ISNR 2007 PANEL ABSTRACTS
(T = Theoretical | CA = Clinical Application | R = Research)
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Panel #1: Basic Theory of Evoked & Event-Related Potentials (EP/ERP) & Clinical Correlates of P300 Response in Schizophrenia & Affective Disorders
Marc Saab, M.Eng., Thought Technology, Ltd., marc@thoughttechnology.com
Donald Bars, Ph.D., Private Practice, dbars2001@yahoo.com
(T & CA)
Abstract
Evoked and Event-Related Potentials (EP/ERP) have been studied in neurology and neuroscience
for many years. As these advanced methods of EEG analysis become increasingly relevant in the fields of
applied psychophysiology and neuronal regulation, a general understanding of the methods is necessary.
The scientific and technical fundamentals involved in studies of EP/ERPs will be explained in this seminar.
Clinical correlates of P300 response in various disorders, as well as the influence of protocol variation and
the use of the P300 response in differentiating between affective disorders and schizophrenia will be presented.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Panel #2: A Model for Marketing Neurofeedback in the 21st Century: Neurofeedback Centers of Greater Chicago (EEGChicago.com)
Kathy Abbott, Psy.D., Private Practice, kathy.d.abbott@gmail.com
Elsa Baehr, Ph.D., Private Practice, e_baehr@hotmail.com
Jim Kowal, Ph.D., Private Practice, jkowal@traumaticstress.org
(CA)
Abstract
The Neurofeedback Centers of Greater Chicago want to share their marketing experience from the last two years with other neurofeedback providers in order to encourage other parts of the country to develop their own marketing ventures and spread the word about neurofeedback to the world.The following will be covered: history and purpose of our group, organization of the group, and requirements for membership in the Neurofeedback Providers of Chicagoland; theory /principles of marketing; types of marketing strategies used or discussed including radio, and locally made DVD, and Google ads; and costs and benefits of different methods of advertising.
Panel #3: The Effectiveness of the Low Energy Neurofeedback System on TBI and PTSD; Case Presentations by Cory Hammond, Ph.D., Stephen Larsen, Ph.D., and Nicholas Dogris, Ph.D.
Nicholas Dogris, Ph.D., Private Practice, nicholasdogris@verizon.net
D. Corydon Hammond, Ph.D., University of Utah School of Medicine, d.c.hammond@m.cc.utah.edu
Stephen Larsen, Ph.D., SUNY, Stone Mountain Center, stephenlarsen@earthlink.net
Mary Lee Esty, PhD., Private Practice, maryleeesty@aol.comᄒᅠ
(CA)
Abstract
The purpose of this presentation is to show the effectiveness of the LENS on TBI and PTSD. Nicholas Dogris, Ph.D, Cory Hammond, Ph.D. and Stephan Larsen, Ph.D. will present EEG LENS data for specific cases. A discussion of treatment effects and case outcomes will be discussed.
Panel #4: EEG Findings and Subjective Reports of Salvia Divinorum Experiences
David Stuckey, Psy.D., Vitality Healthcare, stuckeydavid@yahoo.com
John DeLuca, Ph.D., Private Practice, johndeluca@fearlessheart.com
Jay Gunkelman, QEEG-D, Q-Pro, qeegjay@sbcglobal.net
Juan Acosta-Urquidi, Ph.D., Private Practice, jacostau@yahoo.com
Michael O'Bannon, Ph.D, Private Practice, mob@mindspring.com
(R)
Abstract
Introduction. There is little research exploring the effects of the entheogenic plant salvia divinorum. There has been some chemistry and psychopharmacological research, but no electrophysiological effects of this substance. As the availability and awareness of this plant increases, studying the effects of its use with human subjects becomes more relevant and necessary.
