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Li L, Li Y, Li Z, Huang G, Liang Z, Zhang L, Wan F, Shen M, Han X, Zhang Z. Multimodal and hemispheric graph-theoretical brain network predictors of learning efficacy for frontal alpha asymmetry neurofeedback. Cogn Neurodyn 2024; 18:847-862. [PMID: 38826665 PMCID: PMC11143167 DOI: 10.1007/s11571-023-09939-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
EEG neurofeedback using frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) has been widely used for emotion regulation, but its effectiveness is controversial. Studies indicated that individual differences in neurofeedback training can be traced to neuroanatomical and neurofunctional features. However, they only focused on regional brain structure or function and overlooked possible neural correlates of the brain network. Besides, no neuroimaging predictors for FAA neurofeedback protocol have been reported so far. We designed a single-blind pseudo-controlled FAA neurofeedback experiment and collected multimodal neuroimaging data from healthy participants before training. We assessed the learning performance for evoked EEG modulations during training (L1) and at rest (L2), and investigated performance-related predictors based on a combined analysis of multimodal brain networks and graph-theoretical features. The main findings of this study are described below. First, both real and sham groups could increase their FAA during training, but only the real group showed a significant increase in FAA at rest. Second, the predictors during training blocks and at rests were different: L1 was correlated with the graph-theoretical metrics (clustering coefficient and local efficiency) of the right hemispheric gray matter and functional networks, while L2 was correlated with the graph-theoretical metrics (local and global efficiency) of the whole-brain and left the hemispheric functional network. Therefore, the individual differences in FAA neurofeedback learning could be explained by individual variations in structural/functional architecture, and the correlated graph-theoretical metrics of learning performance indices showed different laterality of hemispheric networks. These results provided insight into the neural correlates of inter-individual differences in neurofeedback learning. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11571-023-09939-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linling Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Yutong Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Zhaoxun Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Gan Huang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Manjun Shen
- Department of Mental Health, Shenzhen Nanshan Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xue Han
- Department of Mental Health, Shenzhen Nanshan Center for Chronic Disease Control, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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2
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Tosti B, Corrado S, Mancone S, Di Libero T, Rodio A, Andrade A, Diotaiuti P. Integrated use of biofeedback and neurofeedback techniques in treating pathological conditions and improving performance: a narrative review. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1358481. [PMID: 38567285 PMCID: PMC10985214 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1358481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the scientific community has begun tо explore the efficacy оf an integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach іn various conditions, both pathological and non-pathological. Although several studies have contributed valuable insights into its potential benefits, this review aims tо further investigate its effectiveness by synthesizing current findings and identifying areas for future research. Our goal іs tо provide a comprehensive overview that may highlight gaps іn the existing literature and propose directions for subsequent studies. The search for articles was conducted on the digital databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies to have used the integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach published between 2014 and 2023 and reviews to have analyzed the efficacy of neurofeedback and biofeedback, separately, related to the same time interval and topics were selected. The search identified five studies compatible with the objectives of the review, related to several conditions: nicotine addiction, sports performance, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach has been shown to be effective in improving several aspects of these conditions, such as a reduction in the presence of psychiatric symptoms, anxiety, depression, and withdrawal symptoms and an increase in self-esteem in smokers; improvements in communication, imitation, social/cognitive awareness, and social behavior in ASD subjects; improvements in attention, alertness, and reaction time in sports champions; and improvements in attention and inhibitory control in ADHD subjects. Further research, characterized by greater methodological rigor, is therefore needed to determine the effectiveness of this method and the superiority, if any, of this type of training over the single administration of either. This review іs intended tо serve as a catalyst for future research, signaling promising directions for the advancement оf biofeedback and neurofeedback methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Tosti
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino, Cassino, Lazio, Italy
| | - Stefano Corrado
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino, Cassino, Lazio, Italy
| | - Stefania Mancone
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino, Cassino, Lazio, Italy
| | - Tommaso Di Libero
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino, Cassino, Lazio, Italy
| | - Angelo Rodio
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino, Cassino, Lazio, Italy
| | - Alexandro Andrade
- Department of Physical Education, CEFID, Santa Catarina State University, Florianopolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Pierluigi Diotaiuti
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino, Cassino, Lazio, Italy
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Nan W, Yang W, Gong A, Kadosh RC, Ros T, Fu Y, Wan F. Successful learning of alpha up-regulation through neurofeedback training modulates sustained attention. Neuropsychologia 2024; 195:108804. [PMID: 38242318 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2024.108804] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
As a fundamental attention function, sustained attention plays a critical role in general cognitive abilities and is closely linked to EEG alpha oscillations. Neurofeedback training (NFT) of alpha activity on different aspects of attention has been studied previously. However, it remains unclear how NFT with up- or down-regulation directions modulates sustained attention. Here we employed a counterbalanced single-blind sham-controlled crossover design, in which healthy young adults underwent one NFT session of alpha up-regulation, one NFT session of alpha down-regulation, and one sham-control NFT session over the posterior area. The session order was counterbalanced with a 7-day interval between each session. After each NFT session, the participants completed a visual continuous temporal expectancy task (vCTET) to assess their sustained attention performance. The results showed that compared to sham-control NFT, successful learning of alpha up-regulation resulted in increased reaction time at the beginning of the attention task but a slower increase over vCTET blocks. On the other hand, successful learning of alpha down-regulation had no impact on attention performance compared to sham-control NFT. These findings suggest that successful learning of alpha up-regulation through NFT could impair initial attention performance but slow down visual attention deterioration over time, i.e., alpha enhancement by NFT stabilizing visual attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Nan
- School of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Wenjie Yang
- School of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Anmin Gong
- School of Information Engineering, Engineering University of People's Armed Police, Xi'an, China; School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Tomas Ros
- Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, University of Geneva, Campus Biotech, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yunfa Fu
- School of Automation and Information Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
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Huang Y, Deng Y, Kong L, Zhang X, Wei X, Mao T, Xu Y, Jiang C, Rao H. Vigilant attention mediates the association between resting EEG alpha oscillations and word learning ability. Neuroimage 2023; 281:120369. [PMID: 37690592 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2023.120369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals exhibit considerable variability in their capacity to learn and retain new information, including novel vocabulary. Prior research has established the importance of vigilance and electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha rhythm in the learning process. However, the interplay between vigilant attention, EEG alpha oscillations, and an individual's word learning ability (WLA) remains elusive. To address this knowledge gap, here we conducted two experiments with a total of 140 young and middle-aged adults who underwent resting EEG recordings prior to completing a paired-associate word learning task and a psychomotor vigilance test (PVT). The results of both experiments consistently revealed significant positive correlations between WLA and resting EEG alpha oscillations in the occipital and frontal regions. Furthermore, the association between resting EEG alpha oscillations and WLA was mediated by vigilant attention, as measured by the PVT. These findings provide compelling evidence supporting the crucial role of vigilant attention in linking EEG alpha oscillations to an individual's learning ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Huang
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China; School of Foreign Languages, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Deng
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingda Kong
- Institute of Corpus, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiumei Zhang
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaobao Wei
- School of Foreign Languages, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianxin Mao
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China
| | - Caihong Jiang
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hengyi Rao
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Research & Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence for Information Behavior (Ministry of Education and Shanghai), School of Business and Management, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, China; Center for Functional Neuroimaging, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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5
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Shen L, Jiang Y, Wan F, Ku Y, Nan W. Successful alpha neurofeedback training enhances working memory updating and event-related potential activity. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2023; 205:107834. [PMID: 37757954 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2023.107834] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Neurofeedback (NF) is a promising method to self-regulate human brain activity for cognition enhancement. Due to the unclear results of alpha NF training on working memory updating as well as the impact of feedback modality on NF learning, this study aimed to understand further the underlying neural mechanism of alpha NF training effects on working memory updating, where the NF learning was also compared between visual and auditory feedback modalities. A total of 30 participants were assigned to Visual NF, Auditory NF, and Control groups. Working memory updating was evaluated by n-back (n =2,3) tasks before and after five alpha upregulation NF sessions. The result showed no significant difference in NF learning performance between the Visual and Auditory groups, indicating that the difference in feedback modality did not affect NF learning. In addition, compared to the control group, the participants who achieved successful NF learning showed a significant increase in n-back behavioral performance and P3a amplitude in 2-back and a significant decrease in P3a latency in 3-back. Our results in n-back further suggested that successful alpha NF training might improve updating performance in terms of the behavioral and related event-related potential (ERP) measures. These findings contribute to the understanding of the effect of alpha training on memory updating and the design of NF experimental protocol in terms of feedback modality selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Shen
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Macau, Macau; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Macau
| | - Yali Jiang
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Macau, Macau; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Macau
| | - Yixuan Ku
- Department of Psychology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China.
