Cogn Neurodyn. 2022 Jun;16(3):531-544. doi: 10.1007/s11571-021-09732-8. Epub 2021 Dec 2.

ABSTRACT

Timely relief of anxiety in healthy people is important, but there is little research on this topic at present. Neurofeedback training allows subjects to regulate their specific brain activities autonomously and thus alter their corresponding cognitive functions. Inattention is a significant cognitive deficit in patients with anxiety. Sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) was reported to be closely related to attention. In this study, trainability, frequency specificity, and brain-behavior relationships were utilized to verify the validity of a relative SMR power protocol. An EEG neurofeedback training system was developed for alleviating anxiety levels in healthy people. The EEG data were collected from 33 subjects during SMR up-training sessions. Subjects attended six times neurofeedback training for about 2 weeks. The feedback value of the neurofeedback group was the relative SMR power at the feedback electrode (electrode C3), while the feedback values for the control group were pseudorandom numbers. The trainability index revealed that the learning trend showed an increase in SMR power activity at the C3 electrode, confirming effects across training. The frequency specificity index revealed only that SMR band activity increased significantly in the neurofeedback group. The brain-behavior relationships index revealed that increased SMR activity correlated negatively with the severity of anxiety. This study indicates that neurofeedback training using a relative SMR power protocol, based on activity at the C3 electrode, could relieve anxiety levels for healthy people and increase the SMR power. Preliminary studies support the feasibility and efficacy of the relative SMR power protocol for healthy people with anxiety.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11571-021-09732-8.

PMID:35603045 | PMC:PMC9120321 | DOI:10.1007/s11571-021-09732-8

Front Hum Neurosci. 2022 May 6;16:890682. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.890682. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

The treatment of patients suffering from an eating disorder and a comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder is challenging and often leads to poor outcomes. In a randomized control trial, we evaluated to what extent adding Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) neurofeedback could improve symptom reduction within an established inpatient treatment program. In a randomized two-group design, patients suffering from an eating disorder (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder) and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (N = 36) were examined while attending an inpatient treatment program in a clinic for psychosomatic disorders. The intervention group received ILF neurofeedback in addition to regular therapy, while the control group received "media-supported relaxation" as a placebo intervention. At the beginning and at the end of their treatment, all participants completed the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) as a measure of eating disorder psychopathology and the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) in order to assess symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Changes in EDE-Q and IES-R scores over time served as primary outcomes as well as an increase in body mass index in underweight patients. Secondary outcomes were the perceived benefit of the received intervention, global assessment of psychological treatment success, and complications in the course of treatment. Statistical evaluation was carried out with repeated measurement analysis of variance for the primary outcomes and with t-tests and Fisher's exact test for the secondary outcomes. Our results indicate better treatment outcomes in the ILF neurofeedback group with regard to trauma-associated avoidance as well as with regard to restraint eating and increase in body weight. Furthermore, patients who had received ILF neurofeedback rated the intervention they received and, in tendency, their overall treatment more positively and they experienced fewer complications in the course of treatment. ILF neurofeedback is very well accepted by patients and seems to provide a relevant additional benefit in some aspects of symptom reduction. Findings confirm the feasibility of embedding this treatment approach in an inpatient setting and support the case for a larger study for greater statistical power. Clinical Trial Registration: "Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback training in the treatment of patients with eating disorder and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder"; German Clinical Trials Registry (https://www.drks.de; Identifier: DRKS00027826).

PMID:35601900 | PMC:PMC9121895 | DOI:10.3389/fnhum.2022.890682

Curr Psychol. 2022 May 18:1-12. doi: 10.1007/s12144-022-03190-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The physiological function of the Mu rhythm (8-13 Hz in the central region) is still unclear, particularly its role in visuomotor performance in sports (shooting vs. golf putting), as both the complexity of the motor skills (i.e., simple vs. complex visuomotor skills) and the skill level (e.g., novices vs. experts or low-skilled vs. highly skilled) may modulate Mu rhythm. To gain a broader understanding of the association between Mu rhythm and visuomotor skill performance, a study design that considers both a control moderator (the difference in skill level) and the ability to manipulate Mu rhythm (i.e., either increase or decrease Mu rhythm) is required. To achieve this, we recruited 30 novice golfers who were randomly assigned to either the increased Mu rhythm group (IMG), decreased Mu rhythm group (DMG), or sham group (SG) and used electroencephalographic-neurofeedback training (EEG-NFT) to manipulate Mu rhythm during a golf putting task (complex visuomotor skill). The aim was to determine whether the complexity of the motor skill was a potential moderator of Mu rhythm. We mainly found that Mu power was significantly decreased in the DMG following EEG-NFT, which lead to increased motor control and improved performance. We suggest that (1) the complexity of the motor skill, rather than the difference in skill level, may be a potential moderator of Mu rhythm and visuomotor performance, as our results were not consistent with a previous study that reported that increased Mu rhythm improved shooting performance (a simple visuomotor task) in novices.

PMID:35600260 | PMC:PMC9115543 | DOI:10.1007/s12144-022-03190-z

Can Oncol Nurs J. 2022 Apr 1;32(2):214-222. doi: 10.5737/23688076322214222. eCollection 2022 Spring.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Postcancer cognitive impairment (PCCI) and fatigue are adverse effects that often persist following cancer treatment, and impact quality of life. The study purpose was to evaluate feasibility and effect of neurofeedback on cognitive functioning and fatigue in cancer survivors. Specifically, we aimed to test feasibility of recruitment strategies and our study protocol including outcome measures.

DESIGN: This pilot feasibility study used a 10-week wait-list design. Participants served as their own controls and received neurofeedback training twice a week for 10 weeks.

PARTICIPANTS: The sample consisted of breast cancer survivors from Kingston, Ontario (n = 16).

METHODS: Outcomes were assessed using validated, self-report scales and neuropsychological tests before, during, and after neurofeedback.

FINDINGS: The neurofeedback protocol was feasible and resulted in significant decreases in perceived cognitive deficits, fatigue, sleep, and psychological symptoms.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL PROVIDERS: Neurofeedback may be an effective, non-invasive complementary therapy for PCCI in breast cancer survivors.

PMID:35582249 | PMC:PMC9040776 | DOI:10.5737/23688076322214222

Neuroimage. 2022 May 14;257:119295. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119295. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Real-time fMRI (RT-fMRI) neurofeedback has been shown to be effective in treating neuropsychiatric disorders and holds tremendous promise for future breakthroughs, both with regard to basic science and clinical applications. However, the prevalence of its use has been hampered by computing hardware requirements, the complexity of setting up and running an experiment, and a lack of standards that would foster collaboration. To address these issues, we have developed RT-Cloud (https://github.com/brainiak/rt-cloud), a flexible, cloud-based, open-source Python software package for the execution of RT-fMRI experiments. RT-Cloud uses standardized data formats and adaptable processing streams to support and expand open science in RT-fMRI research and applications. Cloud computing is a key enabling technology for advancing RT-fMRI because it eliminates the need for on-premise technical expertise and high-performance computing; this allows installation, configuration, and maintenance to be automated and done remotely. Furthermore, the scalability of cloud computing makes it easier to deploy computationally-demanding multivariate analyses in real time. In this paper, we describe how RT-Cloud has been integrated with open standards, including the Brain Imaging Data Structure (BIDS) standard and the OpenNeuro database, how it has been applied thus far, and our plans for further development and deployment of RT-Cloud in the coming years.

PMID:35580808 | DOI:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119295

Exp Brain Res. 2022 May 16. doi: 10.1007/s00221-022-06380-0. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The timing ability plays an important role in everyday activities and is influenced by several factors such as the attention and arousal levels of the individuals. The effects of these factors on time perception have been interpreted through psychological models of time, including Attentional Gate Model (AGM). On the other hand, research has indicated that neurofeedback (NFB) training improves attention and increases arousal levels in the clinical and healthy population. Regarding the link between attentional processing and arousal levels and NFB and their relation to time perception, this study is a pilot demonstration of the influence of SMR-Beta1 (12-18 Hz) NFB training on time production and reproduction performance in healthy adults. To this end, 12 (9 female and 3 males; M = 26.3, SD = 3.8) and 12 participants (7 female and 5 males; M = 26.9, SD = 3.1) were randomly assigned into the experimental (with SMR-Beta1 NFB) and control groups (without any NFB training), respectively. The experimental group underwent intensive 10 sessions (3 days a week) of the 12-18 Hz up-training. Time production and reproduction performance were assessed pre and post NFB training for all participants. Three-way mixed ANOVA was carried out on T-corrected scores of reproduction and production tasks. Correlation analysis was also performed between SMR-Beta1 and time perception. While NFB training significantly influenced time production (P < 0.01), no such effect was observed for the time reproduction task. The results of the study are finally discussed within the frameworks of AGM, dual-process and cognitive aspects of time perception. Overall, our results contribute to disentangling the underlying mechanisms of temporal performance in healthy individuals.