Panel #5: The 40 Hertz Rhythm Story: A Symposium in Honor of Daniel Sheer
Jonathan Cowan, Ph.D., Peak Achievement Training, jon@peakachievement.com
Joel Lubar, Ph.D., University of Tennessee, jlubar@utk.edu
Karl Pribram, M.D., Ph.D. (Hon), Georgetown University, pribramk@georgetown.edu
A. Martin Wuttke, NeuroTheraoy Center for Heatlh ifw@mindspring.com
(R & CA)
Abstract
The 40 Hertz rhythm is now regarded as a very important part of brain function, with a major role in processing new discoveries, enhancing awareness and clarity, and improving memory. It plays a key role in scanning the cortex and combining the widespread parts of a particular even into a unified whole the "event binding rhythm". Despite its small amplitude in the EEG that is filtered by several tissue layers on its way to the scalp, the 40 Hertz rhythm is most highly positively correlated to measures of cortical energy consumption.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Panel #6: Neurofeedback Innovations with Autistic Spectrum Disorder
Michael Linden, Ph.D., ADD Treatment Centers, drmike49@aol.com
Michael Thompson, M.D., ADD Centre, lyndamichaelthompson@gmail.com
Lynda Thompson, Ph.D., ADD Centre, lyndamichaelthompson@gmail.com
Robert Coben, Ph.D., Private Practice, robcoben@optonline.net
Jay Gunkelman, QEEG-D, Q-Pro, qeegjay@sbcglobal.net
(R & CA)
Abstract
This panel will briefly review the background and etiology of Autism and Aspergers (Autistic Spectrum Disorders/ASD). We will review QEEG patterns of ASD and discuss how to utilize them to select neurofeedback protocols for amplitude and connectivity. We will explain different techniques of neurofeedback (amplitude, ratio, coherence, connectivity) being used with ASD. Research studies of neurofeedback with ASD will be presented.
Panel #7: Brain Music Therapy as a Complementary Modality for Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression & Attention Training: Perspectives from Providers
Galina Mindlin, M.D., Ph.D., Brain Music Therapy Center, mindlinbmt@yahoo.com
George Rozelle, Ph.D., MindSpa Mental Fitness Center, grrozelle@aol.com
Jane Price, L.P.C., Private Practice, pricefam5@charter.net
Orli Peter, Ph.D.
Carol Kershaw, Ed.D., Private Practice, hypnopsych@aol.com
Bill Wade, M.Div., LPC, LMFT, Private Practice
(R & CA)
Abstract
Brain Music Therapy is a unique marriage of neurofeedback and music. Russian scientists studied the similarities between brain rhythms and music rhythms and developed algorithms for converting the EEG to music files. The technology has been used in clinical applications for 15 years in Europe and was brought to the U.S. in 2004 by Dr. Mindlin. Dr. Rozelle joined forces with Dr. Mindlin in 2005 and their combined clinical experience with BMT has attracted a growing network of contract providers.
Panel #8: The Biofield: Frequency Interventions
Thomas Budzynski, Ph.D., University of Washington, tbudzyn@cs.com
Beverly Rubik, Ph.D
Steve Haltiwanger, M.D.
(R & T)
Abstract
In the ISNR field where EEG is the focus of interest, the electrical signals of the EEG are simply one of a
myriad of specific frequency sources throughout the body structure. In fact, the total body mass is alive with electromagnetic energy, each cellular/biochemical structure oscillating at its own predetermined frequency. Thus, this panel addresses electromagnetic frequencies beyond those of the brain. The biofield, as discussed by this panel, is more broadly defined as energy medicine, having to do with expanding knowledge of how the electromagnetic fields of the body maintain life. Biologic fields such as cell biology, biological chemistry, endocrine and neuroendocrine systems are ultimately integrated by bioelectrical energy as the powering functional force. Dr. Rubik suggests that the biofield is the organizing field of the body that is partly electromagnetic, resulting from the totality of interacting charged molecular species comprising the body. Dr. Rubik also addresses healing and the role of the mind in restoring healthy functioning in the body. She proposes a model of the biofield based on nonlinear living systems of homeodynamics as the underlying basis of biocommunication, physiological and biochemical regulation, as well as healing. We know of the brain and nervous system as an extensively studied, intricate bioelectrical field. The electrical activity of the heart and vascular system is also well recognized as a dynamic response to multiple molecular and sensory conditions. How other physiologic systems are modulated is the topic of Dr. Steve Haltiwanger's talk. He presents his understanding of the body's specific frequency patterns as the basis for the integration and healing in the body. He will show how technological methods, such as nanotechnology, can be guided toward the functional restoration of a healthier state. Dr. Tom Budzynski will discuss the double-blind study designed to test how nanotechnology, as described by Dr. Haltiwanger, can effect certain parameters of bodily functioning, in this case, heart rate variability.
ISNR 2007 POSTER ABSTRACTS
Women Healing from Anxiety: An Integrative Therapy Utilizing Neurofeedback and Talk Therapy
Sarah Aguilar-Prinsloo, M.A., St. Mary's University, SarahA_Prinsloo@hotmail.com
Randall Lyle, Ph.D., St. Mary's University, rlyle@randallrlylephd.com
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Background: This poster concerns the treatment of 3 women presenting to therapy with a diagnosis of anxiety which manifested in different forms including GAD, Social Anxiety, NOS. The women reported difficulty with daily activities such as maintenance of relationships, irritability, sleep issues, and panic attacks.