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Tetsuka M, Sakurada T, Matsumoto M, Nakajima T, Morita M, Fujimoto S, Kawai K. Higher prefrontal activity based on short-term neurofeedback training can prevent working memory decline in acute stroke. Front Syst Neurosci 2023; 17:1130272. [PMID: 37388942 PMCID: PMC10300420 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2023.1130272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify whether short-term neurofeedback training during the acute stroke phase led to prefrontal activity self-regulation, providing positive efficacy to working memory. A total of 30 patients with acute stroke performed functional near-infrared spectroscopy-based neurofeedback training for a day to increase their prefrontal activity. A randomized, Sham-controlled, double-blind study protocol was used comparing working memory ability before and after neurofeedback training. Working memory was evaluated using a target-searching task requiring spatial information retention. A decline in spatial working memory performance post-intervention was prevented in patients who displayed a higher task-related right prefrontal activity during neurofeedback training compared with the baseline. Neurofeedback training efficacy was not associated with the patient's clinical background such as Fugl-Meyer Assessment score and time since stroke. These findings demonstrated that even short-term neurofeedback training can strengthen prefrontal activity and help maintain cognitive ability in acute stroke patients, at least immediately after training. However, further studies investigating the influence of individual patient clinical background, especially cognitive impairment, on neurofeedback training is needed. Current findings provide an encouraging option for clinicians to design neurorehabilitation programs, including neurofeedback protocols, for acute stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Tetsuka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sakurada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Seikei University, Tokyo, Japan
- Functional Brain Science Laboratory, Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mayuko Matsumoto
- Functional Brain Science Laboratory, Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- College of Systems Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nakajima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- Rehabilitation Center, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mitsuya Morita
- Rehabilitation Center, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Fujimoto
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kensuke Kawai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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Prashad N, Melara RD, Root JC, Ahles TA. Pre-Treatment Breast Cancer Patients Show Neural Differences in Frontal Alpha Asymmetry. Clin EEG Neurosci 2023; 54:189-197. [PMID: 35118900 PMCID: PMC9741869 DOI: 10.1177/15500594221074860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment has been observed consistently in a subset of breast cancer survivors. Yet, still unknown is whether neural and behavioral effects of cancer exist prior to treatment, which may contribute to later cognitive decline. The current study investigated pre-treatment differences in attention performance and frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA), an established neural index of inhibitory control, in non-metastatic breast cancer patients (n = 42) compared with healthy controls (n = 28). We additionally investigated whether differences between groups appear in specific cuing conditions and across different stages of information processing. Participants underwent EEG while completing the Attention Network Task (ANT), a cognitive measure of alerting, orienting, and inhibitory control of attention. Results revealed no behavioral differences between patients and controls but significantly greater right-hemisphere alpha activity (reduced inhibitory control) in patients, particularly to uninformative (no cue, double cue) versus informative (valid cue) cues and in later stages of information processing (400-800 ms post-stimulus). Results suggest neural differences between groups to uncertain stimulus environments that have yet to manifest behaviorally. FAA may thus serve as a unique neural correlate that could potentially be used to predict later cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Prashad
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Services, 641 Lexington Avenue, 7 Floor, New York, New York 10022
| | - Robert D. Melara
- Department of Psychology, The City College, City University of New York, 160 Convent Avenue, NAC 7-120, New York, NY 10031
| | - James C. Root
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Services, 641 Lexington Avenue, 7 Floor, New York, New York 10022
| | - Tim A. Ahles
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Services, 641 Lexington Avenue, 7 Floor, New York, New York 10022
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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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Uslu S, Vögele C. The more, the better? Learning rate and self-pacing in neurofeedback enhance cognitive performance in healthy adults. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1077039. [PMID: 36733608 PMCID: PMC9887027 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1077039] [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: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Real time electroencephalogram (EEG) based neurofeedback has been shown to be effective in regulating brain activity, thereby modifying cognitive performance and behavior. Nevertheless, individual variations in neurofeedback learning rates limit the overall efficacy of EEG based neurofeedback. In the present study we investigated the effects of learning rate and control over training realized by self-pacing on cognitive performance and electrocortical activity. Using a double-blind design, we randomly allocated 60 participants to either individual upper alpha (IUA) or sham neurofeedback and subsequently to self- or externally paced training. Participants receiving IUA neurofeedback improved their IUA activity more than participants receiving sham neurofeedback. Furthermore, the learning rate predicted enhancements in resting-state activity and mental rotation ability. The direction of this linear relationship depended on the neurofeedback condition being positive for IUA and negative for sham neurofeedback. Finally, self-paced training increased higher-level cognitive skills more than externally paced training. These results underpin the important role of learning rate in enhancing both resting-state activity and cognitive performance. Our design allowed us to differentiate the effect of learning rate between neurofeedback conditions, and to demonstrate the positive effect of self-paced training on cognitive performance in IUA neurofeedback.
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Evaluation of Neurofeedback Learning in Patients with ADHD: A Systematic Review. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2023; 48:11-25. [PMID: 36178643 PMCID: PMC9908642 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-022-09562-2] [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] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
NFB has a clear potential as a recognised treatment option for ADHD, but suffers from a lack of clarity about its efficacy, still unresolved after multiple controlled trials. Comparing learners and non-learners based on the evolution of patient-level indicators during the trial serves as a 'natural' control, and can help elucidate the mechanisms of NFB. We present a systematic review motivated by the need to establish the state of the art of patient learning during NFB treatment in current clinical literature. One particularly striking question we would like to answer here is whether existing NFB papers study learning variability, since only individual performance differences can give us information about mechanisms of learning. The results show that very few clinical trial reports have dealt with the heterogeneity of NFB learning, nor analysed whether NFB efficacy is dependent on NFB learning, even though NFB is believed to be a treatment based on learning to perform. In this systematic review we examine not only what has been reported, but also provide a critical analysis of possible flaws or gaps in existing studies, and discuss why no generalized conclusions about NFB efficacy have yet been made. Future research should focus on finding reliable ways of identifying the performers and studying participants' individual learning trajectories as it might enhance prognosis and the allocation of clinical resources.
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Putri F, Susnoschi Luca I, Garcia Pedro JA, Ding H, Vuckovic A. Winners and losers in brain computer interface competitive gaming: Directional connectivity analysis. J Neural Eng 2022; 19. [PMID: 35882224 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac8451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to characterize the direction within and between brain connectivity in winning and losing players in a competitive brain-computer interface game. APPROACH ten dyads (26.9 ± 4.7 years old, eight females and 12 males) participated in the study. In a competitive game based on neurofeedback, they used their relative alpha (RA) band power from the electrode location Pz, to control a virtual seesaw. The players in each pair were separated into winners (W) and losers (L) based on their scores. Intrabrain connectivity was analyzed using multivariate Granger Causality (GC) and Directed Transfer Function, while interbrain connectivity was analyzed using bivariate GC. RESULTS linear regression analysis revealed a significant relationship (p<0.05) between RA and individual scores. During the game, W players maintained a higher RA than L players, although it was not higher than their baseline RA. The analysis of intrabrain GC indicated that both groups engaged in general social interactions, but only the W group succeeded in controlling their brain activity at Pz. Group L applied an inappropriate metal strategy, characterized by strong activity in the left frontal cortex, indicative of collaborative gaming. Interbrain GC showed a larger flow of information from the L to the W group, suggesting a higher capability of the W group to monitor the activity of their opponent. SIGNIFICANCE both innate neurological indices and gaming mental strategies contribute to game outcomes. Future studies should investigate whether there is a causal relationship between these two factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Finda Putri
- Centre for Rehabilitation Engineering, University of Glasgow, James Watt Building (South), G12 8QQ, Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Ioana Susnoschi Luca
- Centre for Rehabilitation Engineering, University of Glasgow, James Watt Building (South), G12 8QQ, Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Jorge Abdullah Garcia Pedro
- Centre for Rehabilitation Engineering, University of Glasgow, James Watt Building (South), G12 8QQ, Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Hao Ding
- Centre for Rehabilitation Engineering, University of Glasgow, James Watt Building (South), G12 8QQ, Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Aleksandra Vuckovic
- School of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, University of Glasgow, James Watt building (south), G12 8QQ, Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