PMID:35576072 | DOI:10.1007/s00221-022-06380-0

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 May 2;19(9):5531. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19095531.

ABSTRACT

This study examined the effects of a 4-week cognitive training program with neurofeedback (CT-NF) among 86 healthy adults (M = 66.34 years, range 54-84) randomized to either a treatment (app-based ABC games) or control (Tetris) group. Participants completed seven cognitive assessments, pre- and post-intervention, and measured their cortical brain activity using a XB-01 functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) brain sensor, while engaging in CT-NF. The treatment (ABC) group showed significant (pre/post-intervention) improvements in memory (MEM), verbal memory (VBM), and composite cognitive function, while the control group did not. However, both groups showed significant improvements in processing speed (PS) and executive function (EF). In line with other studies, we found that strength of cortical brain activity (measured during CT-NF) was associated with both cognitive (pre and post) and game performance. In sum, our findings suggest that CT-NF and specifically ABC exercises, confer improved cognition in the domains of MEM, VBM, PS, and EF.

PMID:35564926 | PMC:PMC9104766 | DOI:10.3390/ijerph19095531

J Neural Eng. 2022 May 13. doi: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac6f81. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Real-time fMRI neurofeedback is a non-invasive procedure allowing the self-regulation of brain functions via enhanced self-control of fMRI based neural activation. In semantic real-time fMRI neurofeedback, an estimated relation between multivariate fMRI activation patterns and abstract mental states is exploited for a multi-dimensional feedback stimulus via real-time representational similarity analysis (rt-RSA). Here, we assessed the performances of this framework in a multi-subject multi-session study on a 3T MRI clinical scanner.

APPROACH: Eighteen healthy volunteers underwent two semantic real-time fMRI neurofeedback sessions on two different days. In each session, participants were first requested to engage in specific mental states while local fMRI patterns of brain activity were recorded during stimulated mental imagery of concrete objects (pattern generation). The obtained neural representations were to be replicated and modulated by the participants in subsequent runs of the same session under the guidance of a rt-RSA generated visual feedback (pattern modulation). Performance indicators were derived from the rt-RSA output to assess individual abilities in replicating (and maintaining over time) a target pattern. Simulations were carried out to assess the impact of the geometric distortions implied by the low-dimensional representation of patterns' dissimilarities in the visual feedback.

MAIN RESULTS: Sixteen subjects successfully completed both semantic real-time fMRI neurofeedback sessions. Considering some performance indicators, a significant improvement between the first and the second runs, and within run increasing modulation performances were observed, whereas no improvements were found between sessions. Simulations confirmed that in a small percentage of cases visual feedback could be affected by metric distortions due to dimensionality reduction implicit to the rt-RSA approach.

SIGNIFICANCE: Our results proved the feasibility of the semantic real-time fMRI neurofeedback at 3T, showing that subjects can successfully modulate and maintain a target mental state, guided by rt-RSA derived feedback. Further development is needed to encourage future clinical applications.

PMID:35561669 | DOI:10.1088/1741-2552/ac6f81

Asian J Psychiatr. 2022 Apr 25:103133. doi: 10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103133. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders of childhood. Treatment of ADHD includes medications and Behavioural interventions. Neurofeedback, a type of biofeedback, has been found to be useful in ADHD. It helps patients to control their brain waves consciously. However, it is not yet conclusive if it is efficacious in comparison to behavioural management training and medication.

AIM: To compare the efficacy of neurofeedback training, behaviour management including attention enhancement training and medication in children with ADHD.

METHOD: Ninety children between 6 and 12 years with ADHD were taken and randomly divided into 3 treatment groups equally- neurofeedback, behaviour management and medication (methylphenidate). Conners 3-P Short Scale was applied for baseline assessment. The respective interventions were given and follow up was done at the end of 3 months by using Conners 3-P Short scale to assess the improvement in the symptoms. There were 6 dropouts, the final sample size was 84.

RESULTS: The medication group showed the greatest reduction of symptoms in inattention, hyperactivity, executive functioning domain (core symptoms of ADHD). No statistically significant difference was observed between Neurofeedback and Behaviour Management in these domains. Learning problems improved in all three groups, neurofeedback being the most effective followed by medication. Both Neurofeedback and Medication groups showed similar effect which was higher than the Behavioural Management group in Peer Relation.

CONCLUSION: Improvement in core ADHD symptoms have been observed with all 3 interventions with medication showing the greatest improvement Neurofeedback has been superior for learning problems. Thus, Neurofeedback can be an independent or combined intervention tool for children with ADHD in outpatient department of Psychiatry.

PMID:35551878 | DOI:10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103133

Trends Neurosci. 2022 May 9:S0166-2236(22)00059-5. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.03.008. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Despite decades of experimental and clinical practice, the neuropsychological mechanisms underlying neurofeedback (NF) training remain obscure. NF is a unique form of reinforcement learning (RL) task, during which participants are provided with rewarding feedback regarding desired changes in neural patterns. However, key RL considerations - including choices during practice, prediction errors, credit-assignment problems, or the exploration-exploitation tradeoff - have infrequently been considered in the context of NF. We offer an RL-based framework for NF, describing different internal states, actions, and rewards in common NF protocols, thus fashioning new proposals for characterizing, predicting, and hastening the course of learning. In this way we hope to advance current understanding of neural regulation via NF, and ultimately to promote its effectiveness, personalization, and clinical utility.

PMID:35550813 | DOI:10.1016/j.tins.2022.03.008

Front Hum Neurosci. 2022 Apr 25;16:838080. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.838080. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The contingent negative variation (CNV) is a well-studied indicator of attention- and expectancy-related processes in the human brain. An abnormal CNV amplitude has been found in diverse neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders. However, its role as a potential biomarker of successful clinical interventions in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains unclear.

METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, we investigated how the CNV changes following an intensive neurofeedback training. Therefore, twenty-one adolescents with ASD underwent 24 sessions of slow cortical potential (SCP) neurofeedback training. Twenty additional adolescents with ASD formed a control group and received treatment as usual. CNV waveforms were obtained from a continuous performance test (CPT), which all adolescents performed before and after the corresponding 3-month long training period. In order to utilize all available neural time series, trial-based area under the curve values for all four electroencephalogram (EEG) channels were analyzed with a hierarchical Bayesian model. In addition, the model included impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity as potential moderators of change in CNV.

RESULTS: Our model implies that impulsivity moderates the effects of neurofeedback training on CNV depending on group. In the control group, the average CNV amplitude decreased or did not change after treatment as usual. In the experimental group, the CNV changed depending on the severity of comorbid impulsivity symptoms. The average CNV amplitude of participants with low impulsivity scores decreased markedly, whereas the average CNV amplitude of participants with high impulsivity increased.

CONCLUSION: The degree of impulsivity seems to play a crucial role in the changeability of the CNV following an intensive neurofeedback training. Therefore, comorbid symptomatology should be recorded and analyzed in future EEG-based brain training interventions.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://www.drks.de, identifier DRKS00012339.