Method: The clients participated in an average of twice weekly EEG biofeedback training for hour during each session. A combination of bipolar and monopolar training was done on two of the clients, with the third using a strictly interhemispheric hookup. All clients trained at T3 and T4 simultaneously using a single channel bipolar montage (interhemispheric). This was followed by the addition of F3 and F4 using the same bipolar arrangement. All clients participated in weekly talk therapy sessions (including family therapy), usually immediately prior to neurofeedback. The amount of time dedicated to talk therapy was reduced to a short conversation during hookup of the neurofeedback equipment for the last few weeks of treatment in all cases. Pre and post-testing was done with the Brief Symptom Inventory. The results of the testing showed a decrease in severity of symptoms for all participants.
Results: The clients reported improvement in ability to interact with their families and friends, as well as a sense of decreased worry and complete remission of panic symptoms. The two clients who were medicated prior to therapy were able to stop taking medication for their anxiety.
Discussion: When performing EEG biofeedback, it may be most practical to adopt a stance of collaboration between neurotherapy and talk therapy. This case highlights three areas that may warrant further exploration and research; (1) interhemispheric training, (2) the importance of including talk therapy with neurofeedback, and (3) the importance of a relationship between mental health practitioner and medical doctor. While improvements in functioning of these clients could be due to many factors, only after the introduction of the mix of therapies did a noticeable decrease in symptoms occur.
DCN128, (IIR) Reference Database Software Inspired by the Research of Montgomery, et al. (1998)
John Nicholas Demos, MA, Neurofeedback of Southern Vermont, LLC, jnd@sover.net
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Introduction: This report describes the methodology used to create a reference database from a small population of adults and children (n=69). Infinite Impulse Response (IIR) filtering was used rather than Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). Topographical brain maps were arranged in a "user friendly" fashion in order to educate entry level practitioners about the utility of EEG assessments. The concept was inspired by Montgomery, et al., (1998).
Method: A reference database was created from the general population rather than the clinical population. 30 adults and 39 children were chosen based upon a limited array of guidelines:
1. No clinical subjects or clients were included
2. No psych testing was done.
3. Psychotropic medication users were disqualified
4. School age subjects must have average to above average grades; those failing in school weredisqualified. Adults must have high school diplomas.
5. Subjects must have a clearly defined social life and friends.
6. Adult subjects must be employed or employable (e.g., stay-home moms)
EEG Data were acquired using BrainMaster systems with miniQ technology. 12 International 10-20 sites were recorded using two channels at a time at 6 switchbox positions. Pre-artifacting was employed to remove pronounced EMG and EOA artifact. Electro cap International recording caps were used and 5,000 ohms impedance was maintained at all 12 scalp locations. Eight filters were set up-the maximum allowed by BrainMaster software. Subjects were separated into 4 groups:
Adults (16-55 yrs old); Children (13-15 yrs old); (10-12 yrs old); (7-9 yrs old). All data was tabulated with each respective group and divided by the number of subjects within the group. The results were summed and then processed as a percent of the total. Thus, a "relative" rather than an absolute value was acquired. No attempt was made to establish gaussianity. Variations from the mean average were reported in the software as percent variations from the norm. The database topographically portrays ratios, variability, lateral coherence, peak frequency, asymmetry as well as 8 banded frequency widths.
Results: The adult database conforms to the results obtained from the Montgomery, et al., (1998) and Lubar, et al., (1995) studies. The results have also been compared to medical grade software and will be discussed and presented as a power point presentation. The reference database has determined the following: (1) the eyes closed alpha (8-12 Hz)-to-beta (13-21 Hz) ratio at Cz which hovers at approximately 2:1 from 7 years of age right on into adulthood; also, (2) dorsal beta (13-21 Hz) modestly increases from anterior to posterior. (3) Lobeta (12-15 Hz) when divided by beta (13-21 Hz) typically yields 65-75% at all 12 International 10-20 positions: Fz, Cz, F3, F4, C3, C4, P3, P4, T3, T4, O1, O2. The primary weakness of the database is the need for more children subjects. 30 adult subjects is sufficient but increasing the number of children would improve the results. As more clinicians become educated and become proficient in the data gathering process it is hoped that the numbers of subjects with increase.