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Riha C, Güntensperger D, Kleinjung T, Meyer M. Recovering Hidden Responder Groups in Individuals Receiving Neurofeedback for Tinnitus. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:867704. [PMID: 35812211 PMCID: PMC9261875 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.867704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The widespread understanding that chronic tinnitus is a heterogeneous phenomenon with various neural oscillatory profiles has spurred investigations into individualized approaches in its treatment. Neurofeedback, as a non-invasive tool for altering neural activity, has become increasingly popular in the personalized treatment of a wide range of neuropsychological disorders. Despite the success of neurofeedback on the group level, the variability in the treatment efficacy on the individual level is high, and evidence from recent studies shows that only a small number of people can effectively modulate the desired aspects of neural activity. To reveal who may be more suitable, and hence benefit most from neurofeedback treatment, we classified individuals into unobserved subgroups with similar oscillatory trajectories during the treatment and investigated how subgroup membership was predicted by a series of characteristics. Growth mixture modeling was used to identify distinct latent subgroups with similar oscillatory trajectories among 50 individuals suffering from chronic subjective tinnitus (38 male, 12 female, mean age = 47.1 ± 12.84) across 15 neurofeedback training sessions. Further, the impact of characteristics and how they predicted the affiliation in the identified subgroups was evaluated by including measures of demographics, tinnitus-specific (Tinnitus Handicap Inventory) and depression variables, as well as subjective quality of life subscales (World Health Organization—Quality of Life Questionnaire), and health-related quality of life subscales (Short Form-36) in a logistic regression analysis. A latent class model could be fitted to the longitudinal data with a high probability of correctly classifying distinct oscillatory patterns into 3 different groups: non-responder (80%), responder (16%), and decliner (4%). Further, our results show that the health-related wellbeing subscale of the Short Form-36 questionnaire was differentially associated with the groups. However, due to the small sample size in the Responder group, we are not able to provide sufficient evidence for a distinct responder profile. Nevertheless, the identification of oscillatory change-rate differences across distinct groups of individuals provides the groundwork from which to tease apart the complex and heterogeneous oscillatory processes underlying tinnitus and the attempts to modify these through neurofeedback. While more research is needed, our results and the analytical approach presented may bring clarity to contradictory past findings in the field of tinnitus research, and eventually influence clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Riha
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Research Priority Program “ESIT—European School of Interdisciplinary Tinnitus Research,” Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Constanze Riha, , orcid.org/0000-0002-6006-7018
| | | | - Tobias Kleinjung
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Meyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich (ZNZ), ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University Research Priority Program “Dynamics of Healthy Aging,” University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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13
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Zhou Q, Cheng R, Yao L, Ye X, Xu K. Neurofeedback Training of Alpha Relative Power Improves the Performance of Motor Imagery Brain-Computer Interface. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:831995. [PMID: 35463935 PMCID: PMC9026187 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.831995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant variation in performance in motor imagery (MI) tasks impedes their wide adoption for brain-computer interface (BCI) applications. Previous researchers have found that resting-state alpha-band power is positively correlated with MI-BCI performance. In this study, we designed a neurofeedback training (NFT) protocol based on the up-regulation of the alpha band relative power (RP) to investigate its effect on MI-BCI performance. The principal finding of this study is that alpha NFT could successfully help subjects increase alpha-rhythm power and improve their MI-BCI performance. An individual difference was also found in this study in that subjects who increased alpha power more had a better performance improvement. Additionally, the functional connectivity (FC) of the frontal-parietal (FP) network was found to be enhanced after alpha NFT. However, the enhancement failed to reach a significant level after multiple comparisons correction. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the neurophysiological mechanism of cognitive control through alpha regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhou
- Qiushi Academy for Advanced Studies (QAAS), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruidong Cheng
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Yao
- MOE Frontiers Science Center for Brain and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- The College of Computer Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangming Ye
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
- Xiangming Ye,
| | - Kedi Xu
- Qiushi Academy for Advanced Studies (QAAS), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- MOE Frontiers Science Center for Brain and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kedi Xu,
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14
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Sakurada T, Matsumoto M, Yamamoto SI. Individual Sensory Modality Dominance as an Influential Factor in the Prefrontal Neurofeedback Training for Spatial Processing: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Study. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:774475. [PMID: 35221936 PMCID: PMC8866872 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.774475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback is a neuromodulation technique used to improve brain function by self-regulating brain activity. However, the efficacy of neurofeedback training varies widely between individuals, and some participants fail to self-regulate brain activity. To overcome intersubject variation in neurofeedback training efficacy, it is critical to identify the factors that influence this type of neuromodulation. In this study, we considered that individual differences in cognitive ability may influence neurofeedback training efficacy and aimed to clarify the effect of individual working memory (WM) abilities, as characterized by sensory modality dominance, on neurofeedback training efficacy in healthy young adults. In particular, we focused on the abilities of individuals to retain internal (tactile or somatosensory) or external (visual) body information in their WM. Forty participants performed functional near-infrared spectroscopy-based neurofeedback training aimed at producing efficient and lower-level activity in the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and frontopolar cortex. We carried out a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind study that compared WM ability before and after neurofeedback training. Individual WM ability was quantified using a target searching task that required the participants to retain spatial information presented as vibrotactile or visual stimuli. Participants who received feedback information based on their own prefrontal activity showed gradually decreasing activity in the right prefrontal area during the neurofeedback training and demonstrated superior WM ability during the target searching task with vibrotactile stimuli compared with the participants who performed dummy neurofeedback training. In comparison, left prefrontal activity was not influenced by the neurofeedback training. Furthermore, the efficacy of neurofeedback training (i.e., lower right prefrontal activity and better searching task performance) was higher in participants who exhibited tactile dominance rather than visual dominance in their WM. These findings indicate that sensory modality dominance in WM may be an influential neurophysiological factor in determining the efficacy of neurofeedback training. These results may be useful in the development of neurofeedback training protocols tailored to individual needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Sakurada
- Department of Robotics, College of Science and Engineering, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
- Functional Brain Science Laboratory, Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- *Correspondence: Takeshi Sakurada,
| | - Mayuko Matsumoto
- Functional Brain Science Laboratory, Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
- Graduate School of Systems Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shin-ichiroh Yamamoto
- Graduate School of Systems Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Saitama, Japan
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15
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Susnoschi Luca I, Putri FD, Ding H, Vuckovič A. Brain Synchrony in Competition and Collaboration During Multiuser Neurofeedback-Based Gaming. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2021; 2:749009. [PMID: 38235241 PMCID: PMC10790838 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2021.749009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
EEG hyperscanning during multiuser gaming offers opportunities to study brain characteristics of social interaction under various paradigms. In this study, we aimed to characterize neural signatures and phase-based functional connectivity patterns of gaming strategies during collaborative and competitive alpha neurofeedback games. Twenty pairs of participants with no close relationship took part in three sessions of collaborative or competitive multiuser neurofeedback (NF), with identical graphical user interface, using Relative Alpha (RA) power as a control signal. Collaborating dyads had to keep their RA within 5% of each other for the team to be awarded a point, while members of competitive dyads scored points if their RA was 10% above their opponent's. Interbrain synchrony existed only during gaming but not during baseline in either collaborative or competitive gaming. Spectral analysis and interbrain connectivity showed that in collaborative gaming, players with higher resting state alpha content were more active in regulating their RA to match those of their partner. Moreover, interconnectivity was the strongest between homologous brain structures of the dyad in theta and alpha bands, indicating a similar degree of planning and social exchange. Competitive gaming emphasized the difference between participants who were able to relax and, in this way, maintain RA, and those who had an unsuccessful approach. Analysis of interbrain connections shows engagement of frontal areas in losers, but not in winners, indicating the formers' attempt to mentalise and apply strategies that might be suitable for conventional gaming, but inappropriate for the alpha neurofeedback-based game. We show that in gaming based on multiplayer non-verbalized NF, the winning strategy is dependent on the rules of the game and on the behavior of the opponent. Mental strategies that characterize successful gaming in the physical world might not be adequate for NF-based gaming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Susnoschi Luca
- Biomedical Research Division, School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Finda Dwi Putri
- Biomedical Research Division, School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Hao Ding
- Section of Movement Disorders and Neurostimulation, Biomedical Statistics and Multimodal Signal Processing Unit, Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Aleksandra Vuckovič
- Biomedical Research Division, School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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16
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Validation of eyes-closed resting alpha amplitude predicting neurofeedback learning of upregulation alpha activity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19615. [PMID: 34608244 PMCID: PMC8490456 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback training (NFT) enables users to learn self-control of EEG activity of interest and then to create many benefits on cognitive function. A considerable number of nonresponders who fail to achieve successful NFT have often been reported in the within-session prediction. This study aimed to investigate successful EEG NFT of upregulation alpha activity in terms of trainability, independence, and between-session predictability validation. Forty-six participants completed 12 training sessions. Spectrotemporal analysis revealed the upregulation success on brain activity of 8-12 Hz exclusively to demonstrate trainability and independence of alpha NFT. Three learning indices of between-session changes exhibited significant correlations with eyes-closed resting state (ECRS) alpha amplitude before the training exclusively. Through a stepwise linear discriminant analysis, the prediction model of ECRS's alpha frequency band amplitude exhibited the best accuracy (89.1%) validation regarding the learning index of increased alpha amplitude on average. This study performed a systematic analysis on NFT success, the performance of the 3 between-session learning indices, and the validation of ECRS alpha activity for responder prediction. The findings would assist researchers in obtaining insight into the training efficacy of individuals and then attempting to adapt an efficient strategy in NFT success.