PMID:35547196 | PMC:PMC9082644 | DOI:10.3389/fnhum.2022.838080

Neuroimage Clin. 2022 Apr 26:103008. doi: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103008. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35525708 | DOI:10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103008

Prog Neurobiol. 2022 May 2;214:102278. doi: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102278. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Affect signaling in human communication involves cortico-limbic brain systems for affect information decoding, such as expressed in vocal intonations during affective speech. Both, the affecto-acoustic speech profile of speakers and the cortico-limbic affect recognition network of listeners were previously identified using non-social and non-adaptive research protocols. However, these protocols neglected the inherent socio-dyadic nature of affective communication, thus underestimating the real-time adaptive dynamics of affective speech that maximize listeners' neural effects and affect recognition. To approximate this socio-adaptive and neural context of affective communication, we used an innovative real-time neuroimaging setup that linked speakers' live affective speech production with listeners' limbic brain signals that served as a proxy for affect recognition. We show that affective speech communication is acoustically more distinctive, adaptive, and individualized in a live adaptive setting and more efficiently capitalizes on neural affect decoding mechanisms in limbic and associated networks than non-adaptive affective speech communication. Only live affective speech produced in adaption to listeners' limbic signals was closely linked to their emotion recognition as quantified by speakers' acoustics and listeners' emotional rating correlations. Furthermore, while live and adaptive aggressive speaking directly modulated limbic activity in listeners, joyful speaking modulated limbic activity in connection with the ventral striatum that is, amongst others, involved in the processing of pleasure. Thus, evolved neural mechanisms for affect decoding seem largely optimized for interactive and individually adaptive communicative contexts.

PMID:35513165 | DOI:10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102278

Curr Phys Med Rehabil Rep. 2022;10(2):77-88. doi: 10.1007/s40141-022-00348-5. Epub 2022 Apr 26.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Telehealth and telerehabilitation in spinal cord injury (teleSCI) is a growing field that can improve access to care and improve health outcomes in the spinal cord injury population. This review provides an overview of the recent literature on the topic of teleSCI and provides insights on current evidence, future directions, and considerations when using teleSCI for clinical care.

RECENT FINDINGS: TeleSCI is used most often for preventive health; management of chronic pain, anxiety, and depression; and rehabilitation-related interventions. As video telehealth becomes mainstream, growth in wearable monitors, bio and neurofeedback mechanisms, and app-based care is expected.

SUMMARY: TeleSCI is growing in prevalence, demonstrates positive impact on health outcomes, and requires ongoing study to identify, refine, and implement best practices.

PMID:35493027 | PMC:PMC9039273 | DOI:10.1007/s40141-022-00348-5

Child Psychiatry Hum Dev. 2022 Apr 26. doi: 10.1007/s10578-022-01361-4. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Neurofeedback training is a common treatment option for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Given theta/beta-based neurofeedback (T/B NF) training targets at the electrophysiological characteristics of children with ADHD, benefits for attention may be expected. PsycINFO, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched through December 31, 2020. Studies were evaluated with Risk of Bias tools. Within-group effects based on Pre- and Post-treatment comparisons of the Intervention Group, and Between-group effects based on the between-group differences from Pre-treatment to Post-treatment were calculated. Nineteen studies met selection criteria for systematic review, 12 of them were included in meta-analysis. Within-group effects were medium at Post-treatment and large at Follow-up. Between-group analyses revealed that T/B NF was superior to waitlist control and physical activities, but not stimulant medication. Results showed that T/B NF has benefits for attention in children with ADHD, however, cautions should be taken when interpreting the findings.

PMID:35471754 | DOI:10.1007/s10578-022-01361-4

Artif Organs. 2022 Jun;46(6):985-986. doi: 10.1111/aor.14249. Epub 2022 Apr 25.

ABSTRACT

Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis may enter into a completely locked-in state without any capability for communication using neuromuscular output. Using an auditory-guided neurofeedback-based strategy with implantable sensors in the motor cortex, scientists were able to help a patient in this state produce intelligible sentences.

PMID:35467033 | DOI:10.1111/aor.14249

Front Psychol. 2022 Apr 8;13:871022. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.871022. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.568921.].

PMID:35465555 | PMC:PMC9024402 | DOI:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.871022

Front Hum Neurosci. 2022 Apr 8;16:831995. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.831995. eCollection 2022.

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.

PMID:35463935 | PMC:PMC9026187 | DOI:10.3389/fnhum.2022.831995

Brain Behav. 2022 Apr 24:e2572. doi: 10.1002/brb3.2572. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the effects of three courses of different structural patterns of electroencephalography neurofeedback on predominantly inattentive attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD-PI) and combined ADHD (ADHD-CT).

METHODS: Thirty-eight ADHD-PI and ADHD-CT children were selected and completed three courses of different structural patterns of electroencephalography neurofeedback according to their ADHD type. Before and after each course, relative power value of electroencephalography, including θ, β, α, SMR and their ratios (θ/β, θ/α), and eighteen integrated visual and auditory continuous performance test (IVA/CPT) quotients were obtained and compared. Data were analyzed by SPSS software, and p < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS: After one course, θ, three IVA/CPT quotients in both types and two comprehensive quotients in ADHD-CT changed significantly (all p < .05). After two courses, θ/α, θ/β and five IVA/CPT quotients in both types, θ and α in ADHD-PI, four comprehensive quotients, and four respond control quotients in ADHD-CT varied significantly compared to before treatment and after one course (all p < .05). After three courses, α, β, θ, θ/α, θ/β and ten IVA/CPT quotients in both types changed significantly compared to before treatment and after one course (all p < .05). In addition, six IVA/CPT quotients in both types after three courses were significantly higher than those after two courses (all p < .05).

CONCLUSION: Different structural patterns of electroencephalography neurofeedback targeted for ADHD-CT and ADHD-PI were both effective and feasible. Three courses of EEG neurofeedback were most effective.

PMID:35462456 | DOI:10.1002/brb3.2572

Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2022 Mar 29;58:102124. doi: 10.1016/j.ejon.2022.102124. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the best available evidence regarding the use of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques for managing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).

METHODS: A systematic literature search of the following databases from their inception to October 17, 2021 was performed and was updated on March 2, 2022: AMED via Ovid, CINAHL via the EBSCO Host, Cochrane Library, Embase, PEDro, PubMed, and Web of Science. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies examining the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques for managing established CIPN were identified. Narrative synthesis was used to analyze data collected from the included studies.

RESULTS: Nine RCTs and nine quasi-experimental studies were included. A variety of non-invasive peripheral and central neuromodulation techniques were investigated in those studies, including scrambler therapy, electrical stimulations, photobiomodulation, magnetic field therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, neurofeedback, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Non-invasive neuromodulation techniques for the management of established CIPN are generally safe and feasible. The efficacy of peripheral neuromodulation techniques such as scrambler therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation was mostly unsatisfactory, while central neuromodulation techniques such as neurofeedback and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation were promising.

CONCLUSIONS: The use of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques for managing CIPN is still in its infancy. Non-invasive central neuromodulation techniques have significant potential for relieving chronic pain and neuropathic symptoms related to CIPN, meriting further exploration.

PMID:35461045 | DOI:10.1016/j.ejon.2022.102124

J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2022 Apr 21. doi: 10.1097/HTR.0000000000000778. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To examine the evidence levels, study characteristics, and outcomes of nonpharmacologic complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) interventions in rehabilitation for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE (OvidSP), PubMed (NLM), EMBASE (Embase.com), CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (OvidSP), Cochrane Library (Wiley), and National Guidelines Clearinghouse databases were evaluated using PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered in INPLASY (protocol registration: INPLASY202160071).

DATA EXTRACTION: Quantitative studies published between 1992 and 2020 investigating the efficacy of CIM for individuals with TBI of any severity, age, and outcome were included. Special diets, herbal and dietary supplements, and counseling/psychological interventions were excluded, as were studies with mixed samples if TBI data could not be extracted. A 2-level review comprised title/abstract screening, followed by full-text assessment by 2 independent reviewers.

DATA SYNTHESIS: In total, 90 studies were included, with 57 001 patients in total. This total includes 2 retrospective studies with 17 475 and 37 045 patients. Of the 90 studies, 18 (20%) were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The remainder included 20 quasi-experimental studies (2-group or 1-group pre/posttreatment comparison), 9 retrospective studies, 1 single-subject study design, 2 mixed-methods designs, and 40 case study/case reports. Guided by the American Academy of Neurology evidence levels, class II criteria were met by 61% of the RCTs. Included studies examined biofeedback/neurofeedback (40%), acupuncture (22%), yoga/tai chi (11%), meditation/mindfulness/relaxation (11%), and chiropractic/osteopathic manipulation (11%). The clinical outcomes evaluated across studies included physical impairments (62%), mental health (49%), cognitive impairments (39%), pain (31%), and activities of daily living/quality of life (28%). Additional descriptive statistics were summarized using narrative synthesis. Of the studies included for analyses, 97% reported overall positive benefits of CIM.