The Respiratory Arterial Pressure Wave - The Cardiopulmonary Mechanics Behind the Heart Rate Variability Cycle
Stephen Elliott, Coherence L.L.C., steve.elliott@coherence.com
(T)
Abstract:
Introduction: It is generally accepted that baroreceptor reflex activity is the primary mechanism behind the heart rate variability cycle. But what is the baroreceptor responding to? The answer is: "the respiratory arterial pressure wave".
Method: This presentation will present the theory of the respiratory arterial pressure wave including its origin and function in the greater scheme of autonomic nervous system regulation, heart rate variability, and governance of systemic arterial pressure. The respiratory arterial pressure wave is captured (measured) during typical adult breathing and during cardiopulmonary resonance.
Results: Observations of the respiratory arterial pressure wave will be presented during typical adult breathing and during cardiopulmonary resonance and its relationship to baroreceptor activity, heart rate variability, and autonomic nervous system governance made clear.
Conclusion: The respiratory arterial pressure wave is a dramatic physiological phenomenon that results in autonomic nervous system regulation and produces the heart rate variability cycle.
Neurofeedback in Conjunction with Play Therapy for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Jennifer Rarity, Ph.D. Candidate, St. Mary's University, jcrtex@yahoo.com
Randall Lyle, Ph.D., St. Mary's University, rlyle@randallrlylephd.com
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Current research states that 1 in 150 children are diagnosed as being on the Autism Spectrum. Currently two studies one by Jarusiewicz (2002) and Coben and Padolsky (2006) have been looking at the effectiveness of neurofeedback in treating Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Both studies have shown that neurofeedback is effective in addressing the neurological connectivity issues associated with ASD. The present case study looked at the effectiveness of combining neurofeedback and play therapy in helping a child with Asperger's begin to practice the skills that were neurologically being addressed through neurofeedback training. The results of the case study showed that the combination of neurofeedback and play therapy was very effective in helping the child develop social skills and learn to differentiate between different emotions and social situations.
Conclusion: The evidence in this case study has shown that combining neurofeedback with play therapy is an effect treatment in helping children with Asperger's by neurologically preparing them to be able to learn the social skills necessary to be more successful in their school environment.
Evoked and Induced Gamma Frequency Oscillations, Interhemispheral Coherence and Event-Related Potential Abnormalities During Processing of Illusory Figures in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Estato Sokhadze, Ph.D., University of Louisville, tato.sokhadze@louisville.edu
Ayman El-Baz, Ph.D.
Shraddha Singh, Ph.D.
Grace Mathai, M.A.
Lonnie Sears, Ph.D.
Manuel F Casanova, M.D.
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder of childhood characterized by deficits in social interaction, language, and stereotyped behaviors and restricted range of interests. Several major neuropsychological models have been proposed to explain the cognitive deficits found in autism. One of the models is centered on the construct of "weak central coherence" or the diminished capacity to integrate information into coherent or meaningful wholes. This abnormal global processing model of autism refers to an inability to integrate incoming individual parts and perceive them as a whole. It has been proposed that "weak central coherence" in autism could result from a reduction in the integration of specialized local networks in the brain caused by a deficit in temporal binding (Brock et al., 2002, The temporal binding deficit hypothesis of autism. Developmental Psychopathololy, 14, 209-224). Visual perception anomalies associated with weak central coherence may be attributed to a reduction in synchronization of gamma frequency activity between networks processing local features. Oscillatory activity in the gamma-band (30- 80 Hz) of the EEG has been related to Gestalt perception and to cognitive functions such as attention, learning, and memory. Gamma activity increase has been most widely associated with top-down attentional processing and object perception. In this pilot study we tested 4 high-functioning children with autism and 4 age-matched typically developing children in an experiment which presented either shapes with visual illusions (Kanizsa figures) or non-Kanizsa pictures in a three-category oddball task. Dense-array EEG/ERP was recorded using a 128 channel Electrical Geodesics system. In this perceptual task gamma bursts have been reliably recorded over the posterior attention areas. When perceiving the Kanizsa shape, the group with autism differed from the control group by higher gamma magnitude and by an earlier onset of gamma activity. Power of induced and evoked gamma oscillations was analyzed using MATLAB applications. We found differences in gamma coherence between left and right hemisphere, as well as difference in coherence of dipole sources using Brain Electrical Source Analysis (BESA) software. Three way interaction Stimulus (Kanizsa target, Kanizsa non-target, non-Kanizsa) x Hemisphere (left, right) x Group (autism, control) was significant for amplitude of the centro-parietal N2b component of ERP. Our preliminary data partially support the "temporal binding deficit" hypothesis of autism (Brock et al., 2002) which suggests that many features of autism, such as superiority in processing of detail (local processing) and disadvantage in global processing, which requires integration of information can be explained by a failure of binding between cortical areas. Induced gamma oscillations may also underlie the activation of the neural representation of the object. In a broader framework, oscillatory synchrony in high frequency range should be considered as a correlate of a mechanism that binds together the sensory and cognitive properties of an object into the experienced entity. Abnormalities of gamma oscillatory synchrony in autism can therefore result in significant perceptual and cognitive deficits.
