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Kober SE, Wood G, Schuster S, Körner C. Do Miniature Eye Movements Affect Neurofeedback Training Performance? A Combined EEG-Eye Tracking Study. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2024; 49:313-327. [PMID: 38492124 PMCID: PMC11101551 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-024-09625-6] [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: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
EEG-based neurofeedback is a prominent method to modulate one's own brain activity in a desired direction. However, the EEG signal can be disturbed by artifacts, e.g., eye movements, which can consequently confound the neurofeedback performance. Involuntary miniature eye movements can be hardly detected by conventional EEG correction methods such as recording the electro-oculogram (EOG) and subtracting EOG activity from the EEG signal. However, such miniature eye movements can influence EEG activity, especially in the Gamma frequency range, enormously. In the present study, we investigated whether power in different EEG frequencies can be effectively modulated by self-control of brain signals during neurofeedback training and/or whether changes in EEG power are provoked by miniature eye movements during the training. To this end, 24 participants performed one session of SMR and one session of Gamma neurofeedback training. Additionally, in each training session sham feedback was performed. An eye tracker was used to detect miniature eye movements (< 1°) during neurofeedback training. About two thirds of the participants were able to increase their SMR power over the course of NF training, while one third was able to increase Gamma power. Generally, miniature eye movements induced a strong Gamma power increase. The number of eye movements also increased numerically over the course of the NF training. However, we did not find a significant relationship with the NF training performance. This is a first indication that miniature saccades do not affect NF training performance, but should not be neglected during NF training. Our results have to be confirmed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Erika Kober
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010, Graz, Austria.
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Guilherme Wood
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sarah Schuster
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Christof Körner
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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2
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Kleih SC, Botrel L. Post-stroke aphasia rehabilitation using an adapted visual P300 brain-computer interface training: improvement over time, but specificity remains undetermined. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1400336. [PMID: 38873652 PMCID: PMC11169643 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1400336] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of visual P300 brain-computer interface use to support rehabilitation of chronic language production deficits commonly experienced by individuals with a left-sided stroke resulting in post-stroke aphasia. Methods The study involved twelve participants, but five dropped out. Additionally, data points were missing for three participants in the remaining sample of seven participants. The participants underwent four assessments-a baseline, pre-assessment, post-assessment, and follow-up assessment. Between the pre-and post-assessment, the participants underwent at least 14 sessions of visual spelling using a brain-computer interface. The study aimed to investigate the impact of this intervention on attention, language production, and language comprehension and to determine whether there were any potential effects on quality of life and well-being. Results None of the participants showed a consistent improvement in attention. All participants showed an improvement in spontaneous speech production, and three participants experienced a reduction in aphasia severity. We found an improvement in subjective quality of life and daily functioning. However, we cannot rule out the possibility of unspecific effects causing or at least contributing to these results. Conclusion Due to challenges in assessing the patient population, resulting in a small sample size and missing data points, the results of using visual P300 brain-computer interfaces for chronic post-stroke aphasia rehabilitation are preliminary. Thus, we cannot decisively judge the potential of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja C. Kleih
- Institute of Psychology, Biological Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Human Sciences, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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3
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Jackson LE, Han YJ, Evans LH. The efficacy of electroencephalography neurofeedback for enhancing episodic memory in healthy and clinical participants: A systematic qualitative review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 155:105455. [PMID: 37926240 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105455] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Several studies have examined whether electroencephalography neurofeedback (EEG-NF), a self-regulatory technique where an individual receives real-time feedback on a pattern of brain activity that is theoretically linked to a target behaviour, can enhance episodic memory. The aim of this research was to i) provide a qualitative overview of the literature, and ii) conduct a meta-analysis of appropriately controlled studies to determine whether EEG-NF can enhance episodic memory. The literature search returned 46 studies, with 21 studies (44 effect sizes) meeting the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. The qualitative overview revealed that, across EEG-NF studies on both healthy and clinical populations, procedures and protocols vary considerably and many studies were insufficiently powered with inadequate design features. The meta-analysis, conducted on studies with an active control, revealed a small-size, significant positive effect of EEG-NF on episodic memory performance (g = 0.31, p = 0.003), moderated by memory modality and EEG-NF self-regulation success. These results are discussed with a view towards optimising EEG-NF training and subsequent benefits to episodic memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy E Jackson
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK
| | - Yi-Jhong Han
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London SE5 9RJ, England, UK
| | - Lisa H Evans
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK.