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17
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Gupta SS, Manthalkar RR, Gajre SS. Mindfulness intervention for improving cognitive abilities using EEG signal. Biomed Signal Process Control 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2021.103072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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18
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A Multivariate Randomized Controlled Experiment about the Effects of Mindfulness Priming on EEG Neurofeedback Self-Regulation Serious Games. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11167725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurofeedback training (NFT) is a technique often proposed to train brain activity SR with promising results. However, some criticism has been raised due to the lack of evaluation, reliability, and validation of its learning effects. The current work evaluates the hypothesis that SR learning may be improved by priming the subject before NFT with guided mindfulness meditation (MM). The proposed framework was tested in a two-way parallel-group randomized controlled intervention with a single session alpha NFT, in a simplistic serious game design. Sixty-two healthy naïve subjects, aged between 18 and 43 years, were divided into MM priming and no-priming groups. Although both the EG and CG successfully attained the up-regulation of alpha rhythms (F(1,59) = 20.67, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.26), the EG showed a significantly enhanced ability (t(29) = 4.38, p < 0.001) to control brain activity, compared to the CG (t(29) = 1.18, p > 0.1). Furthermore, EG superior performance on NFT seems to be explained by the subject’s lack of awareness at pre-intervention, less vigour at post-intervention, increased task engagement, and a relaxed non-judgemental attitude towards the NFT tasks. This study is a preliminary validation of the proposed assisted priming framework, advancing some implicit and explicit metrics about its efficacy on NFT performance, and a promising tool for improving naïve “users” self-regulation ability.
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19
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Sho’ouri N. Predicting the success rate of healthy participants in beta neurofeedback: Determining the factors affecting the success rate of individuals. Biomed Signal Process Control 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2021.102753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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20
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Li L, Wang Y, Zeng Y, Hou S, Huang G, Zhang L, Yan N, Ren L, Zhang Z. Multimodal Neuroimaging Predictors of Learning Performance of Sensorimotor Rhythm Up-Regulation Neurofeedback. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:699999. [PMID: 34354567 PMCID: PMC8329704 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.699999] [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: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback (NFB) is a popular neuromodulation method to help one selectively enhance or inhibit his/her brain activities by means of real-time visual or auditory feedback of EEG signals. Sensory motor rhythm (SMR) NFB protocol has been applied to improve cognitive performance, but a large proportion of participants failed to self-regulate their brain activities and could not benefit from NFB training. Therefore, it is important to identify the neural predictors of SMR up-regulation NFB training performance for a better understanding the mechanisms of individual difference in SMR NFB. Twenty-seven healthy participants (12 males, age: 23.1 ± 2.36) were enrolled to complete three sessions of SMR up-regulation NFB training and collection of multimodal neuroimaging data [resting-state EEG, structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and resting-state functional MRI (fMRI)]. Correlation analyses were performed between within-session NFB learning index and anatomical and functional brain features extracted from multimodal neuroimaging data, in order to identify the neuroanatomical and neurophysiological predictors for NFB learning performance. Lastly, machine learning models were trained to predict NFB learning performance using features from each modality as well as multimodal features. According to our results, most participants were able to successfully increase the SMR power and the NFB learning performance was significantly correlated with a set of neuroimaging features, including resting-state EEG powers, gray/white matter volumes from MRI, regional and functional connectivity (FC) of resting-state fMRI. Importantly, results of prediction analysis indicate that NFB learning index can be better predicted using multimodal features compared with features of single modality. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of multimodal neuroimaging technique as a tool to explain the individual difference in within-session NFB learning performance, and could provide a theoretical framework for early identification of individuals who cannot benefit from NFB training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linling Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen, China.,Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinxue Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen, China.,Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yixuan Zeng
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shaohui Hou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen, China.,Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Gan Huang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen, China.,Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen, China.,Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nan Yan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Human-Machine Intelligence-Synergy Systems, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lijie Ren
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Shenzhen, China.,Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
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21
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Orendáčová M, Kvašňák E. Effects of Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation and Neurofeedback on Alpha (EEG) Dynamics: A Review. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:628229. [PMID: 34305549 PMCID: PMC8297546 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.628229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) and neurofeedback (NFB) are two different types of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, which can modulate brain activity and improve brain functioning. In this review, we compared the current state of knowledge related to the mechanisms of tACS and NFB and their effects on electroencephalogram (EEG) activity (online period/stimulation period) and on aftereffects (offline period/post/stimulation period), including the duration of their persistence and potential behavioral benefits. Since alpha bandwidth has been broadly studied in NFB and in tACS research, the studies of NFB and tACS in modulating alpha bandwidth were selected for comparing the online and offline effects of these two neuromodulation techniques. The factors responsible for variability in the responsiveness of the modulated EEG activity by tACS and NFB were analyzed and compared too. Based on the current literature related to tACS and NFB, it can be concluded that tACS and NFB differ a lot in the mechanisms responsible for their effects on an online EEG activity but they possibly share the common universal mechanisms responsible for the induction of aftereffects in the targeted stimulated EEG band, namely Hebbian and homeostatic plasticity. Many studies of both neuromodulation techniques report the aftereffects connected to the behavioral benefits. The duration of persistence of aftereffects for NFB and tACS is comparable. In relation to the factors influencing responsiveness to tACS and NFB, significantly more types of factors were analyzed in the NFB studies compared to the tACS studies. Several common factors for both tACS and NFB have been already investigated. Based on these outcomes, we propose several new research directions regarding tACS and NFB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária Orendáčová
- Department of Medical Biophysics and Medical Informatics, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czechia
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22
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Veilahti AVP, Kovarskis L, Cowley BU. Neurofeedback Learning Is Skill Acquisition but Does Not Guarantee Treatment Benefit: Continuous-Time Analysis of Learning-Curves From a Clinical Trial for ADHD. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:668780. [PMID: 34276325 PMCID: PMC8277562 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.668780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has long been studied as an alternative to medication, promising non-invasive treatment with minimal side-effects and sustained outcome. However, debate continues over the efficacy of neurofeedback, partly because existing evidence for efficacy is mixed and often non-specific, with unclear relationships between prognostic variables, patient performance when learning to self-regulate, and treatment outcomes. We report an extensive analysis on the understudied area of neurofeedback learning. Our data comes from a randomised controlled clinical trial in adults with ADHD (registered trial ISRCTN13915109; N = 23; 13:10 female:male; age 25–57). Patients were treated with either theta-beta ratio or sensorimotor-rhythm regimes for 40 one-hour sessions. We classify 11 learners vs 12 non-learners by the significance of random slopes in a linear mixed growth-curve model. We then analyse the predictors, outcomes, and processes of learners vs non-learners, using these groups as mutual controls. Significant predictive relationships were found in anxiety disorder (GAD), dissociative experience (DES), and behavioural inhibition (BIS) scores obtained during screening. Low DES, but high GAD and BIS, predicted positive learning. Patterns of behavioural outcomes from Test Of Variables of Attention, and symptoms from adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, suggested that learning itself is not required for positive outcomes. Finally, the learning process was analysed using structural-equations modelling with continuous-time data, estimating the short-term and sustained impact of each session on learning. A key finding is that our results support the conceptualisation of neurofeedback learning as skill acquisition, and not merely operant conditioning as originally proposed in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Veikko Petteri Veilahti
- Department of Communication, Faculty of Humanities, University of Copenhagen Research Unit, Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela), Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Benjamin Ultan Cowley
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Cognitive Science, Department of Digital Humanities, Faculty of Arts, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Cognitive Brain Research Unit, Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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23
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Trambaiolli LR, Tiwari A, Falk TH. Affective Neurofeedback Under Naturalistic Conditions: A Mini-Review of Current Achievements and Open Challenges. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2021; 2:678981. [PMID: 38235228 PMCID: PMC10790905 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2021.678981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Affective neurofeedback training allows for the self-regulation of the putative circuits of emotion regulation. This approach has recently been studied as a possible additional treatment for psychiatric disorders, presenting positive effects in symptoms and behaviors. After neurofeedback training, a critical aspect is the transference of the learned self-regulation strategies to outside the laboratory and how to continue reinforcing these strategies in non-controlled environments. In this mini-review, we discuss the current achievements of affective neurofeedback under naturalistic setups. For this, we first provide a brief overview of the state-of-the-art for affective neurofeedback protocols. We then discuss virtual reality as a transitional step toward the final goal of "in-the-wild" protocols and current advances using mobile neurotechnology. Finally, we provide a discussion of open challenges for affective neurofeedback protocols in-the-wild, including topics such as convenience and reliability, environmental effects in attention and workload, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas R. Trambaiolli