Stem Cells and Neurotherapy - Depression, ADD/ADHD, TBI
Hershel Toomim, Sc.D., Biocomp Research Institute,hershel@biocomp.mpowermail.com
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Repeated hemoencephalographic (HEG)(12) activation of the left lateral prefrontal cortex, in a series of 18 patients chosen for their prefrontal difficulties, resulted in 60% encountering word finding memory losses. All improved brain function otherwise. It is hypothesized here that this is evidence of neurogenesis in the left lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC). This suggests that repeated high demand requirements call for replacement of senescent neurons by stem cell progeny. These new neurons form new synapses and are recognizable by a loss of memory detail not loss of a memory function.
Introduction: The hypothesis: Word finding ability can be reduced by repeatedly demanding higher than available activation of an ischemic prefrontal brain area adjacent to Fp1. Under high demand conditions replacement of senescent neurons by stem cell progeny, neurons is recognizable by a loss of memory detail. A short history of neurogenesis in the adult human brain can be found in "Neurogenesis in the Adult Brain" by Fred H. Gage (1). Kunlin Jin et al (2) found that Alzheimer's disease patients activate more neurogenesis in their hippocampus than controls. This suggests that a signal is sent to the stem cell storage area by the threatened neurons for replacement. A distress signal requires an alive source. Replacement neurons are thus limited to the penumbra of stroke infarct, Kunlin Jin, et al.(2006) (3). Later examination of the question casts serious doubt on this earlier assessment. A major attempt to show neurons born in later life in the human brain found only the neurons present at birth, Bhardwag et. al. (4), using markers from the 14C excess due to the nuclear explosions prior to the test ban treaty, found neurons from birth times but could find no new neurons born after 1968 to 1988, when 14C molecules from nuclear explosions were a significant part of the total atmosphere. They were able to find newly born glial cells but not newly born neurons 10 years after birth. An attempt to discern why their well thought out experiment found no evidence of neurogenesis later in life brought forth the following observations: The lifetime of neurons has not yet been determined. In the Bhardwag article there is no mention of the ratio 13C / 14C neurons at birth or in the subsequent lifetime of their 7 subjects. This ratio could have increased if the life of the 14C neurons was time limited. New neurons born after the nuclear test 14C product decayed would have increased this ratio and would not have been detected. the marker, 14C, had entered the genome at birth. The ratio of 13C / 14C would have had to be the same at death as that prevalent at the time of birth if no neurons had been born after birth. Although several of their references point to possible other sources of neurogenesis, Bhardwag et. al. does not discuss this important constraint. At this writing new neurons have been detected in excised human brain tissue Kempermann et al. 2003 (5), Zhao et al. 2006 (6), but not in vivo. Approximation to the detection of neurogenesis in the living brain is found in Jadranka, M., Christian, N., Stefan, M. Increased Generation of Neuronal Progenitors after Ischemic Injury in the Aged Adult Human Forebrain; 2006 (7). It has been shown that human derived glial cells can become neurons, Walton et al 2006 (8). Here we test, with MicroCog; Assessment of Cognitive Function, before and after 10 training sessions at Fp1 (30 minute training sessions with voluntary increase of brain oxygenation, HEG ),. The MicroCog "Analogies" subtest evaluates word-finding ability. In agreement with the above hypothesis, we found 60% of all those whose word finding ability changed experienced ability reduction in spite of average improvement in the 16 remaining MicroCog sub tests.(Fig 1 shows before and after comparison data).