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4
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Chikhi S, Matton N, Sanna M, Blanchet S. Mental strategies and resting state EEG: Effect on high alpha amplitude modulation by neurofeedback in healthy young adults. Biol Psychol 2023; 178:108521. [PMID: 36801435 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2023.108521] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Neurofeedback (NFB) is a brain-computer interface which allows individuals to modulate their brain activity. Despite the self-regulatory nature of NFB, the effectiveness of strategies used during NFB training has been little investigated. In a single session of NFB training (6*3 min training blocks) with healthy young participants, we experimentally tested if providing a list of mental strategies (list group, N = 46), compared with a group receiving no strategies (no list group, N = 39), affected participants' neuromodulation ability of high alpha (10-12 Hz) amplitude. We additionally asked participants to verbally report the mental strategies used to enhance high alpha amplitude. The verbatim was then classified in pre-established categories in order to examine the effect of type of mental strategy on high alpha amplitude. First, we found that giving a list to the participants did not promote the ability to neuromodulate high alpha activity. However, our analysis of the specific strategies reported by learners during training blocks revealed that cognitive effort and recalling memories were associated with higher high alpha amplitude. Furthermore, the resting amplitude of trained high alpha frequency predicted an amplitude increase during training, a factor that may optimize inclusion in NFB protocols. The present results also corroborate the interrelation with other frequency bands during NFB training. Although these findings are based on a single NFB session, our study represents a further step towards developing effective protocols for high alpha neuromodulation by NFB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samy Chikhi
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire Mémoire, Cerveau et Cognition, F-92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Nadine Matton
- CLLE, Université de Toulouse, CNRS (UMR 5263), Toulouse, France; ENAC, École Nationale d'Aviation Civile, Université de Toulouse, France
| | - Marie Sanna
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire Mémoire, Cerveau et Cognition, F-92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Sophie Blanchet
- Université Paris Cité, Laboratoire Mémoire, Cerveau et Cognition, F-92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
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5
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Kober SE, Ninaus M, Witte M, Buchrieser F, Grössinger D, Fischmeister FPS, Neuper C, Wood G. Triathletes are experts in self-regulating physical activity - But what about self-regulating neural activity? Biol Psychol 2022; 173:108406. [PMID: 35952864 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2022.108406] [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: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Regular exercise improves cognitive control abilities and successful self-regulation of physical activity. However, it is not clear whether exercising also improves the ability to self-regulate one's own brain activity. We investigated this in 26 triathletes and 25 control participants who did not exercise regularly. Within each group half of the participants performed one session of sensorimotor rhythm (SMR, 12-15 Hz) upregulation neurofeedback training, the other half received a sham neurofeedback training. The neurofeedback training session took about 45 min. In a separate session, participants underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate possible differences in brain structure between triathletes and controls. Triathletes and controls were able to voluntarily upregulate their SMR activity during neurofeedback when receiving real feedback. Triathletes showed a stronger increase in SMR activity in the second half of the training compared to controls, suggesting that triathletes are able to self-regulate their own brain activity over a longer period of time. Further, triathletes and controls showed differences in brain structure as reflected by larger gray and white matter volumes in the inferior frontal gyrus and insula compared to controls. These brain areas are generally involved in cognitive control mechanisms. Our results provide new evidence regarding self-regulation abilities of people who exercise regularly and might impact the practical application of neurofeedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Erika Kober
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Manuel Ninaus
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; LEAD Graduate School & Research Network, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Matthias Witte
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; Adidas AG, Herzogenaurach, Germany.
| | | | | | - Florian Ph S Fischmeister
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria; Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christa Neuper
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria; Laboratory of Brain-Computer Interfaces, Institute of Neural Engineering, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria.