- Basic Neuroscience Division, McLean Hospital–Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, United States
| | - Abhishek Tiwari
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, University of Quebec, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tiago H. Falk
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, University of Quebec, Montreal, QC, Canada
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24
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Riha C, Güntensperger D, Oschwald J, Kleinjung T, Meyer M. Application of Latent Growth Curve modeling to predict individual trajectories during neurofeedback treatment for tinnitus. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 263:109-136. [PMID: 34243885 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Tinnitus is a heterogeneous phenomenon indexed by various EEG oscillatory profiles. Applying neurofeedback (NFB) with the aim of changing these oscillatory patterns not only provides help for those who suffer from the phantom percept, but a promising foundation from which to probe influential factors. The reliable attribution of influential factors that potentially predict oscillatory changes during the course of NFB training may lead to the identification of subgroups of individuals that are more or less responsive to NFB training. The present study investigated oscillatory trajectories of delta (3-4Hz) and individual alpha (8.5-12Hz) during 15 NFB training sessions, based on a Latent Growth Curve framework. First, we found the desired enhancement of alpha, while delta was stable throughout the NFB training. Individual differences in tinnitus-specific variables and general-, as well as health-related quality of life predictors were largely unrelated to oscillatory change prior to and across the training. Only the predictors age and sex at baseline were clearly related to slow-wave delta, particularly so for older female individuals who showed higher delta power values from the start. Second, we confirmed a hierarchical cross-frequency association between the two frequency bands; however, in opposing directions to those anticipated in tinnitus. The establishment of individually tailored NFB protocols would boost this therapy's effectiveness in the treatment of tinnitus. In our analysis, we propose a conceptual groundwork toward this goal of developing more targeted treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Riha
- Chair of Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Research Priority Program "ESIT-European School of Interdisciplinary Tinnitus Research", Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Güntensperger
- Chair of Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Oschwald
- University Research Priority Program "Dynamics of Healthy Aging", University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Kleinjung
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Meyer
- Chair of Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Esteves I, Nan W, Alves C, Calapez A, Melício F, Rosa A. An Exploratory Study of Training Intensity in EEG Neurofeedback. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:8881059. [PMID: 33777137 PMCID: PMC7979284 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8881059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback training has shown benefits in clinical treatment and behavioral performance enhancement. Despite the wide range of applications, no consensus has been reached about the optimal training schedule. In this work, an EEG neurofeedback practical experiment was conducted aimed at investigating the effects of training intensity on the enhancement of the amplitude in the individual upper alpha band. We designed INTENSIVE and SPARSE training modalities, which differed regarding three essential aspects of training intensity: the number of sessions, the duration of a session, and the interval between sessions. Nine participants in the INTENSIVE group completed 4 sessions with 37.5 minutes each during consecutive days, while nine participants in the SPARSE group performed 6 sessions of 25 minutes spread over approximately 3 weeks. As a result, regarding the short-term effects, the upper alpha band amplitude change within sessions did not significantly differ between the two groups. Nonetheless, only the INTENSIVE group showed a significant increase in the upper alpha band amplitude. However, for the sustained effects across sessions, none of the groups showed significant changes in the upper alpha band amplitude across the whole course of training. The findings suggest that the progression within session is favored by the intensive design. Therefore, based on these findings, it is proposed that training intensity influences EEG self-regulation within sessions. Further investigations are needed to isolate different aspects of training intensity and effectively confirm if one modality globally outperforms the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Esteves
- Evolutionary Systems and Biomedical Engineering Lab, Institute for Systems and Robotics, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China
| | - Cristiana Alves
- Evolutionary Systems and Biomedical Engineering Lab, Institute for Systems and Robotics, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Alexandre Calapez
- Evolutionary Systems and Biomedical Engineering Lab, Institute for Systems and Robotics, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernando Melício
- Evolutionary Systems and Biomedical Engineering Lab, Institute for Systems and Robotics, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa (ISEL), Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1959-007 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Rosa
- Evolutionary Systems and Biomedical Engineering Lab, Institute for Systems and Robotics, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
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Yeh WH, Hsueh JJ, Shaw FZ. Neurofeedback of Alpha Activity on Memory in Healthy Participants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 14:562360. [PMID: 33469422 PMCID: PMC7813983 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.562360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neurofeedback training (NFT) has recently been proposed as a valuable technique for cognitive enhancement and psychiatric amelioration. However, effect of NFT of alpha activity on memory is controversial. The current study analyzed previous works in terms of randomized and blinded analyses, training paradigms, and participant characteristics to validate the efficacy of alpha NFT on memory in a healthy population. Objectives: A systematic meta-analysis of studies with randomized controlled trials was performed to explore the effect of alpha NFT on working memory (WM) and episodic memory (EM) in a healthy population. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library from January 1, 1999, to November 30, 2019. Previous studies were evaluated with the Cochrane risk of bias (RoB). A meta-analysis calculating absolute weighted standardized mean difference (SMD) using random-effects models was employed. Heterogeneity was estimated using I 2 statistics. Funnel plots and Egger's test were performed to evaluate the quality of evidence. Results: Sixteen studies with 217 healthy participants in the control group and 210 participants in the alpha group met the eligibility criteria. Alpha NFT studies with WM measures presented little publication bias (P = 0.116), and 5 of 7 domains in the Cochrane RoB exhibited a low risk of bias. The overall effect size from 14 WM studies was 0.56 (95% CI 0.31-0.81, P < 0.0001; I 2 = 28%). Six EM studies exhibited an effect size of 0.77 (95% CI 0.06-1.49, P = 0.03; I 2 = 77%). Conclusion: Meta-analysis results suggest that alpha NFT seems to have a positive effect on the WM and EM of healthy participants. Future efforts should focus on the neurophysiological mechanisms of alpha NFT in memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Hsiu Yeh
- Institute of Basic Medical Science, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Jui Hsueh
- Mind Research and Imaging Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Zen Shaw
- Institute of Basic Medical Science, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Mind Research and Imaging Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Belinskaya A, Smetanin N, Lebedev MA, Ossadtchi A. Short-delay neurofeedback facilitates training of the parietal alpha rhythm. J Neural Eng 2020; 17. [PMID: 33166941 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abc8d7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Feedback latency was shown to be a critical parameter in a range of applications that imply learning. The therapeutic effects of neurofeedback (NFB) remain controversial. We hypothesized that often encountered unreliable results of NFB intervention could be associated with large feedback latency values that are often uncontrolled and may preclude the efficient learning. APPROACH We engaged our subjects into a parietal alpha power unpregulating paradigm faciliated by visual neurofeedback based on the invidually extracted envelope of the alpha-rhythm at P4 electrode. NFB was displayed either as soon as EEG envelope was processed, or with an extra 250 or 500-ms delay. The feedback training consisted of 15 two-minute long blocks interleaved with 15s pauses. We have also recorded two minute long baselines immediately before and after the training. MAIN RESULTS The time course of NFB-induced changes in the alpha rhythm power clearly depended on NFB latency, as shown with the adaptive Neyman test. NFB had a strong effect on the alpha-spindle incidence rate, but not on their duration or amplitude. The sustained changes in alpha activity measured after the completion of NFB training were negatively correlated to latency, with the maximum change for the shortest tested latency and no change for the longest. SIGNIFICANCE Here we for the first time show that visual NFB of parietal electroencephalographic (EEG) alpha-activity is efficient only when delivered to human subjects at short latency, which guarantees that NFB arrives when an alpha spindle is still ongoing. Such a considerable effect of NFB latency on the alpha-activity temporal structure could explain some of the previous inconsistent results, where latency was neither controlled nor documented. Clinical practitioners and manufacturers of NFB equipment should add latency to their specifications while enabling latency monitoring and supporting short-latency operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Belinskaya
- Centre for Bioelectric Interfaces, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moskva, Moskva, RUSSIAN FEDERATION
| | - Nikolai Smetanin
- Centre for Bioelectric Interfaces, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moskva, Moskva, RUSSIAN FEDERATION
| | - M A Lebedev
- Center for Bioelectric Interfaces, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moskva, Moskva, RUSSIAN FEDERATION
| | - Alexei Ossadtchi
- Center for bioelectirc interfaces, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moskva, Moskva, RUSSIAN FEDERATION
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Velasquez-Martinez L, Caicedo-Acosta J, Acosta-Medina C, Alvarez-Meza A, Castellanos-Dominguez G. Regression Networks for Neurophysiological Indicator Evaluation in Practicing Motor Imagery Tasks. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E707. [PMID: 33020435 PMCID: PMC7600302 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10100707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor Imagery (MI) promotes motor learning in activities, like developing professional motor skills, sports gestures, and patient rehabilitation. However, up to 30% of users may not develop enough coordination skills after training sessions because of inter and intra-subject variability. Here, we develop a data-driven estimator, termed Deep Regression Network (DRN), which jointly extracts and performs the regression analysis in order to assess the efficiency of the individual brain networks in practicing MI tasks. The proposed double-stage estimator initially learns a pool of deep patterns, extracted from the input data, in order to feed a neural regression model, allowing for infering the distinctiveness between subject assemblies having similar variability. The results, which were obtained on real-world MI data, prove that the DRN estimator fosters pre-training neural desynchronization and initial training synchronization to predict the bi-class accuracy response, thus providing a better understanding of the Brain-Computer Interface inefficiency of subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Velasquez-Martinez
- Signal Processing and Recognition Group, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Manizales 170004, Colombia; (J.C.-A.); (C.A.-M.); (A.A.-M.); (G.C.-D.)
