EEG Oscillations, Synaptic Reorganization, and Neurofeedback

                                                   M. Barry Sterman, Ph.D.

Abstract: The integration of a body of both animal and human EEG findings in my laboratory and recent cellular biology concepts has led to a new theoretical model linking the mammalian EEG to the emergence of higher learning capabilities. Studies examining the EEG correlates of operant conditioning document unique components associated with response-reward contingencies. These components appear to reflect the effects of motivational changes related to these contingencies. Animal studies in this series provided a basis for examination of underlying neural mechanisms mediating these changes and their implications for learning.

Biofeedback and the Nature of Self-Regulation in Epilepsy and AD/HD: Some New Data

                                                Niels Birbaumer, Ph.D. & Connie Weber, Ph.D.

Abstract:  A series of studies using fMRI during brain self-regulation of intractable epilepsy show a neuronal circuit consisting of premotor, basalganglia and prefrontal areas responsible for self-regulation. Two controlled studies using slow cortical potential and SMR neurofeedback in ADHD demonstrate equivalent results than ritalin control and no difference between the two neurofeedback groups.

Delivered from Distraction

                                                  Edward Hallowell, M.D.

Abstract: In this presentation, Dr. Hallowell will focus on the material that is presented in Delivered From Distraction, his new book on ADD published in January 2005.  A great deal has happened since Dr. Hallowell wrote the best-seller Driven to Distraction 10 years ago, particularly in the new area of understanding adult ADD.  His goal is to help people master the power of ADD while avoiding its pitfalls.  His message will be all encompassing and talks about what it is like to have ADD, explains some of the brain science behind it, and talks about how to get diagnosed properly, available medicinal and non-medicinal treatments, etc.  He will also address the many people who have ADD coupled with other learning issues, worry and ADD, sex and relationships and ADD, and tips on how to live your life to the fullest if you have ADD. 

Improving Attention in Adults and Children: Differing EEG Profiles and Implications for Training

                                                  Michael Thompson, M.D. & Lynda Thompson, Ph.D.

Abstract: EEG assessment findings with adults who present with the symptoms of ADHD differs from children therefore different neurofeedback (and biofeedback) interventions must be used. This paper describes EEG assessment findings on 165 adults and 95 seen consecutively at the ADD Centre. The hypothesis, based on clinical observations, was that some adults with ADHD symptoms exhibit a ‘Busy-Brain’ that correlates with high amplitude bursts of hi–beta (>20 Hz) activity, a corresponding dip in SMR, and a ratio of 26-34/13-15 Hz greater than 1.5. A second hypothesis was that this pattern would be rare in children. It was found in adults that distraction / inattention due to internal ruminative activity correlated with bursts of 23-34 Hz activity. High 19-22 Hz activity was associated with emotional intensity (may be anxiety in some cases). In some subjects this was combined with slowing at Cz with a 13-15 Hz 'dip.’ In the clinically ADHD adult group 22% showed a high 26-34/13-15 Hz (high-beta) ratio as the only EEG ‘abnormality.’ 42% of the high theta adult subjects also demonstrated a high high-beta ratio. Only 7% of the child ADHD group showed a high 26-34/13-15 Hz ratio. These children had high anxiety (included Asperger’s). None of the subjects in the comparison group who did not display any ADHD symptoms had a high 26-34/13-15 Hz ratio.

Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness

                                                Edward Hallowell, M.D.

Abstract: What do kids need to grow up to be happy, fulfilled, responsible adults?  How can professionals and/or parents make sure children get what they need? Based upon the latest research, Dr. Hallowell has developed a simple, five-step process that adults and professionals can easily use to make sure children have the right kind of childhood, the kind of childhood that will lead to happiness later on, as well as moral behavior, an attitude of cooperation, and a zest for life.  Learn how to help children get the best out of life, while avoiding the dangers that lurk along the way. 

From Pills to Skills: A Paradigm Shift for Treating Chronic Neurologic Disorders

                                    William Sears, M.D.