| | - Guilherme Wood
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
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6
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Berger LM, Wood G, Kober SE. Effects of virtual reality-based feedback on neurofeedback training performance—A sham-controlled study. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:952261. [PMID: 36034118 PMCID: PMC9411512 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.952261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroencephalography-neurofeedback (EEG-NF) has become a valuable tool in the field of psychology, e.g., to improve cognitive function. Nevertheless, a large percentage of NF users seem to be unable to control their own brain activation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine whether a different kind of visual feedback could positively influence NF performance after one training session. Virtual reality (VR) seems to have beneficial training effects and has already been reported to increase motivational training aspects. In the present study, we tested 61 young healthy adults (mean age: 23.48 years; 28 female) to investigate, whether 3D VR-based NF training has a more beneficial effect on the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR, 12–15 Hz) power increase than a mere 2D conventional NF paradigm. In the 3D group, participants had to roll a ball along a predefined path in an immersive virtual environment, whereas the 2D group had to increase the height of a bar. Both paradigms were presented using VR goggles. Participants completed one baseline and six feedback runs with 3 min each, in which they should try to increase SMR power over Cz. Half of the participants received real feedback whereas the other half received sham feedback. Participants receiving 3D VR-based feedback showed a linear increase in SMR power over the feedback runs within one training session. This was the case for the real as well as for the sham 3D feedback group and might be related to more general VR-related effects. The 2D group receiving the conventional bar feedback showed no changes in SMR power over the feedback runs. The present study underlines that the visual feedback modality has differential effects on the NF training performance and that 3D VR-based feedback has advantages over conventional 2D feedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Berger
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- *Correspondence: Lisa M. Berger,
| | - Guilherme Wood
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Silvia E. Kober
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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7
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Prillinger K, Radev ST, Doganay K, Poustka L, Konicar L. Impulsivity Moderates the Effect of Neurofeedback Training on the Contingent Negative Variation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:838080. [PMID: 35547196 PMCID: PMC9082644 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.838080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The contingent negative variation (CNV) is a well-studied indicator of attention- and expectancy-related processes in the human brain. An abnormal CNV amplitude has been found in diverse neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders. However, its role as a potential biomarker of successful clinical interventions in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains unclear. Methods In this randomized controlled trial, we investigated how the CNV changes following an intensive neurofeedback training. Therefore, twenty-one adolescents with ASD underwent 24 sessions of slow cortical potential (SCP) neurofeedback training. Twenty additional adolescents with ASD formed a control group and received treatment as usual. CNV waveforms were obtained from a continuous performance test (CPT), which all adolescents performed before and after the corresponding 3-month long training period. In order to utilize all available neural time series, trial-based area under the curve values for all four electroencephalogram (EEG) channels were analyzed with a hierarchical Bayesian model. In addition, the model included impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity as potential moderators of change in CNV. Results Our model implies that impulsivity moderates the effects of neurofeedback training on CNV depending on group. In the control group, the average CNV amplitude decreased or did not change after treatment as usual. In the experimental group, the CNV changed depending on the severity of comorbid impulsivity symptoms. The average CNV amplitude of participants with low impulsivity scores decreased markedly, whereas the average CNV amplitude of participants with high impulsivity increased. Conclusion The degree of impulsivity seems to play a crucial role in the changeability of the CNV following an intensive neurofeedback training. Therefore, comorbid symptomatology should be recorded and analyzed in future EEG-based brain training interventions. Clinical Trial Registration https://www.drks.de, identifier DRKS00012339.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Prillinger
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan T. Radev
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Quantitative Research Methods, Institute of Psychology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kamer Doganay
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Luise Poustka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Lilian Konicar
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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8
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Alatorre-Cruz GC, Fernández T, Castro-Chavira SA, González-López M, Sánchez-Moguel SM, Silva-Pereyra J. One-Year Follow-Up of Healthy Older Adults with Electroencephalographic Risk for Neurocognitive Disorder After Neurofeedback Training. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 85:1767-1781. [PMID: 34974435 PMCID: PMC8925127 DOI: 10.3233/jad-215538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background: In healthy older adults, excess theta activity is an electroencephalographic (EEG) predictor of cognitive impairment. In a previous study, neurofeedback (NFB) treatment reinforcing reductions theta activity resulted in EEG reorganization and cognitive improvement. Objective: To explore the clinical applicability of this NFB treatment, the present study performed a 1-year follow-up to determine its lasting effects. Methods: Twenty seniors with excessive theta activity in their EEG were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. The experimental group received an auditory reward when the theta absolute power (AP) was reduced. The control group received the reward randomly. Results: Both groups showed a significant decrease in theta activity at the training electrode. However, the EEG results showed that only the experimental group underwent global changes after treatment. These changes consisted of delta and theta decreases and beta increases. Although no changes were found in any group during the period between the posttreatment evaluation and follow-up, more pronounced theta decreases and beta increases were observed in the experimental group when the follow-up and pretreatment measures were compared. Executive functions showed a tendency to improve two months after treatment which became significant one year later. Conclusion: These results suggest that the EEG and behavioral benefits of this NFB treatment persist for at least one year, which adds up to the available evidence contributing to identifying factors that increase its efficacy level. The relevance of this study lies in its prophylactic features of addressing a clinically healthy population with EEG risk of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graciela C Alatorre-Cruz
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Estado de México, México.,Department of Pediatrics. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Thalía Fernández
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México
| | - Susana A Castro-Chavira
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México.,Institutt for Psykologi, Det Helsevitenskapelige Fakultet, Universitetet i Tromsø Norges Arktiske Universitet, Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Mauricio González-López
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México
| | - Sergio M Sánchez-Moguel
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, México.,Escuela Superior de Atotonilco de Tula, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Hidalgo, México
| | - Juan Silva-Pereyra
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Estado de México, México
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9
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Viviani G, Vallesi A. EEG-neurofeedback and executive function enhancement in healthy adults: A systematic review. Psychophysiology 2021; 58:e13874. [PMID: 34117795 PMCID: PMC8459257 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Electroencephalographic (EEG)-neurofeedback training (NFT) is a promising technique that supports individuals in learning to modulate their brain activity to obtain cognitive and behavioral improvements. EEG-NFT is gaining increasing attention for its potential "peak performance" applications on healthy individuals. However, evidence for clear cognitive performance enhancements with healthy adults is still lacking. In particular, whether EEG-NFT represents an effective technique for enhancing healthy adults' executive functions is still controversial. Therefore, the main objective of this systematic review is to assess whether the existing EEG-NFT studies targeting executive functions have provided reliable evidence for NFT effectiveness. To this end, we conducted a qualitative analysis of the literature since the limited number of retrieved studies did not allow us meta-analytical comparisons. Moreover, a second aim was to identify optimal frequencies as NFT targets for specifically improving executive functions. Overall, our systematic review provides promising evidence for NFT effectiveness in boosting healthy adults' executive functions. However, more rigorous NFT studies are required in order to overcome the methodological weaknesses that we encountered in our qualitative analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Viviani
- Department of Neuroscience and Padova Neuroscience CenterUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | - Antonino Vallesi
- Department of Neuroscience and Padova Neuroscience CenterUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
- IRCCS San Camillo HospitalVeniceItaly
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10
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Kober SE, Neuper C, Wood G. Differential Effects of Up- and Down-Regulation of SMR Coherence on EEG Activity and Memory Performance: A Neurofeedback Training Study. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:606684. [PMID: 33424569 PMCID: PMC7793696 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.606684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulating connectivity measures in EEG-based neurofeedback studies is assumed to be a promising therapeutic and training tool. However, little is known so far about its effects and trainability. In the present study, we investigated the effects of up- and down-regulating SMR (12-15 Hz) coherence by means of neurofeedback training on EEG activity and memory functions. Twenty adults performed 10 neurofeedback training sessions in which half of them tried to increase EEG coherence between Cz and CPz in the SMR frequency range, while the other half tried to down-regulate coherence. Up-regulation of SMR coherence led to between- and within-session changes in EEG coherence. SMR power increased across neurofeedback training sessions but not within training sessions. Cross-over training effects on baseline EEG measures were also observed in this group. Up-regulation of SMR coherence was also associated with improvements in memory functions when comparing pre- and post-test results. Participants were not able to down-regulate SMR coherence. This group did not show any changes in baseline EEG measures or memory functions comparing pre- and post-test. Our results provide insights in the trainability and effects of connectivity-based neurofeedback training and indications for its practical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Erika Kober
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christa Neuper
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Guilherme Wood
- Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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11