CONCLUSION: Rigorous and well experimentally designed studies (including RCTs) are needed to confirm the initial evidence supporting the use of CIM found in the existing literature.

PMID:35452024 | DOI:10.1097/HTR.0000000000000778

Sci Rep. 2022 Apr 19;12(1):6467. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-10840-6.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35440616 | PMC:PMC9019023 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-022-10840-6

Indian J Med Res. 2021 Apr;154(4):583-591. doi: 10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_941_20.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: Working memory impairments in the subjects of opioid addiction may stem from an aberrant cortical activity in the executive areas, and may help in early identification of individuals with addictive tendencies and may also be used as a neurofeedback mechanism in adjunct to the existing therapeutics.

METHODS: Electrical neuroimaging via 128-channel electroencephalography (EEG) recording was done in 15 male subjects with opioid addiction (29.45±5.6 yr) during the performance of Sternberg Working Memory Task. EEG data were acquired and analyzed for cortical sources during task as compared to resting (baseline) condition.

RESULTS: Working memory deficits were manifested as decrease in accuracy percentage in the subjects with opioid addiction, while no significant difference was seen in reaction time, on comparison with laboratory-acquired matched controls. Standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA)-based EEG source analysis revealed higher cortical activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, inferior, middle and superior temporal gyri, inferior frontal gyrus, superior parietal lobule, inferior parietal lobule and precuneus, whereas significant lower activity was seen in superior and middle frontal gyri, parietal lobule, cingulate cortex and pre- and postcentral gyri when the task was compared to baseline in the subjects with opioid addiction. Further, a negative correlation was seen between the accuracy of task performance and activation ratio for the significant gyri in the subjects with opioid addiction.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS: EEG cortical sources revealed the failure of deactivation of default-mode network (DMN) during the task amongst the subjects with opioid addiction. In addition, there was a decrease in the executive function areas in the subjects with opioid addiction. This lack of sufficiently active executive network and persistence of DMN during the task (as compared to baseline) may potentially form the basis of functional impairments in the subjects with opioid addiction.

PMID:35435343 | DOI:10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_941_20

Data Brief. 2022 Mar 26;42:108066. doi: 10.1016/j.dib.2022.108066. eCollection 2022 Jun.

ABSTRACT

The datasets described here comprise electroencephalography (EEG) data and psychometric data freely available on data.mendeley.com. The EEG data is available in .mat formatted files containing the EEG signal values structured in two-dimensional (2D) matrices, with channel data and trigger information in rows, and samples in columns (having a sampling rate of 250Hz). Twenty-nine female survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, underwent a psychological assessment before and after an intervention aimed at reducing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptom severity. Three measures of trauma and four measures of wellbeing were assessed using empirically validated standardised assessments. The pre- and post- intervention psychometric data were analysed using non-parametric statistical methods and the post-intervention data were further evaluated according to diagnostic assessment rules to determine clinically relevant improvements for each group. The participants were assigned to a control group (CG, n = 9), a motor-imagery group (MI, n = 10), and a neurofeedback group (NF, n = 10). Participants in the latter two groups received Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) based training as a treatment intervention over a sixteen-day period, between the pre- and post- clinical interviews. The training involved presenting feedback visually via a videogame, based on real-time analysis of the EEG recorded data during the BCI-based treatment session. Participants were asked to regulate (NF) or intentionally modulate (MI) brain activity to affect/control the game.

PMID:35434211 | PMC:PMC9011039 | DOI:10.1016/j.dib.2022.108066

Front Hum Neurosci. 2022 Mar 31;16:837972. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.837972. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

Theoretical considerations related to neurological post-COVID complications have become a serious issue in the COVID pandemic. We propose 3 theoretical hypotheses related to neurological post-COVID complications. First, pathophysiological processes responsible for long-term neurological complications caused by COVID-19 might have 2 phases: (1) Phase of acute Sars-CoV-2 infection linked with the pathogenesis responsible for the onset of COVID-19-related neurological complications and (2) the phase of post-acute Sars-CoV-2 infection linked with the pathogenesis responsible for long-lasting persistence of post-COVID neurological problems and/or exacerbation of another neurological pathologies. Second, post-COVID symptoms can be described and investigated from the perspective of dynamical system theory exploiting its fundamental concepts such as system parameters, attractors and criticality. Thirdly, neurofeedback may represent a promising therapy for neurological post-COVID complications. Based on the current knowledge related to neurofeedback and what is already known about neurological complications linked to acute COVID-19 and post-acute COVID-19 conditions, we propose that neurofeedback modalities, such as functional magnetic resonance-based neurofeedback, quantitative EEG-based neurofeedback, Othmer's method of rewarding individual optimal EEG frequency and heart rate variability-based biofeedback, represent a potential therapy for improvement of post-COVID symptoms.

PMID:35431842 | PMC:PMC9010738 | DOI:10.3389/fnhum.2022.837972

Trends Neurosci. 2022 Jun;45(6):415-416. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.03.009. Epub 2022 Apr 12.

ABSTRACT

A recent study by Sampaio-Baptista and colleagues showed that bidirectionally white matter plasticity can be elicited 24 h after a short regime of neurofeedback (NF) training in healthy individuals. The findings reinforce NF as a tool to induce brain plasticity while highlighting it as a promising intervention for clinical populations.

PMID:35428528 | DOI:10.1016/j.tins.2022.03.009

Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy. 2022 Apr 15;17(1):28. doi: 10.1186/s13011-022-00458-2.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Neurofeedback (NF) has been described as "probably efficacious" when used in conjunction with other interventions for substance use disorders, including the recent studies in the population of individuals with opioid use disorder. Despite these promising outcomes, the seriousness of the opioid epidemic, and the high rate of relapse even with the most effective medication-assisted maintenance treatments NF continues to be an under-researched treatment modality. This article explores factors that affected the feasibility of adding Alpha/Theta Neurofeedback to treatment as usual for opioid dependence in an outpatient urban treatment center. The study strived to replicate previous research completed in Iran that found benefits of NF for opioid dependence.

METHODS: Out of approximately two dozen patients eligible for Alpha/Theta NF, about 60% (n = 15) agreed to participate; however, only 2 participants completed treatment. The rates of enrollment in response to active treatment were monitored.

RESULTS: The 4 factors affecting feasibility were: (1) the time commitment required of participants and providers, (2) ineffectiveness of standard incentives to promote participation, (3) delayed effects of training, and (4) the challenges of researching treatment options not reimbursed by the insurance companies.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that a large-scale study examining the use of NF for the treatment of opioid use disorder in the United States will likely be difficult to accomplish without modification to the traditional randomized control study approach and suggests challenges to the implementation of this treatment in an outpatient setting. A single-case methodology is proposed as a viable alternative.

PMID:35428348 | PMC:PMC9013036 | DOI:10.1186/s13011-022-00458-2

Front Aging Neurosci. 2022 Mar 28;14:780817. doi: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.780817. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

Growing evidence supports the idea that the ultimate biofeedback is to reward sensory pleasure (e.g., enhanced visual clarity) in real-time to neural circuits that are associated with a desired performance, such as excellent memory retrieval. Neurofeedback is biofeedback that uses real-time sensory reward to brain activity associated with a certain performance (e.g., accurate and fast recall). Working memory is a key component of human intelligence. The challenges are in our current limited understanding of neurocognitive dysfunctions as well as in technical difficulties for closed-loop feedback in true real-time. Here we review recent advancements of real time neurofeedback to improve memory training in healthy young and older adults. With new advancements in neuromarkers of specific neurophysiological functions, neurofeedback training should be better targeted beyond a single frequency approach to include frequency interactions and event-related potentials. Our review confirms the positive trend that neurofeedback training mostly works to improve memory and cognition to some extent in most studies. Yet, the training typically takes multiple weeks with 2-3 sessions per week. We review various neurofeedback reward strategies and outcome measures. A well-known issue in such training is that some people simply do not respond to neurofeedback. Thus, we also review the literature of individual differences in psychological factors e.g., placebo effects and so-called "BCI illiteracy" (Brain Computer Interface illiteracy). We recommend the use of Neural modulation sensitivity or BCI insensitivity in the neurofeedback literature. Future directions include much needed research in mild cognitive impairment, in non-Alzheimer's dementia populations, and neurofeedback using EEG features during resting and sleep for memory enhancement and as sensitive outcome measures.