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Khodakarami Z, Firoozabadi M. Psychological, Neurophysiological, and Mental Factors Associated With Gamma-Enhancing Neurofeedback Success. Basic Clin Neurosci 2020; 11:701-714. [PMID: 33643562 PMCID: PMC7878062 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.11.5.1878.1] [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: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Regarding the neurofeedback training process, previous studies indicate that 10%-50% of subjects cannot gain control over their brain activity even after repeated training sessions. This study is conducted to overcome this problem by investigating inter-individual differences in neurofeedback learning to propose some predictors for the trainability of subjects. METHODS Eight healthy female students took part in 8 (electroencephalography) EEG neurofeedback training sessions for enhancing EEG gamma power at the Oz channel. We studied participants' preexisting fluid intelligence and EEG frequency sub-bands' power during 2-min eyes-closed rest and a cognitive task as psychological and neurophysiological factors, concerning neurofeedback learning performance. We also assessed the self-reports of participants about mental strategies used by them during neurofeedback to identify the most effective successful strategies. RESULTS The results revealed that a significant percentage of individuals (25% in this study) cannot learn how to control their brain gamma activity using neurofeedback. Our findings suggest that fluid intelligence, gamma power during a cognitive task, and alpha power at rest can predict gamma-enhancing neurofeedback performance of individuals. Based on our study, neurofeedback learning is a form of implicit learning. We also found that learning without a user's mental efforts to find out successful mental strategies, in other words, unconscious learning, lead to more success in gamma-enhancing neurofeedback. CONCLUSION Our results may improve gamma neurofeedback efficacy for further clinical usage and studies by giving insight about both non-trainable individuals and effective mental strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynab Khodakarami
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Firoozabadi
- Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Weber LA, Ethofer T, Ehlis AC. Predictors of neurofeedback training outcome: A systematic review. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2020; 27:102301. [PMID: 32604020 PMCID: PMC7327249 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Best available evidence exists for neurophysiological baseline parameters. No substantial effect of age and intelligence on training outcome in most cases. Neurofeedback learning success predicts treatment outcome. To date, a reliable selection of participants based on predictors is not possible.
Neurofeedback (NF), a training tool aimed at enhancing neural self-regulation, has been suggested as a complementary treatment option for neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite its potential as a neurobiological intervention directly targeting neural alterations underlying clinical symptoms, the efficacy of NF for the treatment of mental disorders has been questioned recently by negative findings obtained in randomized controlled trials (e.g., Cortese et al., 2016). A possible reason for insufficient group effects of NF trainings vs. placebo could be related to the high rate of participants who fail to self-regulate brain activity by NF (“non-learners”). Another reason could be the application of standardized NF protocols not adjusted to individual differences in pathophysiology. Against this background, we have summarized information on factors determining training and treatment success to provide a basis for the development of individualized training protocols and/or clinical indications. The present systematic review included 25 reports investigating predictors for the outcome of NF trainings in healthy individuals as well as patients affected by mental disorders or epilepsy. We selected these studies based on searches in EBSCOhost using combinations of the keywords “neurofeedback” and “predictor/predictors”. As “NF training” we defined all NF applications with at least two sessions. The best available evidence exists for neurophysiological baseline parameters. Among them, the target parameters of the respective training seem to be of particular importance. However, particularities of the different experimental designs and outcome criteria restrict the interpretability of some of the information we extracted. Therefore, further research is needed to gain more profound knowledge about predictors of NF outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Anna Weber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Calwerstr.14, D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Thomas Ethofer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Calwerstr.14, D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany; Department for Biomedical Resonance, University Hospital Tuebingen, Otfried-Müller-Str.51, D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Ann-Christine Ehlis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Calwerstr.14, D-72076 Tuebingen, Germany; LEAD Graduate School & Research Network, University of Tuebingen, Walter-Simon-Straße 12, D-72074 Tuebingen, Germany.
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Lam SL, Criaud M, Alegria A, Barker GJ, Giampietro V, Rubia K. Neurofunctional and behavioural measures associated with fMRI-neurofeedback learning in adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2020; 27:102291. [PMID: 32526685 PMCID: PMC7287276 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Neurofeedback (fMRI-NF) targeting brain areas/networks shown to be dysfunctional by previous fMRI research is a promising novel neurotherapy for ADHD. Our pioneering study in 31 adolescents with ADHD showed that fMRI-NF of the right inferior frontal cortex (rIFC) and of the left parahippocampal gyrus (lPHG) was associated with clinical improvements. Previous studies using electro-encephalography-NF have shown, however, that not all ADHD patients learn to self-regulate, and the predictors of fMRI-NF self-regulation learning are not presently known. The aim of the current study was therefore to elucidate the potential predictors of fMRI-NF learning by investigating the relationship between fMRI-NF learning and baseline inhibitory brain function during an fMRI stop task, along with clinical and cognitive measures. fMRI-NF learning capacity was calculated for each participant by correlating the number of completed fMRI-NF runs with brain activation in their respective target regions from each run (rIFC or lPHG); higher correlation values were taken as a marker of better (linear) fMRI-NF learning. Linear correlations were then conducted between baseline measures and the participants' capacity for fMRI-NF learning. Better fMRI-NF learning was related to increased activation in left inferior fronto-striatal regions during the fMRI stop task. Poorer self-regulation during fMRI-NF training was associated with enhanced activation in posterior temporo-occipital and cerebellar regions. Cognitive and clinical measures were not associated with general fMRI-NF learning across all participants. A categorical analysis showed that 48% of adolescents with ADHD successfully learned fMRI-NF and this was also not associated with any baseline clinical or cognitive measures except that faster processing speed during inhibition and attention tasks predicted learning. Taken together, the findings suggest that imaging data are more predictive of fMRI-NF self-regulation skills in ADHD than behavioural data. Stronger baseline activation in fronto-striatal cognitive control regions predicts better fMRI-NF learning in ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheut-Ling Lam
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Marion Criaud
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Analucia Alegria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gareth J Barker
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Vincent Giampietro
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Katya Rubia
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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Nan W, Yang L, Wan F, Zhu F, Hu Y. Alpha down-regulation neurofeedback training effects on implicit motor learning and consolidation. J Neural Eng 2020; 17:026014. [PMID: 32126528 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ab7c1b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Implicit motor learning, which is a non-conscious form of learning characterized by motor performance improvement with practice, plays an essential role in various daily activities. Earlier study using neurofeedback training (NFT), a type of brain-computer interaction that enables the user to learn self-regulating his/her own brain activity, demonstrated that down-regulating alpha over primary motor cortex by NFT could immediately facilitate the implicit motor learning in a relatively simple motor task. However, detailed effects on EEG and implicit motor learning due to NFT especially in a more complex motor task are still unclear. APPROACH We designed a single-blind sham-controlled between-subject study to examine whether alpha down-regulation NFT could facilitate implicit motor learning and also its consolidation in a more difficult and motor predominant task. At left primary motor cortex (C3) in two days, the alpha NFT group received alpha down-regulation training through auditory feedback while the sham-control group received random beta NFT. At the end of NFT, all participants performed the continuous tracking task with their dominant (right) hand to evaluate the implicit motor learning immediately. Finally, the continuous tracking task was performed again on the next day to assess consolidation effects. MAIN RESULTS The alpha NFT group successfully decreased alpha amplitude during NFT, whereas the sham-control group maintained alpha at a relatively stable level. There was unfortunately no statistical evidence proving that the alpha NFT group significantly enhanced the implicit motor learning at the end of NFT and the consolidation on the next day compared to the sham-control group. Nevertheless, a significant correlation was found between the alpha change trend during NFT and the implicit motor learning for all participants, suggesting that faster alpha down-regulation was associated with better implicit motor learning. SIGNIFICANCE The findings suggested a close link between implicit motor learning and alpha change induced by NFT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Macau, Macau. Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Institute of Collaborative Innovation, University of Macau, Macau
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Gong A, Nan W, Yin E, Jiang C, Fu Y. Efficacy, Trainability, and Neuroplasticity of SMR vs. Alpha Rhythm Shooting Performance Neurofeedback Training. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:94. [PMID: 32265676 PMCID: PMC7098988 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous literature on shooting performance neurofeedback training (SP-NFT) to enhance performance usually focused on changes in behavioral indicators, but research on the physiological features of SP-NFT is lacking. To explore the effects of SP-NFT on trainability and neuroplasticity, we conducted a study in which 45 healthy participants were randomly divided into three groups: based on sensory-motor rhythm of C3, Cz and C4 (SMR group), based on alpha rhythm of T3 and T4 (Alpha group), and no NFT (control group). The training was performed for six sessions for 3 weeks. Before and after the SP-NFT, we evaluated changes in shooting performance and resting electroencephalography (EEG) frequency power, participant's subjective task appraisal, neurofeedback trainability score, and EEG feature. Statistical analysis showed that the shooting performance of the participants in the SMR group improved significantly, the participants in the Alpha group decreased, and that of participants in the control group have no change. Meanwhile, the resting EEG power features of the two NFT groups changed specifically after training. The training process data showed that the training difficulty was significantly lower in the SMR group than in the Alpha group. Both NFT groups could improve the neurofeedback trainability scores and change the feedback features by means of their mind strategy. These results may provide evidence of trainability and neuroplasticity for SP-NFT, suggesting that the SP-NFT is effective in brain regulation and thus provide a potential method to improve shooting performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmin Gong
- School of Information Engineering, Engineering University of Armed Police Force, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, College of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Erwei Yin
- Tianjin Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center (TAIIC), National Institute of Defense Technology Innovation, Academy of Military Sciences China, Beijing, China
| | - Changhao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Sports Performance Evaluation and Technical Analysis, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfa Fu
- School of Automation and Information Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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Bucho T, Caetano G, Vourvopoulos A, Accoto F, Esteves I, I Badia SB, Rosa A, Figueiredo P. Comparison of Visual and Auditory Modalities for Upper-Alpha EEG-Neurofeedback .. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2020; 2019:5960-5966. [PMID: 31947205 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2019.8856671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Electroencephalography (EEG) neurofeedback (NF) training has been shown to produce long-lasting effects on the improvement of cognitive function as well as the normalization of aberrant brain activity in disease. However, the impact of the sensory modality used as the NF reinforcement signal on training effectiveness has not been systematically investigated. In this work, an EEG-based NF-training system was developed targeting the individual upper-alpha (UA) band and using either a visual or an auditory reinforcement signal, so as to compare the effects of the two sensory modalities. Sixteen healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to the Visual or Auditory group, where a radius-varying sphere or a volume-varying sound, respectively, reflected the relative amplitude of UA measured at EEG electrode Cz. Each participant underwent a total of four NF sessions, of approximately 40 min each, on consecutive days. Both groups showed significant increases in UA at Cz within sessions, and also across sessions. Effects subsequent to NF training were also found beyond the target frequency UA and scalp location Cz, namely in the lower-alpha and theta bands and in posterior brain regions, respectively. Only small differences were found on the EEG between the Visual and Auditory groups, suggesting that auditory reinforcement signals may be as effective as the more commonly used visual signals. The use of auditory NF may potentiate training protocols conducted under mobile conditions, which are now possible due to the increasing availability of wireless EEG systems.