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Gadea M, Aliño M, Hidalgo V, Espert R, Salvador A. Effects of a single session of SMR neurofeedback training on anxiety and cortisol levels. Neurophysiol Clin 2020; 50:167-173. [PMID: 32279927 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES According to some studies, a putatively calming effect of EEG neurofeedback training could be useful as a therapeutic tool in psychiatric practice. With the aim of elucidating this possibility, we tested the efficacy of a single session of ↑sensorimotor (SMR)/↓theta neurofeedback training for mood improvement in 32 healthy men, taking into account trainability, independence and interpretability of the results. METHODS A pre-post design, with the following dependent variables, was applied: (i) psychometric measures of mood with regards to anxiety, depression, and anger (Profile of Mood State, POMS, and State Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI); (ii) biological measures (salivary levels of cortisol); (iii) neurophysiological measures (EEG frequency band power analysis). In accordance with general recommendations for research in neurofeedback, a control group receiving sham neurofeedback was included. RESULTS Anxiety levels decreased after the real neurofeedback and increased after the sham neurofeedback (P<0.01, size effect 0.9 for comparison between groups). Cortisol decreased after the experiment in both groups, though with significantly more pronounced effects in the desired direction after the real neurofeedback (P<0.04; size effect 0.7). The group receiving real neurofeedback significantly enhanced their SMR band (P<0.004; size effect 0.88), without changes in the theta band. The group receiving sham neurofeedback did not show any EEG changes. CONCLUSIONS The improvement observed in anxiety was greater in the experimental group than in the sham group, confirmed by both subjective (psychometric) measures and objective (biological) measures. This was demonstrated to be associated with the real neurofeedback, though a nonspecific (placebo) effect likely also contributed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marien Gadea
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Marta Aliño
- Department of Psychology, Universidad Internacional de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Vanesa Hidalgo
- Area of Psychobiology, Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Raul Espert
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alicia Salvador
- Laboratory of Cognitive Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychobiology and IDOCAL, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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12
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Dessy E, Mairesse O, van Puyvelde M, Cortoos A, Neyt X, Pattyn N. Train Your Brain? Can We Really Selectively Train Specific EEG Frequencies With Neurofeedback Training. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:22. [PMID: 32210777 PMCID: PMC7077336 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback (NFB) is an operant conditioning procedure whereby an individual learns to self-regulate the electrical activity of his/her brain. Initially developed as a treatment intervention for pathologies with underlying EEG dysfunctions, NFB is also used as a training tool to enhance specific cognitive states required in high-performance situations. The original idea behind the NFB training effect is that the changes should only be circumscribed to the trained EEG frequencies. The EEG frequencies which are not used as feedback frequencies should be independent and not affected by the neurofeedback training. Despite the success of sensorimotor rhythm NFB training in cognitive performance enhancement, it remains unclear whether all participants can intentionally modify the power densities of specifically selected electroencephalographic (EEG) frequencies. In the present study, participants were randomly assigned to either a control heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback (HRV) training group or a combination of HRV biofeedback and neurofeedback (HRV/NFB) training group. This randomized mixed design experiment consisted of two introductory theoretical lessons and a training period of 6 weeks. We investigated the evolution of the different EEG frequency bands of our two experimental groups across and within session. All the participants exhibited EEG changes across and within session. However, within the HRV/NFB training group, untrained EEG frequencies have been significantly modified, unlike some of the trained frequencies. Moreover, EEG activity was modified in both the HRV group and the HRV/NFB groups. Hence, the EEG changes were not only circumscribed to the trained frequency bands or to the training modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Dessy
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium.,Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Mairesse
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium.,Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Sleep Laboratory & Unit for Chronobiology U78, Brugmann University Hospital, Free University of Brussels-Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martine van Puyvelde
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium.,Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Clinical and Lifespan Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aisha Cortoos
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Xavier Neyt
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Pattyn
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium.,Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Human Physiology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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13
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Abstract
Recently, a deep impact of psychosocial effects on the outcomes of neurofeedback training was suggested. Previous findings point out an association between locus of control in dealing with technology and the individual ability to up-regulate the sensorimotor rhythm (12–15 Hz) in the EEG. Since the antecedents of locus of control in dealing with technology differ between males and females, we have investigated the effect of sex of participant and experimenter on the outcomes of neurofeedback training. Mindfulness and SMR baseline power also were assessed as possible confounding variables. Undergraduate psychology students (n = 142) took part in a single session of neurofeedback training conducted by either male or female experimenters. Male participants as well as those female participants instructed by male experimenters were able to upregulate SMR, while female participants trained by female experimenters were not. A strong positive correlation between training outcomes and locus of control in dealing with technology was observed only in the female participants trained by female experimenters. These results are suggestive about the impact of psychosocial factors—particularly gender-related effects—on neurofeedback training outcomes and the urgent need to document it in neurofeedback studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Wood
- Institute of Psychology, Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2, 8010, Graz, Austria. .,BioTechMed, Graz, Austria.