PMID:35418848 | PMC:PMC8995767 | DOI:10.3389/fnagi.2022.780817

Cortex. 2022 Jun;151:133-146. doi: 10.1016/j.cortex.2022.02.017. Epub 2022 Mar 19.

ABSTRACT

The alignment between low-frequency activity in the brain and slow acoustic modulations in the speech signal depicts a core principle in present theories of speech perception-a process referred to as 'neural speech tracking'. While most older adults, particularly those with highly prevalent age-related hearing loss, have difficulties with speech perception and comprehension, the impact of hearing loss on neural speech tracking is still unclear. In this study we investigated the effects of pure-tone hearing loss and different types of background noise on the neural tracking response in a large sample of older adults (N = 101). Furthermore, we examined whether the neural tracking response was predictive for speech comprehension. For this purpose, we obtained scalp EEG from our participants who had varying degrees of pure-tone hearing loss (7.5-59.6 dB HL for .5-8 kHz pure tones) while they listened to sentences in quiet, pink and multi-talker babble noise. Speech tracking was quantified by computing the cross-correlation between the EEG signal and the amplitude envelope of the sentences heard. A higher degree of pure-tone hearing loss was associated with greater neural speech tracking (i.e., greater cross-correlation). Additionally, neural speech tracking showed a positive association with speech comprehension. This relationship was modulated by the degree of pure-tone hearing loss with hearing-impaired participants benefitting more from greater neural speech tracking. Our results highlight the potential of neural speech tracking as an objective measure of speech comprehension and as a possible target mechanism for clinical interventions such as neurofeedback. Furthermore, the interaction between speech tracking and pure-tone hearing loss suggests a compensatory mechanism by which the hearing-impaired rely more on slow amplitude modulations in the speech signal.

PMID:35405539 | DOI:10.1016/j.cortex.2022.02.017

Front Neurol. 2022 Mar 21;13:714913. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2022.714913. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

A specific variant of neurofeedback therapy (NFT), Live Z-Score Training (LZT), can be configured to not target specific EEG frequencies, networks, or regions of the brain, thereby permitting implicit and flexible modulation of EEG activity. In this exploratory analysis, the relationship between post-LZT changes in EEG activity and self-reported symptom reduction is evaluated in a sample of patients with persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS). Penalized regressions were used to identify EEG metrics associated with changes in physical, cognitive, and affective symptoms; the predictive capacity of EEG variables selected by the penalized regressions were subsequently validated using linear regression models. Post-treatment changes in theta/alpha ratio predicted reduction in pain intensity and cognitive symptoms and changes in beta-related power metrics predicted improvements in affective symptoms. No EEG changes were associated with changes in a majority of physical symptoms. These data highlight the potential for NFT to target specific EEG patterns to provide greater treatment precision for PPCS patients. This exploratory analysis is intended to promote the refinement of NFT treatment protocols to improve outcomes for patients with PPCS.

PMID:35392637 | PMC:PMC8979790 | DOI:10.3389/fneur.2022.714913

Indian J Med Res. 2022 Apr 6. doi: 10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_941_20. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: : Working memory impairments in the subjects of opioid addiction may stem from an aberrant cortical activity in the executive areas, and may help in early identification of individuals with addictive tendencies and may also be used as a neurofeedback mechanism in adjunct to the existing therapeutics.

METHODS: : Electrical neuroimaging via 128-channel electroencephalography (EEG) recording was done in 15 male subjects with opioid addiction (29.45±5.6 yr) during the performance of Sternberg Working Memory Task. EEG data were acquired and analyzed for cortical sources during task as compared to resting (baseline) condition.

RESULTS: : Working memory deficits were manifested as decrease in accuracy percentage in the subjects with opioid addiction, while no significant difference was seen in reaction time, on comparison with laboratory-acquired matched controls. Standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA)-based EEG source analysis revealed higher cortical activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, inferior, middle and superior temporal gyri, inferior frontal gyrus, superior parietal lobule, inferior parietal lobule and precuneus, whereas significant lower activity was seen in superior and middle frontal gyri, parietal lobule, cingulate cortex and pre- and postcentral gyri when the task was compared to baseline in the subjects with opioid addiction. Further, a negative correlation was seen between the accuracy of task performance and activation ratio for the significant gyri in the subjects with opioid addiction.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS: : EEG cortical sources revealed the failure of deactivation of default-mode network (DMN) during the task amongst the subjects with opioid addiction. In addition, there was a decrease in the executive function areas in the subjects with opioid addiction. This lack of sufficiently active executive network and persistence of DMN during the task (as compared to baseline) may potentially form the basis of functional impairments in the subjects with opioid addiction.

PMID:35381704 | DOI:10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_941_20

Kobe J Med Sci. 2021 Dec 24;67(4):E125-E136.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: EEG Neurofeedback training is an accepted non-pharmacological therapy for attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although stimulant medication is known to decrease ADHD symptoms, possible adverse effects, concerns about prolonged drug use on neural development, and problems related to the compliance with the medications are often reported. In Indonesia, research on the feasibility of EEG Neurofeedback to treat ADHD is still lacking. The current study aimed to investigate whether setting up an EEG neurofeedback training program for children with ADHD would be feasible in Indonesia.

METHODS: Nine children (aged 6-12 years) participated in the study. ADHD was diagnosed using the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scale (VADRS). Children received twenty-five sessions of sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) neurofeedback training twice a week. Each session consisted of a 3-minute baseline, followed by 5*3 minutes of training. IQ scores and VADRS scores were collected at baseline, after completion of the intervention, and at 3 months follow-up, while school reports were provided by the schools. The EEG spectral content was determined for all 25 training sessions. In addition, a Go/No-Go Task, was administered at the first 5 training sessions, and at session 10, 15, 20 and 25.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: An overview of all the collected data is provided descriptively, given the small group size. One child dropped-out during the training because of parental request, but the remaining eight children completed the full intervention program. Descriptive data suggested improvement with respect to both the ADHD symptomatology and performance IQ. These findings are in line with previous studies. Although a control arm was not included, we propose that the abovementioned SMR neurofeedback protocol may still be offered as a suitable non-pharmacological intervention for children with ADHD in Indonesia and deserves further research.

PMID:35367999

Front Neurosci. 2022 Mar 11;16:834827. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2022.834827. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

Real-time fMRI (rtfMRI) has enormous potential for both mechanistic brain imaging studies or treatment-oriented neuromodulation. However, the adaption of rtfMRI has been limited due to technical difficulties in implementing an efficient computational framework. Here, we introduce a python library for real-time fMRI (rtfMRI) data processing systems, Real-Time Processing System in python (RTPSpy), to provide building blocks for a custom rtfMRI application with extensive and advanced functionalities. RTPSpy is a library package including (1) a fast, comprehensive, and flexible online fMRI image processing modules comparable to offline denoising, (2) utilities for fast and accurate anatomical image processing to define an anatomical target region, (3) a simulation system of online fMRI processing to optimize a pipeline and target signal calculation, (4) simple interface to an external application for feedback presentation, and (5) a boilerplate graphical user interface (GUI) integrating operations with RTPSpy library. The fast and accurate anatomical image processing utility wraps external tools, including FastSurfer, ANTs, and AFNI, to make tissue segmentation and region of interest masks. We confirmed that the quality of the output masks was comparable with FreeSurfer, and the anatomical image processing could complete in a few minutes. The modular nature of RTPSpy provides the ability to use it for a simulation analysis to optimize a processing pipeline and target signal calculation. We present a sample script for building a real-time processing pipeline and running a simulation using RTPSpy. The library also offers a simple signal exchange mechanism with an external application using a TCP/IP socket. While the main components of the RTPSpy are the library modules, we also provide a GUI class for easy access to the RTPSpy functions. The boilerplate GUI application provided with the package allows users to develop a customized rtfMRI application with minimum scripting labor. The limitations of the package as it relates to environment-specific implementations are discussed. These library components can be customized and can be used in parts. Taken together, RTPSpy is an efficient and adaptable option for developing rtfMRI applications. Code available at: https://github.com/mamisaki/RTPSpy.

