. Visual stimulation induced unpleasantness was associated with bladder pain and evoked primary visual cortex excitation; however, the relationship between unpleasantness and cortical excitation was moderated by bladder pain. Thus, future studies aimed at reversing the progression of MSH into chronic pain should prioritize targeting of cortical mechanisms responsible for maladaptive sensory input integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Kmiecik
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States.,Department of Ob/Gyn, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Frank F Tu
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States.,Department of Ob/Gyn, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Rebecca L Silton
- Department of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Katlyn E Dillane
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Genevieve E Roth
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Steven E Harte
- Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kevin M Hellman
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States.,Department of Ob/Gyn, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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He L, Han W, Shi Z. The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Negative Self-Representations in Social Anxiety Disorder-A Randomized Wait-List Controlled Trial. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:582333. [PMID: 34054590 PMCID: PMC8149603 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.582333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examines the impact of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) vs. wait list (WL) on the self-reference effect involving negative adjectives in individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD). Eighty-five participants with SAD were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of MBSR or WL and completed an incidental SRE task that assessed treatment-related negative self-representations. Self-related negative adjectives were worse remembered in MBSR than in WL, and other-related negative adjectives were better remembered in MBSR than in WL. No differences emerged between the levels of self- and other-related processing for adjectives in MBSR. Moreover, the MBSR-related decreases in the difference in recognition memory performance between self and other conditions, that is, the treatment-related equilibrium, could predict the MBSR-related decreases in social anxiety symptoms. The selfless functioning and self-other control that can provide reasonable interpretations for these findings were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liguo He
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Han
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhan Shi
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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45
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Campanelli S, Tort ABL, Lobão-Soares B. Pranayamas and Their Neurophysiological Effects. Int J Yoga 2020; 13:183-192. [PMID: 33343147 PMCID: PMC7735501 DOI: 10.4103/ijoy.ijoy_91_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The millenarian breathing exercises from Yoga, commonly called Pranayamas, are known to induce meditative states, reduce stress, and increase lung capacity. However, the physiological mechanisms by which these practices modulate the human nervous system still need to be unveiled. Objectives The aim of this work was to review studies describing the influence of breathing exercises on the brain/mind of humans. Methodology We reviewed articles written in English and published between 2008 and 2018. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were based on the PRISMA recommendations to filter articles from Science Direct, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library databases. Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome technique and Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews registration were also considered. Results From a total of 1588 articles, 14 attended the criteria. They were critically compared to each other and presented in a table divided into study; country; sample size; gender; age; objective; technique; outcome. Discussion In general, the 14 papers highlight the impact of yogic breathing techniques on emotional and cognitive performance. Conclusion In-depth studies focusing on specific aspects of the practices such as retentions, prolonged expiration, attention on fluid respiration, and abdominal/thoracic respiration should better elucidate the effects of Yogic Breathing Techniques (YBT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephany Campanelli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmachology, Centre of Biosciences, UFRN, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | | | - Bruno Lobão-Soares
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmachology, Centre of Biosciences, UFRN, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
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Kajimura S, Masuda N, Lau JKL, Murayama K. Focused attention meditation changes the boundary and configuration of functional networks in the brain. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18426. [PMID: 33116216 PMCID: PMC7595086 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75396-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Research has shown that focused attention meditation not only improves our cognitive and motivational functioning (e.g., attention, mental health), it influences the way our brain networks [e.g., default mode network (DMN), fronto-parietal network (FPN), and sensory-motor network (SMN)] function and operate. However, surprisingly little attention has been paid to the possibility that meditation alters the architecture (composition) of these functional brain networks. Here, using a single-case experimental design with intensive longitudinal data, we examined the effect of mediation practice on intra-individual changes in the composition of whole-brain networks. The results showed that meditation (1) changed the community size (with a number of regions in the FPN being merged into the DMN after meditation) and (2) led to instability in the community allegiance of the regions in the FPN. These results suggest that, in addition to altering specific functional connectivity, meditation leads to reconfiguration of whole-brain network architecture. The reconfiguration of community architecture in the brain provides fruitful information about the neural mechanisms of meditation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Kajimura
- Faculty of Information and Human Science, Kyoto Institute of Technology, 1, Matsugasakihashigami-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 606-8585, Japan.