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Nan W, Dias APB, Rosa AC. Neurofeedback Training for Cognitive and Motor Function Rehabilitation in Chronic Stroke: Two Case Reports. Front Neurol 2019; 10:800. [PMID: 31396152 PMCID: PMC6668042 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a debilitating neurological condition which usually results in the abnormal electrical brain activity and the impairment of sensation, motor, or cognition functions. In this context, neurofeedback training, i.e., a non-invasive and relatively low cost technique that contributes to neuroplasticity and behavioral performance, might be promising for stroke rehabilitation. We intended to explore neurofeedback training on a 63-year-old male patient and a 77-year-old female patient with chronic stroke. Both of them had suffered from an ischemic stroke for rather long period (more than 3 years) and could not gain further improvement by traditional therapy. The neurofeedback training was designed to enhance alpha activity by 15 sessions distributed over 2 months, for the purpose of overall cognitive improvement and hopefully also motor function improvement for the female patient. We found that the two patients showed alpha enhancement during NFT compared to eyes open baseline within most sessions. Furthermore, both patients reduced their anxiety and depression level. The male patient showed an evolution in speech pattern in terms of naming, sentences completion and verbal fluency, while the female patient improved functionality of the march. These results suggested that alpha neurofeedback training could provide a spectrum of improvements, providing new hope for chronic stroke patients who could not gain further improvements through traditional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ana Paula Barbosa Dias
- Department of Bioengineering, LaSEEB-System and Robotics Institute, Instituto Superior Tecnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Agostinho C Rosa
- Department of Bioengineering, LaSEEB-System and Robotics Institute, Instituto Superior Tecnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Gordon S, Todder D, Deutsch I, Garbi D, Alkobi O, Shriki O, Shkedy-Rabani A, Shahar N, Meiran N. Effects of neurofeedback and working memory-combined training on executive functions in healthy young adults. PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2019; 84:1586-1609. [PMID: 31053887 DOI: 10.1007/s00426-019-01170-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Given the interest in improving executive functions, the present study examines a promising combination of two training techniques: neurofeedback training (NFT) and working memory training (WMT). NFT targeted increasing the amplitude of individual's upper Alpha frequency band at the parietal midline scalp location (Pz), and WMT consisted of an established computerized protocol with working memory updating and set-shifting components. Healthy participants (n = 140) were randomly allocated to five combinations of training, including visual search training used as an active control training for the WMT; all five groups were compared to a sixth silent control group receiving no training. All groups were evaluated before and after training for resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) and behavioral executive function measures. The participants in the silent control group were unaware of this procedure, and received one of the training protocols only after study has ended. Results demonstrated significant improvement in the practice tasks in all training groups including non-specific influence of NFT on resting-state EEG spectral topography. There was only a near transfer effect (improvement in working memory task) for WMT, which remained significant in the delayed post-test (after 1 month), in comparison to silent control group but not in comparison to active control training group. The NFT + WMT combined group showed improved mental rotation ability both in the post-training and in the follow-up evaluations. This improvement, however, did not differ significantly from that in the silent control group. We conclude that the current training protocols, including their combination, have very limited influence on the executive functions that were assessed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Gordon
- Department of Psychology and Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beersheba, Israel. .,IDF Medical Corps, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.
| | - Doron Todder
- Mental Health Center, Beer Sheva, Ministry of Health, Beersheba, Zlotowski, Israel.,Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | | | - Dror Garbi
- Department of Psychology and Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beersheba, Israel.,IDF Medical Corps, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Oren Alkobi
- Department of Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Oren Shriki
- Department of Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Anat Shkedy-Rabani
- Department of Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Nitzan Shahar
- Department of Psychology and Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Nachshon Meiran
- Department of Psychology and Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beersheba, Israel
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Wang X, Dmochowski JP, Zeng L, Kallioniemi E, Husain M, Gonzalez-Lima F, Liu H. Transcranial photobiomodulation with 1064-nm laser modulates brain electroencephalogram rhythms. NEUROPHOTONICS 2019; 6:025013. [PMID: 31259198 PMCID: PMC6563945 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.6.2.025013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) with a 1064-nm laser has been reported to improve human performance on cognitive tasks as well as locally upregulate cerebral oxygen metabolism and hemodynamics. However, it is unknown whether 1064-nm tPBM also modulates electrophysiology, and specifically neural oscillations, in the human brain. The hypothesis guiding our study is that applying 1064-nm tPBM of the right prefrontal cortex enhances neurophysiological rhythms at specific frequency bands in the human brain under resting conditions. To test this hypothesis, we recorded the 64-channel scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) before, during, and after the application of 11 min of 4-cm-diameter tPBM (CW 1064-nm laser with 162 mW / cm 2 and 107 J / cm 2 ) to the right forehead of human subjects ( n = 20 ) using a within-subject, sham-controlled design. Time-resolved scalp topographies of EEG power at five frequency bands were computed to examine the tPBM-induced EEG power changes across the scalp. The results show time-dependent, significant increases of EEG spectral powers at the alpha (8 to 13 Hz) and beta (13 to 30 Hz) bands at broad scalp regions, exhibiting a front-to-back pattern. The findings provide the first sham-controlled topographic mapping that tPBM increases the strength of electrophysiological oscillations (alpha and beta bands) while also shedding light on the mechanisms of tPBM in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlong Wang
- University of Texas at Arlington, Department of Bioengineering, Arlington, Texas, United States
| | - Jacek P. Dmochowski
- City College of New York, Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York, United States
| | - Li Zeng
- Texas A&M University, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, College Station, Texas, United States
| | - Elisa Kallioniemi
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Psychiatry, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Mustafa Husain
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Department of Psychiatry, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - F. Gonzalez-Lima
- University of Texas at Austin, Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, Austin, Texas, United States
| | - Hanli Liu
- University of Texas at Arlington, Department of Bioengineering, Arlington, Texas, United States
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38
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Goldway N, Ablin J, Lubin O, Zamir Y, Keynan JN, Or-Borichev A, Cavazza M, Charles F, Intrator N, Brill S, Ben-Simon E, Sharon H, Hendler T. Volitional limbic neuromodulation exerts a beneficial clinical effect on Fibromyalgia. Neuroimage 2019; 186:758-770. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Dhindsa K, Gauder KD, Marszalek KA, Terpou B, Becker S. Progressive Thresholding: Shaping and Specificity in Automated Neurofeedback Training. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2018; 26:2297-2305. [DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2018.2878328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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40
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Ehlis AC, Barth B, Hudak J, Storchak H, Weber L, Kimmig ACS, Kreifelts B, Dresler T, Fallgatter AJ. Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as a New Tool for Neurofeedback Training: Applications in Psychiatry and Methodological Considerations. JAPANESE PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jpr.12225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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41
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Nan W, Wan F, Tang Q, Wong CM, Wang B, Rosa A. Eyes-Closed Resting EEG Predicts the Learning of Alpha Down-Regulation in Neurofeedback Training. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1607. [PMID: 30210419 PMCID: PMC6121215 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback training, which enables the trainee to learn self-control of the EEG activity of interest based on online feedback, has demonstrated benefits on cognitive and behavioral performance. Nevertheless, as a core mechanism of neurofeedback, learning of EEG regulation (i.e., EEG learning) has not been well understood. Moreover, a substantial number of non-learners who fail to achieve successful EEG learning have often been reported. This study investigated the EEG learning in alpha down-regulation neurofeedback, aiming to better understand the alpha learning and to early predict learner/non-learner. Twenty-nine participants received neurofeedback training to down-regulate alpha in two days, while eight of them were identified as non-learners who failed to reduce their alpha within sessions. Through a stepwise linear discriminant analysis, a prediction model was built based on participant's eyes-closed resting EEG activities in broad frequency bands including lower alpha, theta, sigma and beta 1 measured before training, which was validated in predicting learners/non-learners. The findings would assist in the early identification of the individuals who would not likely reduce their alpha during neurofeedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Nan
- Department of Psychology, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Qi Tang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Chi Man Wong
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Boyu Wang
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Agostinho Rosa