A New Multichannel Measurement Near Infrared Light For Optical Brain Imaging
Jean-Claude Vouakouanitou, M.D., Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, jcv@ecnr.org
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Itroduction: Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a noninvasive IR imaging to monitor the hemodynamic activity of the brain and sensorimotor responses. Various techniques and devices have been developed to utilize this method for assessing cortical activity during cognitive tasks. In this paper a prototype wireless optical recording technology (known as Neurobek) is described. We developed a continuous wave Near Infrared Spectroscopy topography system. It is a highly sensitive neuro-imaging device based on a titanium sapphire (NIR) 840-1,100 nm which incorporates frequencydomain technology with quantitative optical brain imaging of deep tissue. Optical fibers are used to illuminate tissue. Our Optical tomography system has 48 sources, 48 sensor head detectors and four IR cameras. To have good quality of changes in concentration several wavelengths of laser diodes, modulated at 110 MHz, were combined between 660 and 980 nm. Some wavelengths were emitting red and others near infrared. The spectral range is 660 - 1700 nm. With different approaches for measuring, we can cover most of the adult head, and collect optical data from prefrontal, sensorimotor and visual cortices in both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously. We can provide 3D images revealing high spatial and temporal resolution.
Method: W carried out simultaneously EEG-NIRS recordings on thirteen patients. -In this study we evaluated NIRS changes over the four cortical areas (frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital) in normal and pathological brains, during the performance of different experimental tasks. We ordered the monitoring of attention, verbal working memory, and all other cognitive activities.
Results: The results have shown various patterns of cerebral blood oxygenation (CBO) changes in the frontal lobe during cognitive tasks. We observed alpha rhythm correlations in QEEG and changes in local cerebral blood oxygenation in functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). These measurements demonstrated a positive cross-correlation in the occipital cortex and prefrontal cortex between alpha activity and concentration changes of deoxygenated hemoglobin. In depressive and schizophrenic patients alterations in the left frontal lobe were observed.
Conclusions: These measurements have allowed us to identify changes occurring in deeper tissues. Neurobek is a wholehead optical system combining Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) and electroencephalographic activity (EEG. The optical and electrical signals were recorded simultaneously. This is a very promising methodology that combines knowledge about the electrical activity of the brain and its blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) on dynamic responses. The opportunity exists to measure the optical properties of tissue and to study higher cognitive functions such as the neurobiology of language development. Other projects in optical imaging system have been developed and tested, including applications for neuropsychologists. Multiplexed-NIRS system with its noninvasiveness allowed us to examine a dynamic blood flow and oxygenation in the deep microcirculation. It is a promising tool for diagnostic and neuroscientific applications.
A Comparison of QEEG Abnormalities in Closed Head Injury Patients With and Without Epilepsy
Jonathan Walker, M.D., Neurotherapy Center of Dallas, admin@neurotherapydallas.com
(R & CA)
Abstract:
Introduction: Previous QEEG studies in epilepsy patients have found that most epileptic patients have 1 or more slow foci and multiple coherence abnormalities (Nuwer, 1988; Walker, 2005). If these abnormalities are remediated using neurofeedback, most patients become seizure-free, and all experience a reduction in seizures (Walker, 2005). This study was designed to determine those abnormalities which are most likely to increase the risk of seizures in head-injured patients or to reduce that risk.
Methods: Seventy head-injured patients, 35 with seizures and 35 without seizures, had a QEEG as part of their workup in our clinic. Abnormalities of power, relative power, coherence, and asymmetry were determined.
Results: Those abnormalities which occurred with a significantly higher frequency in the seizure group were determined. These abnormalities are seen in the following table, with their inclusion in both groups and the significance level as determined b y Fisher's exact probability test.
Conclusions: It seems likely that neurofeedback training to normalize these more or less characteristic abnormalities will be quicker and more effective than trying to normalize all abnormalities (see following table). Strategies to Decrease or Eliminate Seizures with the Following Abnormalities
1. Downtrain relative power of theta and delta
2. Uptrain relative power of beta
3. Uptrain coherence of theta and delta
4. Uptrain coherence of beta
Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation as a Treatment for a Non-Predatorial Violent County Jail Inmate: A Case Study
Ronald Mellen, Ph.D., Correctional Psychologist, hobbits6@bellsouth.net
(R & CA)
Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) was used to reduce violent and aggressive behavior in a county jail inmate. The inmate had just been enrolled in the detention center's substance abuse treatment program for the third time, when CES was initiated. He had failed at his first two attempts due to aggressive and violent behavior. Before entering into CES treatment he had just completed 40 days in Administrative Segregation ("the hole") for physically attacking a jail security officer.
The inmate completed fifteen sessions of CES, over 47 days. Sessions lasted a minimum of 20 minutes, however most lasted 40 minutes. His progress was rapid and improvement was noted on pre- and post-16PF results, as well as, staff weekly and monthly ratings. He was eventually promoted to Pod Leader prior to the successful completion of the substance abuse treatment program and his release from jail.