| | - Naoki Masuda
- Department of Mathematics, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, USA
| | | | - Kou Murayama
- Department of Psychology, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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Glicksohn J, Ben-Soussan TD. Immersion, Absorption, and Spiritual Experience: Some Preliminary Findings. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2118. [PMID: 32982867 PMCID: PMC7492673 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many traditions have utilized silent environments to induce altered states of consciousness and spiritual experiences. Neurocognitive explorations of spiritual experience can aid in understanding the underlying mechanism, but these are surprisingly rare. We present the verbal report and the electroencephalographic (EEG) alpha profile of a female participant scoring a maximal 34 on the Absorption Scale, recorded before and while she was immersed in a whole-body perceptual deprivation (WBPD) tank. We analyze her trancelike experience in terms of the imagery reported: a spaceship, corridors, doors, a man dressed in white, speaking to God, the sun, supernova, concentric images, and an out-of-body experience. Her report is indicative of a spiritual experience, given that she felt that she was "meeting God" in the laboratory. She exhibited both frontal and parietal left > right alpha power asymmetry at baseline, whereas in the WBPD condition, there was a global increase in alpha power and especially a sharp increase in right-frontal alpha power. Her verbal report and EEG alpha profile were compared to those of another female participant, also scoring high on absorption, whose verbal report was also indicative of a trancelike experience. For further comparison, we present the data for two participants scoring low on absorption. Spiritual experience that can be verbalized might be associated with a marked increase in right-frontal alpha power, as reported here. In contrast, a mystical experience characterized by ineffability would be indicated by a marked increase in left-frontal alpha power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Glicksohn
- Department of Criminology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan
- Research Institute for Neuroscience, Education and Didactics, Patrizio Paoletti Foundation for Development and Communication, Assisi, Italy
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Berkovich-Ohana A, Dor-Ziderman Y, Trautwein FM, Schweitzer Y, Nave O, Fulder S, Ataria Y. The Hitchhiker's Guide to Neurophenomenology - The Case of Studying Self Boundaries With Meditators. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1680. [PMID: 32793056 PMCID: PMC7385412 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper is a practical guide to neurophenomenology. Varela's neurophenomenological research program (NRP) aspires to bridge the gap between, and integrate, first-person (1P) and third-person (3P) approaches to understanding the mind. It does so by suggesting a methodological framework allowing these two irreducible phenomenal domains to relate and reciprocally support the investigation of one another. While highly appealing theoretically, neurophenomenology invites researchers to a challenging methodological endeavor. Based on our experience with empirical neurophenomenological implementation, we offer practical clarifications and insights learnt along the way. In the first part of the paper, we outline the theoretical principles of the NRP and briefly present the field of 1P research. We speak to the importance of phenomenological training and outline the utility of cooperating with meditators as skilled participants. We suggest that 1P accounts of subjective experience can be placed on a complexity continuum ranging between thick and thin phenomenology, highlighting the tension and trade-off inherent to the neurophenomenological attempt to naturalize phenomenology. We then outline a typology of bridges, which create mutual constraints between 1P and 3P approaches, and argue for the utility of alternating between the bridges depending on the available experimental resources, domain of interest and level of sought articulation. In the second part of the paper, we demonstrate how the theory can be put into practice by describing a decade of neurophenomenological studies investigating the sense of self with increasing focus on its embodied, and minimal, aspects. These aspects are accessed via the dissolution of the sense-of-boundaries, shedding new light on the multi-dimensionality and flexibility of embodied selfhood. We emphasize the evolving neurophenomenological dialogue, showing how consecutive studies, placed differently on the thin-to-thick 1P continuum, advance the research project by using the bridging principles appropriate for each stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviva Berkovich-Ohana
- Department of Learning, Instruction and Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Counseling and Human Development, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yair Dor-Ziderman
- Department of Learning, Instruction and Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Counseling and Human Development, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Fynn-Mathis Trautwein
- Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Yoav Schweitzer
- Department of Learning, Instruction and Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Counseling and Human Development, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ohad Nave
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Yochai Ataria
- Department of Psychology, Tel-Hai Academic College, Tel Hai, Israel
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Shanok NA, Reive C, Mize KD, Jones NA. Mindfulness Meditation Intervention Alters Neurophysiological Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression in Preadolescents. J PSYCHOPHYSIOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1027/0269-8803/a000244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. Mindfulness meditation interventions (MMIs) are formal training programs which utilize mindfulness techniques to improve attentional control and reduce stress and anxiety. Past investigations have shown that mindfulness-based interventions are effective in improving symptoms of anxiety and depression in both adolescents and adults, making this a promising natural approach to treating mood disorders. The current study sought to examine the neurophysiological effects of a 10-week MMI, in a relatively unexplored age-range (7–10 years). The non-clinical participants demonstrated increases in interhemispheric alpha coherence, as well as increased theta, alpha, and beta power particularly in frontal and central areas; reflecting a lower neurological risk for anxiety development. However, two common measures linked to anxiety, frontal and posterior alpha asymmetry remained largely unchanged following the training period. Still, these preliminary results exemplify the potentially positive effects of mindfulness meditation on preadolescents; this time on neurophysiological functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel A. Shanok
- Developmental Neuroscience Lab, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Carol Reive
- Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Krystal D. Mize
- Developmental Neuroscience Lab, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Nancy Aaron Jones
- Developmental Neuroscience Lab, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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Taylor S. When Seconds Turn Into Minutes: Time Expansion Experiences in Altered States of Consciousness. JOURNAL OF HUMANISTIC PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/0022167820917484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Time Expansion Experiences (TEEs) occur when a person’s normal experience of time slows down or expands significantly. Previous research has associated them mainly with accidents but also with altered states of consciousness such as mystical experiences, psychedelic experiences, and near-death experiences. This article describes a qualitative study of 74 reports of “Time Expansion Experiences” (also a pilot study of 22 reports), which investigated the phenomenology of such experiences, using thematic analysis to highlight the main themes. The most common triggers of TEEs in the study were accidents (40 of 74), followed by spiritual states (12), and, then, psychedelic experiences and sports and games (both 7). Many participants commented on the dramatic nature of their TEEs, with themes of positive affective states (most notably calmness), alertness, the opportunity to take preventative action (related to very rapid cognition), and quietness. Interpretations of TEEs are discussed, arguing against the theory that they are an illusion created by recollection. TEEs are seen as a characteristic of altered states of consciousness, which occur when the normal self-system dissolves in exceptional circumstances. Human beings’ normal experience of time is a psychological construct, produced by the psychological structures and processes of the normal self-system.
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