- Department of Bioengineering, LaSEEB-System and Robotics Institute, Instituto Superior Tecnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Trambaiolli LR, Biazoli CE, Cravo AM, Falk TH, Sato JR. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy-based affective neurofeedback: feedback effect, illiteracy phenomena, and whole-connectivity profiles. NEUROPHOTONICS 2018; 5:035009. [PMID: 30689679 PMCID: PMC6156400 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.5.3.035009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Background: Affective neurofeedback constitutes a suitable approach to control abnormal neural activities associated with psychiatric disorders and might consequently relief symptom severity. However, different aspects of neurofeedback remain unclear, such as its neural basis, the performance variation, the feedback effect, among others. Aim: First, we aimed to propose a functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS)-based affective neurofeedback based on the self-regulation of frontal and occipital networks. Second, we evaluated three different feedback approaches on performance: real, fixed, and random feedback. Third, we investigated different demographic, psychological, and physiological predictors of performance. Approach: Thirty-three healthy participants performed a task whereby an amorphous figure changed its shape according to the elicited affect (positive or neutral). During the task, the participants randomly received three different feedback approaches: real feedback, with no change of the classifier output; fixed feedback, keeping the feedback figure unmodified; and random feedback, where the classifier output was multiplied by an arbitrary value, causing a feedback different than expected by the subject. Then, we applied a multivariate comparison of the whole-connectivity profiles according to the affective states and feedback approaches, as well as during a pretask resting-state block, to predict performance. Results: Participants were able to control this feedback system with 70.00 % ± 24.43 % ( p < 0.01 ) of performance during the real feedback trials. No significant differences were found when comparing the average performances of the feedback approaches. However, the whole functional connectivity profiles presented significant Mahalanobis distances ( p ≪ 0.001 ) when comparing both affective states and all feedback approaches. Finally, task performance was positively correlated to the pretask resting-state whole functional connectivity ( r = 0.512 , p = 0.009 ). Conclusions: Our results suggest that fNIRS might be a feasible tool to develop a neurofeedback system based on the self-regulation of affective networks. This finding enables future investigations using an fNIRS-based affective neurofeedback in psychiatric populations. Furthermore, functional connectivity profiles proved to be a good predictor of performance and suggested an increased effort to maintain task control in the presence of feedback distractors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas R. Trambaiolli
- Universidade Federal do ABC, Mathematics, Computation and Cognition Center, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
- University of Quebec, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie, Matériaux, Télécommunications, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Address all correspondence to: Lucas R. Trambaiolli, E-mail:
| | - Claudinei E. Biazoli
- Universidade Federal do ABC, Mathematics, Computation and Cognition Center, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André M. Cravo
- Universidade Federal do ABC, Mathematics, Computation and Cognition Center, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tiago H. Falk
- University of Quebec, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie, Matériaux, Télécommunications, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - João R. Sato
- Universidade Federal do ABC, Mathematics, Computation and Cognition Center, Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil
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Alkoby O, Abu-Rmileh A, Shriki O, Todder D. Can We Predict Who Will Respond to Neurofeedback? A Review of the Inefficacy Problem and Existing Predictors for Successful EEG Neurofeedback Learning. Neuroscience 2018; 378:155-164. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.12.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Revised: 12/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Valderrama JT, de la Torre A, Van Dun B. An automatic algorithm for blink-artifact suppression based on iterative template matching: application to single channel recording of cortical auditory evoked potentials. J Neural Eng 2018; 15:016008. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa8d95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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45
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Choi MK, Lee SM, Ha JS, Seong PH. Development of an EEG-based workload measurement method in nuclear power plants. ANN NUCL ENERGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2017.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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46
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Botrel L, Acqualagna L, Blankertz B, Kübler A. Short progressive muscle relaxation or motor coordination training does not increase performance in a brain-computer interface based on sensorimotor rhythms (SMR). Int J Psychophysiol 2017; 121:29-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Rogala J, Jurewicz K, Paluch K, Kublik E, Cetnarski R, Wróbel A. The Do's and Don'ts of Neurofeedback Training: A Review of the Controlled Studies Using Healthy Adults. Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:301. [PMID: 27378892 PMCID: PMC4911408 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of EEG neurofeedback (EEG-NFB) training is to induce changes in the power of targeted EEG bands to produce beneficial changes in cognitive or motor function. The effectiveness of different EEG-NFB protocols can be measured using two dependent variables: (1) changes in EEG activity and (2) behavioral changes of a targeted function (for therapeutic applications the desired changes should be long-lasting). To firmly establish a causal link between these variables and the selected protocol, similar changes should not be observed when appropriate control paradigms are used. The main objective of this review is to evaluate the evidence, reported in the scientific literature, which supports the validity of various EEG-NFB protocols. Our primary concern is to highlight the role that uncontrolled nonspecific factors can play in the results generated from EEG-NFB studies. Nonspecific factors are often ignored in EEG-NFB designs or the data are not presented, which means conclusions should be interpreted cautiously. As an outcome of this review we present a do's and don'ts list, which can be used to develop future EEG-NFB methodologies, based on the small set of experiments in which the proper control groups have excluded non-EEG-NFB related effects. We found two features which positively correlated with the expected changes in power of the trained EEG band(s): (1) protocols which focused on training a smaller number of frequency bands and (2) a bigger number of electrodes used for neurofeedback training. However, we did not find evidence in support of the positive relationship between power changes of a trained frequency band(s) and specific behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Rogala
- Laboratory of Visual System, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of SciencesWarsaw, Poland
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48
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Reichert JL, Kober SE, Witte M, Neuper C, Wood G. Age-related effects on verbal and visuospatial memory are mediated by theta and alpha II rhythms. Int J Psychophysiol 2016; 99:67-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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49
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Nan W, Wan F, Vai MI, Da Rosa AC. Resting and Initial Beta Amplitudes Predict Learning Ability in Beta/Theta Ratio Neurofeedback Training in Healthy Young Adults. Front Hum Neurosci 2015; 9:677. [PMID: 26732846 PMCID: PMC4685657 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofeedback (NF) training has been proved beneficial in cognitive and behavioral performance improvement in healthy individuals. Unfortunately, the NF learning ability shows large individual difference and in a number of NF studies there are even some non-learners who cannot successfully self-regulate their brain activity by NF. This study aimed to find out the neurophysiological predictor of the learning ability in up-regulating beta-1 (15-18 Hz)/theta (4-7 Hz) ratio (BTR) training in healthy young adults. Eighteen volunteers finished five training sessions in successive 5 days. We found that low beta (12-15 Hz) amplitude in a 1-min eyes-open resting baseline measured before training and the beta-1 amplitude in the first training block with 4.5-min duration could predict the BTR learning ability across sessions. The results provide a low cost, convenient and easy way to predict the learning ability in up-regulating BTR training, and would be helpful in avoiding potential frustration and adjusting training protocol for the participants with poor learning ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenya Nan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau Macau, China
| | - Feng Wan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau Macau, China
| | - Mang I Vai
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau Macau, China
| | - Agostinho C Da Rosa
- Department of Bio Engineering, Instituto Superior Tecnico and Systems and Robotics Institute, University of Lisbon Lisbon, Portugal
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50
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Quaedflieg CWEM, Smulders FTY, Meyer T, Peeters F, Merckelbach H, Smeets T. The validity of individual frontal alpha asymmetry EEG neurofeedback. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2015; 11:33-43. [PMID: 26163671 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsv090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Frontal asymmetry in alpha oscillations is assumed to be associated with psychopathology and individual differences in emotional responding. Brain-activity-based feedback is a promising tool for the modulation of cortical activity. Here, we validated a neurofeedback protocol designed to change relative frontal asymmetry based on individual alpha peak frequencies, including real-time average referencing and eye-correction. Participants (N = 60) were randomly assigned to a right, left or placebo neurofeedback group. Results show a difference in trainability between groups, with a linear change in frontal alpha asymmetry over time for the right neurofeedback group during rest. Moreover, the asymmetry changes in the right group were frequency and location specific, even though trainability did not persist at 1 week and 1 month follow-ups. On the behavioral level, subjective stress on the second test day was reduced in the left and placebo neurofeedback groups, but not in the right neurofeedback group. We found individual differences in trainability that were dependent on training group, with participants in the right neurofeedback group being more likely to change their frontal asymmetry in the desired direction. Individual differences in trainability were also reflected in the ability to change frontal asymmetry during the feedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- C W E M Quaedflieg
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands,
| | - F T Y Smulders
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - T Meyer
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands, Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, and
| | - F Peeters
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - H Merckelbach
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - T Smeets
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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