PMID:35360171 | PMC:PMC8963181 | DOI:10.3389/fnins.2022.834827

Front Neurosci. 2022 Mar 10;16:821136. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2022.821136. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Internalizing disorders (IDs), e.g., major depressive disorder (MDD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are the most prevalent psychopathologies experienced worldwide. Current first-line therapies (i.e., pharmacotherapy and/or psychotherapy) offer high failure rates, limited accessibility, and substantial side-effects. Electroencephalography (EEG) guided closed-loop brain training, also known as EEG-neurofeedback (EEG-NFB), is believed to be a safe and effective alternative, however, there is much debate in the field regarding the existence of specificity [i.e., clinical effects specific to the modulation of the targeted EEG variable(s)]. This review was undertaken to determine if there is evidence for EEG-NFB specificity in the treatment of IDs.

METHODS: We considered only randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trials. Outcomes of interest included self/parent/teacher reports and clinician ratings of ID-related symptomatology.

RESULTS: Of the four reports (total participant number = 152) meeting our eligibility criteria, three had point estimates suggesting small to moderate effect sizes favoring genuine therapy over sham, however, due to small sample sizes, all 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were wide and spanned the null. The fourth trial had yet to post results as of the submission date of this review. The limited overall number of eligible reports (and participants), large degree of inter-trial heterogeneity, and restricted span of ID populations with published/posted outcome data (i.e., PTSD and OCD) precluded a quantitative synthesis.

DISCUSSION: The current literature suggests that EEG-NFB may induce specific effects in the treatment of some forms of IDs, however, the evidence is very limited. Ultimately, more randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trials encompassing a wider array of ID populations are needed to determine the existence and, if present, degree of EEG-NFB specificity in the treatment of IDs.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42020159702].

PMID:35360168 | PMC:PMC8960197 | DOI:10.3389/fnins.2022.821136

Psych J. 2022 Mar 31. doi: 10.1002/pchj.544. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This paper reflects on the use of neurotherapeutics for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is the most imaged child psychiatric disorder, with over 3 decades of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) research. Findings are relatively homogeneous compared to other psychiatric conditions with consistent evidence for differences, albeit small, relative to healthy controls in the structure and function of several frontal, parietotemporal, and striatal brain regions as well as their inter-regional structural and functional connections. The functional deficits have been targeted with modern neurotherapeutics, including neurofeedback (using most commonly electroencephalography and more recently functional near-infrared spectroscopy and functional MRI) and non-invasive brain stimulation (such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, or external trigeminal nerve stimulation). Except for electroencephalography-neurofeedback, the majority of neurotherapeutic studies have been relatively small, with very heterogenous research protocols and outcome measures and-likely as a consequence-inconsistent findings. Furthermore, most brain stimulation studies have tested effects on cognitive functions rather than clinical symptoms. So far, findings have not been very promising. Future studies require systematic testing of optimal protocols in large samples or homogenous subgroups to understand response prediction that could lead to individualized treatment.

PMID:35359026 | DOI:10.1002/pchj.544

Nutr Neurosci. 2022 Mar 28:1-16. doi: 10.1080/1028415X.2022.2053406. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Strong reward responsiveness to food and insufficient inhibitory control are thought to be implicated in the development and maintenance of obesity. This narrative review addresses the role of inhibitory control in obesity and weight loss, and in how far inhibitory control is a promising target for weight loss interventions.

METHODS: PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched for papers up to May 2021. 41 papers were included.

RESULTS: Individuals with obesity have poorer food-specific inhibitory control, particularly when hungry, and less concurrent activation of inhibitory brain areas. Moreover, this was strongly predictive of future weight gain. More activation of inhibitory brain areas, on the other hand, was predictive of weight loss: individuals with successful weight loss initially show inhibitory brain activity comparable to that of normal weight individuals. When successful weight maintenance is achieved for at least 1 year, this inhibitory activity is further increased. Interventions targeting inhibitory control in obese individuals have divergent effects. Firstly, food-specific inhibitory control training is particularly effective for people with low inhibitory control and high BMI. Secondly, neuromodulation paradigms are rather heterogeneous: although rTMS to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex induced some weight-loss, multiple sessions of tDCS reduced food consumption (desire) and induced weight loss in two thirds of the papers. Thirdly, neurofeedback results in successful upregulation of brain activity and connectivity, but occasionally leads to increased food intake. In conclusion, inhibitory control is implicated in obesity. It can be targeted to promote weight loss although major weight losses have not been achieved.

PMID:35343884 | DOI:10.1080/1028415X.2022.2053406

Brain Sci. 2022 Mar 9;12(3):363. doi: 10.3390/brainsci12030363.

ABSTRACT

Mindfulness training (MT) reduces self-referential processing and promotes interoception, the perception of sensations from inside the body, by increasing one's awareness of and regulating responses to them. The posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and the insular cortex (INS) are considered hubs for self-referential processing and interoception, respectively. Although MT has been consistently found to decrease PCC, little is known about how MT relates to INS activity. Understanding links between mindfulness and interoception may be particularly important for informing mental health in adolescence, when neuroplasticity and emergence of psychopathology are heightened. We examined INS activity during real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging neurofeedback-augmented mindfulness training (NAMT) targeting the PCC. Healthy adolescents (N = 37; 16 female) completed the NAMT task, including Focus-on-Breath (MT), Describe (self-referential processing), and Rest conditions, across three neurofeedback runs and two non-neurofeedback runs (Observe, Transfer). Regression coefficients estimated from the generalized linear model were extracted from three INS subregions: anterior (aINS), mid (mINS), and posterior (pINS). Mixed model analyses revealed the main effect of run for Focus-on-Breath vs. Describe contrast in aINS [R² = 0.39] and pINS [R² = 0.33], but not mINS [R² = 0.34]. Post hoc analyses revealed greater aINS activity and reduced pINS activity during neurofeedback runs, and such activities were related to lower self-reported life satisfaction and less pain behavior, respectively. These findings revealed the specific involvement of insula subregions in rtfMRI-nf MT.

PMID:35326319 | PMC:PMC8946655 | DOI:10.3390/brainsci12030363

IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng. 2022;30:843-850. doi: 10.1109/TNSRE.2022.3161989. Epub 2022 Apr 5.

ABSTRACT

Electroencephalogram (EEG) electrodes are critical devices for brain-computer interface and neurofeedback. A pre-gelled (PreG) electrode was developed in this paper for EEG signal acquisition with a short installation time and good comfort. A hydrogel probe was placed in advance on the Ag/AgCl electrode before wearing the EEG headband instead of a time-consuming gel injection after wearing the headband. The impedance characteristics were compared between the PreG electrode and the wet electrode. The PreG electrode and the wet electrode performed the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) application experiment to evaluate their performance. The average impedance of the PreG electrode can be decreased to 43 [Formula: see text] or even lower, which is higher than the wet electrode with an impedance of 8 [Formula: see text]. However, there is no significant difference in classification accuracy and information transmission rate (ITR) between the PreG electrode and the wet electrode in a 40 target BCI system based on Steady State Visually Evoked Potential (SSVEP). This study validated the efficiency of the proposed PreG electrode in the SSVEP-based BCI. The proposed PreG electrode will be an excellent substitute for wet electrodes in an actual application with convenience and good comfort.

PMID:35324444 | DOI:10.1109/TNSRE.2022.3161989

Science. 2022 Mar 25;375(6587):1327-1328. doi: 10.1126/science.abq1706. Epub 2022 Mar 24.

ABSTRACT

Despite complete paralysis from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, person used neural signals to spell out thoughts.

PMID:35324277 | DOI:10.1126/science.abq1706

Nat Commun. 2022 Mar 22;13(1):1236. doi: 10.1038/s41467-022-28859-8.