| | - Silvia Erika Kober
- Institute of Psychology, Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2, 8010, Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
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14
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Kober SE, Pinter D, Enzinger C, Damulina A, Duckstein H, Fuchs S, Neuper C, Wood G. Self-regulation of brain activity and its effect on cognitive function in patients with multiple sclerosis - First insights from an interventional study using neurofeedback. Clin Neurophysiol 2019; 130:2124-2131. [PMID: 31546180 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of EEG-based neurofeedback training, in which one can learn to self-regulate one's own brain activity, on cognitive function in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). METHODS Fourteen pwMS performed ten neurofeedback training sessions within 3-4 weeks at home using a tele-rehabilitation system. The aim of the neurofeedback training was to increase voluntarily the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR, 12-15 Hz) in the EEG over central brain areas by receiving visual real-time feedback thereof. Cognitive function was assessed before and after all neurofeedback training sessions using a comprehensive standardized neuropsychological test battery. RESULTS Half of the pwMS (N = 7) showed cognitive improvements in long-term memory and executive functions after neurofeedback training. These patients successfully learned to self-regulate their own brain activity by means of neurofeedback training. The other half of pwMS (N = 7) did neither show any cognitive changes when comparing the pre- and post-assessment nor were they able to modulate their own brain activity in the desired direction during neurofeedback training. CONCLUSIONS Data from this interventional study provide first preliminary evidence that successful self-regulation of one's own brain activity may be associated with cognitive improvements in pwMS. SIGNIFICANCE These promising results should stimulate further studies. Neurofeedback might be a promising and alternative tool for future cognitive rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Erika Kober
- University of Graz, Institute of Psychology, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Daniela Pinter
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Neurology, Graz, Austria.
| | - Christian Enzinger
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Neurology, Graz, Austria; Medical University of Graz, Division of Neuroradiology, Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Graz, Austria.
| | - Anna Damulina
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Neurology, Graz, Austria.
| | | | - Siegrid Fuchs
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Neurology, Graz, Austria.
| | - Christa Neuper
- University of Graz, Institute of Psychology, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria; Graz University of Technology, Laboratory of Brain-Computer Interfaces, Institute of Neural Engineering, Graz, Austria.
| | - Guilherme Wood
- University of Graz, Institute of Psychology, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
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15
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Age-related differences in the within-session trainability of hemodynamic parameters: a near-infrared spectroscopy–based neurofeedback study. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 81:127-137. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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16
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Witte M, Kober SE, Wood G. Noisy but not placebo: defining metrics for effects of neurofeedback. Brain 2019; 141:e40. [PMID: 29547965 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awy060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Witte
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Silvia Erika Kober
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010 Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed-Graz, Mozartgasse 12/II, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Guilherme Wood
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, 8010 Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed-Graz, Mozartgasse 12/II, 8010 Graz, Austria
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17
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Toppi J, Astolfi L, Risetti M, Anzolin A, Kober SE, Wood G, Mattia D. Different Topological Properties of EEG-Derived Networks Describe Working Memory Phases as Revealed by Graph Theoretical Analysis. Front Hum Neurosci 2018; 11:637. [PMID: 29379425 PMCID: PMC5770976 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several non-invasive imaging methods have contributed to shed light on the brain mechanisms underlying working memory (WM). The aim of the present study was to depict the topology of the relevant EEG-derived brain networks associated to distinct operations of WM function elicited by the Sternberg Item Recognition Task (SIRT) such as encoding, storage, and retrieval in healthy, middle age (46 ± 5 years) adults. High density EEG recordings were performed in 17 participants whilst attending a visual SIRT. Neural correlates of WM were assessed by means of a combination of EEG signal processing methods (i.e., time-varying connectivity estimation and graph theory), in order to extract synthetic descriptors of the complex networks underlying the encoding, storage, and retrieval phases of WM construct. The group analysis revealed that the encoding phase exhibited a significantly higher small-world topology of EEG networks with respect to storage and retrieval in all EEG frequency oscillations, thus indicating that during the encoding of items the global network organization could “optimally” promote the information flow between WM sub-networks. We also found that the magnitude of such configuration could predict subject behavioral performance when memory load increases as indicated by the negative correlation between Reaction Time and the local efficiency values estimated during the encoding in the alpha band in both 4 and 6 digits conditions. At the local scale, the values of the degree index which measures the degree of in- and out- information flow between scalp areas were found to specifically distinguish the hubs within the relevant sub-networks associated to each of the three different WM phases, according to the different role of the sub-network of regions in the different WM phases. Our findings indicate that the use of EEG-derived connectivity measures and their related topological indices might offer a reliable and yet affordable approach to monitor WM components and thus theoretically support the clinical assessment of cognitive functions in presence of WM decline/impairment, as it occurs after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Toppi
- Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neuroelectrical Imaging and Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Astolfi
- Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neuroelectrical Imaging and Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Risetti
- Neuroelectrical Imaging and Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Anzolin
- Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neuroelectrical Imaging and Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia E Kober
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Guilherme Wood
- Department of Psychology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Donatella Mattia
- Neuroelectrical Imaging and Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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