Abstract:  Mood disorders are occurring in increasing numbers of children and at younger ages. The number of children on prescription mood-altering drugs has increased 3-fold in the past five years. Ditto this trend for the diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit disorders. The recent expose of previously undisclosed side effects of mood-altering drugs, especially on children, has necessitated a change in the way both health care providers and patients approach chronic illnesses. The pills-skills model represents a new paradigm in transferring the responsibility for chronic illness from the health care provider to the patient by giving the patient self-help tools either in addition to, or often times instead of, pharmacologic treatment. In the pills-skills model I will discuss a treatment program I’ve developed called the LEAN Program (Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitude and Nutrition which provides patients their own toolbox of self-help skills, lessening their reliance on pills, often leading to a decrease in dosage or a cessation of pharmacological treatment all together.  We will also bring in the effects of exercise on cerebral blood flow bringing in some new and exciting research on how the lean program can increase local nitric oxide production and improve endothelium relaxation and consequent cerebral blood flow. Cases will be presented illustrating this model and the effects on lowering the reliance on medications, and consequent side effects, in children with ADHD and adults with mood disorders.

Feeding the Brain for Optimal Function

                                    William Sears, M.D.

Abstract: The brain uses around 25% of total food energy so it stands to reason that above all other organs the brain is most affected – for better or worse – by nutrition.  The discussion will center around feeding the four areas of the brain, the brain cell itself, the brain cell membrane, the myelin sheath, and the neurotransmitters.  Since 60% of the dry weight of the brain is fat we will emphasize on “smart fats,” those that make the brain grow and perform smarter.  Of all nutrients, the most research supports the influence of omega 3 fatty acids on brain structure and function, since omega 3’s form the structural component of brain cell membranes and help the membranes retain their fluidity.  Omega 3’s also form the structural component of myelin, in addition to influencing the function of neurotransmitters.  I’ll talk about recent research on the use of omega-3 supplements, on treating mood disorders, ADHD and dementia.  Discussion of the harmful effects of artificial fats, which are trans fatty acids, will also be discussed.  Because of the epidemic of behavioral and learning disorders among school children we will discuss the importance of the ingredients of a “brainy breakfast,” grazing, and the right balance carbohydrates, fats, protein, and fiber for optimal neurological performance.  A discussion of recent experiments on the importance of phytonutrients and antioxidants on brain function will be discussed.  There will several case presentations on the effect of nutritional intervention and the treatment of ADD and mood disorders. 

 

Invasive and Non-Invasive Brain-Computer-Interfaces (BCI) for Paralyzed Patients

                                                Neils Birbaumer, Ph.D.

Abstract: A brain-computer interface (BCI) using SMR, Slow-Brain-Potentials, P-300 and invasive recording of ECoG is introduced and two applications demonstrated: a) direct brain communication in locked-in patients with ALS, b) movements of neuroprosthesis of the paralysed hand in chronic stroke. Clinical aspects of training, problems and results with 17 locked-in patients are discussed.

Self-Regulation of the BOLD Effect: The fMRI-Brain-Computer-Interface and Emotional Regulation

                                                Neils Birbaumer, Ph.D.

Abstract: A BCI using BOLD (cerebral blood oxygenation) from specific brain regions is described allowing on-line feedback of BOLD (blood oxygenation-level-dependent) in 1.5 T, 3 T and 4 T Siemens MR. Control of hippocampal, amygdala and prefrontal areas is possible in a few sessions and has lasting effect on cognitive and emotional variables. Its application in criminal psychopaths to improve social empathy is discussed.

Coherence vs. Comodulation: What a Difference an Algorithm Makes

                                                Dave Kaiser, Ph.D.

Abstract:  Differences between coherence and comodulation, orthogonal aspects of linear signal similarity, are discussed.  Comodulation was developed to examine the low spatial resolution concern of EEG topography (e.g., volume conduction). Coherence quantifies stability of phase or phase difference, a measure of shared timing that suggests a common generator for two or more signals. Comodulation quantifies stability of amplitude or amplitude difference, a measure of shared energy, which suggests temporal coordination and functional unity. Empirically, comodulation and coherence values tend to be similar, but they capture orthogonal aspects of signal similarity and may show large difference during specific tasks. Global comodulation, a gross index of cortical maturation in terms of connectivity, is also described, as well as related comodulatory measures.