ABSTRACT

Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can lose all muscle-based routes of communication as motor neuron degeneration progresses, and ultimately, they may be left without any means of communication. While others have evaluated communication in people with remaining muscle control, to the best of our knowledge, it is not known whether neural-based communication remains possible in a completely locked-in state. Here, we implanted two 64 microelectrode arrays in the supplementary and primary motor cortex of a patient in a completely locked-in state with ALS. The patient modulated neural firing rates based on auditory feedback and he used this strategy to select letters one at a time to form words and phrases to communicate his needs and experiences. This case study provides evidence that brain-based volitional communication is possible even in a completely locked-in state.

PMID:35318316 | PMC:PMC8941070 | DOI:10.1038/s41467-022-28859-8

Neuroinformatics. 2022 Mar 17. doi: 10.1007/s12021-022-09582-7. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Real-time quality assessment (rtQA) of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) based on blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal changes is critical for neuroimaging research and clinical applications. The losses of BOLD sensitivity because of different types of technical and physiological noise remain major sources of fMRI artifacts. Due to difficulty of subjective visual perception of image distortions during data acquisitions, a comprehensive automatic rtQA is needed. To facilitate rapid rtQA of fMRI data, we applied real-time and recursive quality assessment methods to whole-brain fMRI volumes, as well as time-series of target brain areas and resting-state networks. We estimated recursive temporal signal-to-noise ratio (rtSNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (rtCNR), and real-time head motion parameters by a framewise rigid-body transformation (translations and rotations) using the conventional current to template volume registration. In addition, we derived real-time framewise (FD) and micro (MD) displacements based on head motion parameters and evaluated the temporal derivative of root mean squared variance over voxels (DVARS). For monitoring time-series of target regions and networks, we estimated the number of spikes and amount of filtered noise by means of a modified Kalman filter. Finally, we applied the incremental general linear modeling (GLM) to evaluate real-time contributions of nuisance regressors (linear trend and head motion). Proposed rtQA was demonstrated in real-time fMRI neurofeedback runs without and with excessive head motion and real-time simulations of neurofeedback and resting-state fMRI data. The rtQA was implemented as an extension of the open-source OpenNFT software written in Python, MATLAB and C++ for neurofeedback, task-based, and resting-state paradigms. We also developed a general Python library to unify real-time fMRI data processing and neurofeedback applications. Flexible estimation and visualization of rtQA facilitates efficient rtQA of fMRI data and helps the robustness of fMRI acquisitions by means of substantiating decisions about the necessity of the interruption and re-start of the experiment and increasing the confidence in neural estimates.

PMID:35297018 | DOI:10.1007/s12021-022-09582-7

Cogn Affect Behav Neurosci. 2022 Mar 15. doi: 10.3758/s13415-022-00991-4. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Mindfulness training (MT) promotes the development of one's ability to observe and attend to internal and external experiences with objectivity and nonjudgment with evidence to improve psychological well-being. Real-time functional MRI neurofeedback (rtfMRI-nf) is a noninvasive method of modulating activity of a brain region or circuit. The posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) has been hypothesized to be an important hub instantiating a mindful state. This nonrandomized, single-arm study examined the feasibility and tolerability of training typically developing adolescents to self-regulate the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) using rtfMRI-nf during MT. Thirty-four adolescents (mean age: 15 years; 14 females) completed the neurofeedback augmented mindfulness training task, including Focus-on-Breath (MT), Describe (self-referential thinking), and Rest conditions, across three neurofeedback and two non-neurofeedback runs (Observe, Transfer). Self-report assessments demonstrated the feasibility and tolerability of the task. Neurofeedback runs differed significantly from non-neurofeedback runs for the Focus-on-Breath versus Describe contrast, characterized by decreased activity in the PCC during the Focus-on-Breath condition (z = -2.38 to -6.27). MT neurofeedback neural representation further involved the medial prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, posterior insula, hippocampus, and amygdala. State awareness of physical sensations increased following rtfMRI-nf and was maintained at 1-week follow-up (Cohens' d = 0.69). Findings demonstrate feasibility and tolerability of rtfMRI-nf in healthy adolescents, replicates the role of PCC in MT, and demonstrate a potential neuromodulatory mechanism to leverage and streamline the learning of mindfulness practice. ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier #NCT04053582; August 12, 2019).

PMID:35292905 | DOI:10.3758/s13415-022-00991-4

Neuroimage. 2022 Jun;253:119093. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119093. Epub 2022 Mar 11.

ABSTRACT

Analyzing non-invasive recordings of electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) directly in sensor space, using the signal from individual sensors, is a convenient and standard way of working with this type of data. However, volume conduction introduces considerable challenges for sensor space analysis. While the general idea of signal mixing due to volume conduction in EEG/MEG is recognized, the implications have not yet been clearly exemplified. Here, we illustrate how different types of activity overlap on the level of individual sensors. We show spatial mixing in the context of alpha rhythms, which are known to have generators in different areas of the brain. Using simulations with a realistic 3D head model and lead field and data analysis of a large resting-state EEG dataset, we show that electrode signals can be differentially affected by spatial mixing by computing a sensor complexity measure. While prominent occipital alpha rhythms result in less heterogeneous spatial mixing on posterior electrodes, central electrodes show a diversity of rhythms present. This makes the individual contributions, such as the sensorimotor mu-rhythm and temporal alpha rhythms, hard to disentangle from the dominant occipital alpha. Additionally, we show how strong occipital rhythms can contribute the majority of activity to frontal channels, potentially compromising analyses that are solely conducted in sensor space. We also outline specific consequences of signal mixing for frequently used assessment of power, power ratios and connectivity profiles in basic research and for neurofeedback application. With this work, we hope to illustrate the effects of volume conduction in a concrete way, such that the provided practical illustrations may be of use to EEG researchers to in order to evaluate whether sensor space is an appropriate choice for their topic of investigation.

PMID:35288283 | DOI:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2022.119093

Front Syst Neurosci. 2022 Feb 25;16:786200. doi: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.786200. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

Recent neurotechnology has developed various methods for neurofeedback (NF), in which participants observe their own neural activity to be regulated in an ideal direction. EEG-microstates (EEGms) are spatially featured states that can be regulated through NF training, given that they have recently been indicated as biomarkers for some disorders. The current study was conducted to develop an EEG-NF system for detecting "canonical 4 EEGms" in real time. There are four representative EEG states, regardless of the number of channels, preprocessing procedures, or participants. Accordingly, our 10 Hz NF system was implemented to detect them (msA, B, C, and D) and audio-visually inform participants of its detection. To validate the real-time effect of this system on participants' performance, the NF was intentionally delayed for participants to prevent their cognitive control in learning. Our results suggest that the feedback effect was observed only under the no-delay condition. The number of Hits increased significantly from the baseline period and increased from the 1- or 20-s delay conditions. In addition, when the Hits were compared among the msABCD, each cognitive or perceptual function could be characterized, though the correspondence between each microstate and psychological ability might not be that simple. For example, msD should be generally task-positive and less affected by the inserted delay, whereas msC is more delay-sensitive. In this study, we developed and validated a new EEGms-NF system as a function of delay. Although the participants were naive to the inserted delay, the real-time NF successfully increased their Hit performance, even within a single-day experiment, although target specificity remains unclear. Future research should examine long-term training effects using this NF system.

PMID:35283737 | PMC:PMC8913511 | DOI:10.3389/fnsys.2022.786200

Front Mol Neurosci. 2022 Feb 23;15:825286. doi: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.825286. eCollection 2022.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Chronic insomnia disorder (CID) is considered a major public health problem worldwide. Therefore, innovative and effective technical methods for studying the pathogenesis and clinical comprehensive treatment of CID are urgently needed.

METHODS: Real-time fMRI neurofeedback (rtfMRI-NF), a new intervention, was used to train 28 patients with CID to regulate their amygdala activity for three sessions in 6 weeks. Resting-state fMRI data were collected before and after training. Then, voxel-based degree centrality (DC) method was used to explore the effect of rtfMRI-NF training. For regions with altered DC, we determined the specific connections to other regions that most strongly contributed to altered functional networks based on DC. Furthermore, the relationships between the DC value of the altered regions and changes in clinical variables were determined.

RESULTS: Patients with CID showed increased DC in the right postcentral gyrus, Rolandic operculum, insula, and superior parietal gyrus and decreased DC in the right supramarginal gyrus, inferior parietal gyrus, angular gyrus, middle occipital gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus. Seed-based functional connectivity analyses based on the altered DC regions showed more details about the altered functional networks. Clinical scores in Pittsburgh sleep quality index, insomnia severity index (ISI), Beck depression inventory, and Hamilton anxiety scale decreased. Furthermore, a remarkable positive correlation was found between the changed ISI score and DC values of the right insula.

CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that amygdala-based rtfMRI-NF training altered the intrinsic functional hubs, which reshaped the abnormal functional connections caused by insomnia and improved the sleep of patients with CID. These findings contribute to our understanding of the neurobiological mechanism of rtfMRI-NF in insomnia treatment. However, additional double-blinded controlled clinical trials with larger sample sizes need to be conducted to confirm the effect of rtfMRI-NF from this initial study.

PMID:35283729 | PMC:PMC8904428 | DOI:10.3389/fnmol.2022.825286

J Neurodev Disord. 2022 Mar 12;14(1):19. doi: 10.1186/s11689-022-09433-1.

ABSTRACT

A wide variety of model systems and experimental techniques can provide insight into the structure and function of the human brain in typical development and in neurodevelopmental disorders. Unfortunately, this work, whether based on manipulation of animal models or observational and correlational methods in humans, has a high attrition rate in translating scientific discovery into practicable treatments and therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders.With new computational and neuromodulatory approaches to interrogating brain networks, opportunities exist for "bedside-to bedside-translation" with a potentially shorter path to therapeutic options. Specifically, methods like lesion network mapping can identify brain networks involved in the generation of complex symptomatology, both from acute onset lesion-related symptoms and from focal developmental anomalies. Traditional neuroimaging can examine the generalizability of these findings to idiopathic populations, while non-invasive neuromodulation techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation provide the ability to do targeted activation or inhibition of these specific brain regions and networks. In parallel, real-time functional MRI neurofeedback also allow for endogenous neuromodulation of specific targets that may be out of reach for transcranial exogenous methods.Discovery of novel neuroanatomical circuits for transdiagnostic symptoms and neuroimaging-based endophenotypes may now be feasible for neurodevelopmental disorders using data from cohorts with focal brain anomalies. These novel circuits, after validation in large-scale highly characterized research cohorts and tested prospectively using noninvasive neuromodulation and neurofeedback techniques, may represent a new pathway for symptom-based targeted therapy.

PMID:35279095 | PMC:PMC8918299 | DOI:10.1186/s11689-022-09433-1

J Korean Acad Nurs. 2022 Feb;52(1):36-51. doi: 10.4040/jkan.21155.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback training for emotion regulation and brain homeostasis on anxiety about COVID-19 infection, impulsivity, anger rumination, meta-mood, and self-regulation ability of late adolescents in the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic situation.

METHODS: A non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design was used. The participants included 55 late adolescents in the experimental and control groups. The variables were evaluated using quantitative EEG at pre-post time points in the experimental group. The experimental groups received 10 sessions using the three-band protocol for five weeks. The collected data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, t-test and paired t-test using the SAS 9.3 program. The collected EEG data used a frequency series power spectrum analysis method through fast Fourier transform.

RESULTS: Significant differences in emotion regulation between the two groups were observed in the anxiety about COVID-19 infection (W = 585.50, p = .002), mood repair of meta-mood (W = 889.50, p = .024), self-regulation ability (t = -5.02, p < .001), self-regulation mode (t = -4.74, p < .001), and volitional inhibition mode (t = -2.61, p = .012). Neurofeedback training for brain homeostasis was effected on enhanced sensory-motor rhythm (S = 177.00, p < .001) and inhibited theta (S = -166.00, p < .001).

CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate the potential of EEG biofeedback training as an independent nursing intervention that can markedly improve anxiety, mood-repair, and self-regulation ability for emotional distress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PMID:35274619 | DOI:10.4040/jkan.21155

Sensors (Basel). 2022 Feb 25;22(5):1845. doi: 10.3390/s22051845.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Difficulty in modulating multisensory input, specifically the sensory over-responsive (SOR) type, is linked to pain hypersensitivity and anxiety, impacting daily function and quality of life in children and adults. Reduced cortical activity recorded under resting state has been reported, suggestive of neuromodulation as a potential therapeutic modality. This feasibility study aimed to explore neurofeedback intervention in SOR.

METHODS: Healthy women with SOR (n = 10) underwent an experimental feasibility study comprising four measurement time points (T1-baseline; T2-preintervention; T3-postintervention; T4-follow-up). Outcome measures included resting-state EEG recording, in addition to behavioral assessments of life satisfaction, attaining functional goals, pain sensitivity, and anxiety. Intervention targeted the upregulation of alpha oscillatory power over ten sessions.

RESULTS: No changes were detected in all measures between T1 and T2. Exploring the changes in brain activity between T2 and T4 revealed power enhancement in delta, theta, beta, and gamma oscillatory bands, detected in the frontal region (p = 0.03-&lt;0.001; Cohen's d = 0.637-1.126) but not in alpha oscillations. Furthermore, a large effect was found in enhancing life satisfaction and goal attainment (Cohen's d = 1.18; 1.04, respectively), and reduced pain sensitivity and anxiety trait (Cohen's d = 0.70).

CONCLUSION: This is the first study demonstrating the feasibility of neurofeedback intervention in SOR.

PMID:35270991 | PMC:PMC8914621 | DOI:10.3390/s22051845

Neurocase. 2022 Feb;28(1):29-36. doi: 10.1080/13554794.2021.2019790. Epub 2022 Mar 6.

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the evidences related to the effectiveness of neurofeedback treatment for people with OCD. A literature review and meta-analysis of current controlled trials for patients with OCD symptoms was conducted across different databases. So, the primary outcome measure was OCD symptoms in subjects based on DSM IV. Y-BOCS was considered as primary outcomes. Nine met inclusion criteria (including 1211 patients). Analysis showed there was an important benefit of neurofeedback treatment in comparison to other treatments (MD = -6.815; 95% CI = [-9.033, -4.598]; P < 0.001). The results provide preliminary evidence that NFB is efficacious method for OCD and suggest that more clinical trials are needed to compare common treatment such as medication, neurological, and behavioral interventions.

PMID:35253624 | DOI:10.1080/13554794.2021.2019790

Neuroimage Clin. 2022;34:102980. doi: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.102980. Epub 2022 Mar 2.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) causes difficulty with maintaining the speed, size, and vigor of movements, especially when they are internally generated. We previously proposed that the insula is important in motivating intentional movement via its connections with the dorsomedial frontal cortex (dmFC). We demonstrated that subjects with PD can increase the right insula-dmFC functional connectivity using fMRI-based neurofeedback (NF) combined with kinesthetic motor imagery (MI). The current study is a randomized clinical trial testing whether NF-guided kinesthetic MI training can improve motor performance and increase task-based and resting-state right insula-dmFC functional connectivity in subjects with PD.

METHODS: We assigned nondemented subjects with mild PD (Hoehn & Yahr stage ≤ 3) to the experimental kinesthetic MI with NF (MI-NF, n = 22) and active control visual imagery (VI, n = 22) groups. Only the MI-NF group received NF-guided MI training (10-12 runs). The NF signal was based on the right insula-dmFC functional connectivity strength. All subjects also practiced their respective imagery tasks at home daily for 4 weeks. Post-training changes in 1) task-based and resting-state right insula-dmFC functional connectivity were the primary imaging outcomes, and 2) MDS-UPDRS motor exam and motor function scores were the primary and secondary clinical outcomes, respectively.

RESULTS: The MI-NF group was not significantly different from the VI group in any of the primary imaging or clinical outcome measures. The MI-NF group reported subjective improvement in kinesthetic body awareness. There was significant and comparable improvement only in motor function scores in both groups (secondary clinical outcome). This improvement correlated with NF regulation of the right insula-dmFC functional connectivity only in the MI-NF group. Both groups showed specific training effects in whole-brain functional connectivity with distinct neural circuits supporting kinesthetic motor and visual imagery (exploratory imaging outcome).

CONCLUSIONS: The functional connectivity-based NF regulation was unsuccessful, however, both kinesthetic MI and VI practice improved motor function in our cohort with mild PD.

PMID:35247729 | PMC:PMC8897714 | DOI:10.1016/j.nicl.2022.102980