Alpha Brain Waves Research Articles

Decreasing brain activity caused by acute administration of ketamine and alcohol - A randomized, controlled, observer-blinded experimental study.

Substance abuse is a major public health problem. In recent years, ketamine, which is a parenteral anesthetic, has been consumed increasingly as an illicit drug together with alcohol, although little is known of how this association alters brain activity. The present study investigated the influence of progressive doses of ketamine, associated with alcohol, on electrophysiological activity. For this, 72 late-adolescent (8-10-week-old) male Wistar rats received either ketamine only, at low (10mg/kg), intermediate (20mg/kg) or high (30mg/kg) doses via intraperitoneal injection, or alcohol (2mL/100g) via oral gavage followed by ketamine (at low, intermediate, and high doses). Electroencephalograms (EEG) and electromyographic recordings were obtained 5min after the final application of the drug. When administered alone, ketamine resulted in an increase in delta, theta, beta, and gamma brainwaves, with a more pronounced effect being detected at the highest dose (30mg/kg) in the case of the delta, beta, and gamma waves. The amplitude of the alpha brainwaves was reduced at all doses of ketamine, but less intensively at the highest dose. When administered alone, alcohol reduced all the brainwaves, with the reduction in the alpha waves being exacerbated by ketamine at all doses, and that of the theta and beta waves being boosted at the lowest dose. The intermediate dose of ketamine (20mg/kg) reverted the alcohol-induced reduction in the theta and gamma waves, whereas the high dose increased delta, theta, beta, and gamma bandpower. Overall, then, while ketamine enhances the depressant effects of alcohol on the alpha brainwave at all doses, a low dose intensified this effect on the theta and beta 175 waves, whereas a high dose produces neuronal hyperexcitability in the theta and 176 gamma bandpower.

Trade-offs between Complexity and Hub Presence in Network-Based Brain Models

In the emerging field of computational neuroscience, the architecture of brain networks is a subject of intense study and debate. While models that only consider complex systems provide significant insights into neuronal interconnections, they often overlook the pivotal role of brain hubs—central nodes that manage a large number of connections. On the other hand, giving too much importance to brain hubs can lead to an oversimplification of the true complexity found in neuronal networks. This paper explores the challenges and trade-offs of incorporating both complexity and hubs in brain models. Through a custom-built model featuring five hubs with varying weights and distances, we investigate how these elements interact and influence the emergent network properties such as alpha brain wave patterns. Our findings suggest that a balanced approach that considers both complexity and the presence of hubs yields a more accurate and nuanced understanding of brain network architecture.

INFLUENCE OF LISTENING TO AL-FATIHA ON BLOOD PARAMETERS AND COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS IN PATIENTS WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Background of the Study: Cerebral Palsy also referred as CP is a neurodevelopmental disorder that disturbs balance, blood parameters, cognition, movement, muscle coordination, oral health, and various other functions. Many studies have demonstrated that Quranic verses have therapeutic effects on several diseases. This study explored the influence of listening to Al-Fatiha on blood parameters and cognitive functions in patients with CP. Methodology: This first phase clinical trial was conducted from February 1st to March 30th, 2021 after obtaining ethical permission from the Institutional Bioethics Committee (IBC-2017) and the rehabilitation centre. Inducted pparticipants were assigned randomly into control (11 males and 1 female; age in years 14±5) and Al-Fatiha groups (11 males and 5 females; age in years 14±4.5). The Al-Fatiha group participants received thirty-one structured sessions of listening to Al-Fatiha. Blood analyses encompassed a spectrum of parameters, including blood urea nitrogen, calcium, creatinine, electrolytes, liver function tests, protein levels, and random blood sugar. Cognitive functions were evaluated using 5 Lumosity software games. Paired t-tests and descriptive statistics were performed using SPSS v28. Results: The findings indicated a significant improvement in cognition however, blood parameters remained within normal levels. Alpha brain waves, various hormones, the parasympathetic nervous system, the prefrontal cortex, and the neurotransmitter serotonin have been suggested as potential contributors to improving patients. Conclusion: The findings imply that Al Fatiha can be a therapeutic, non-pharmacological, cost-effective, and miracle approach for the overall improvement of CP patients.

Analysis of an Integrated QEEG-Neurofeedback System Utilizing Active Stimuli for Non-Pharmacological Intervention in Enhancing Neurobehavioral Function

Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) and Neurofeedback (NF) are employed in the diagnosis and treatment of neurobehavioral deficits associated with various clinical conditions. These approaches enable the exploration of EEG usage within the context of neurobehavioral electrophysiology. This study aims to elucidate the fundamental evidence supporting NF and to outline strategies for its further development and application in ameliorating neurobehavioral deficits. Numerous research studies have demonstrated the efficacy of NF in enhancing neurobehavioral functions, including attention, language, memory, visuospatial abilities, and executive function. This study intends to develop an NF system that includes the establishment of a robust approach to QEEG transformation and database. The closed-loop QEEG-NF system under development incorporates active visual and auditory stimuli that leverage stochastic phenomena. The efficacy of the QEEG NF treatment was confirmed with a statistically significant increase in alpha brain wave percentages post-treatment (p = 0.018), indicating that the system effectively enhances alpha brain wave production.

High-rise window views: Evaluating the physiological and psychological impacts of green, blue, and built environments

A growing body of research indicates that visual exposure to nature can enhance mental well-being. However, the impact of such contact through high-rise building windows remains unclear. To address this significant knowledge gap, we utilized aerial drone-captured videos taken from a height of 90 m to present comprehensive visual panoramas encompassing various scenes observed through high-rise building windows. These scenes included three key elements: built structures, greenery, and water bodies. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to view six conditions in a laboratory setting. Physio-psychological responses to each condition were measured using a portable electroencephalogram device, which continuously recorded brainwaves, and ErgoLAB, which monitored heart rate variability. Additionally, participants completed anxiety level assessments and subjective feelings questionnaires. Our findings revealed that visual contact with all window views produced significantly greater positive effects compared to viewing control or built environments. Among the window views, those featuring green space with water or green space alone elicited the most beneficial outcomes, including increased alpha brainwave activity, enhanced parasympathetic nervous system activation, heightened levels of relaxation and comfort, and lower anxiety levels. The study's findings indicate that high-rise building residents can benefit from 4-min exposure to greenery, either with water or alone, through window views, in promoting mental health. The study emphasizes the importance of considering window views in urban high-rise planning and design to enhance the mental health and well-being of city dwellers.

Effect of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus) Essential Oil Inhalation on Brain Waves in Healthy Female Adults in Awake State by Power Spectral Analysis of Quantitative Electro-encephalogram: A Self-controlled Study

Background: Industrialization of society and competitive lifestyle have made our daily life full of stress and people are searching for a convenient way to cope with this. Effect of lemongrass fragrance on brain functions can be analyzed through power spectral analysis of quantitative electroencephalogram (EEG). Objective: To assess the effects of lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus) essential oil aroma inhalation on EEG in healthy female adults in awake state by power spectral analysis. Methods: This self-controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka from March 2022 to February 2023. Thirty healthy female volunteers from this campus participated in this study. Each subject had undergone three successive sessions of baseline, water and essential oil mist inhalation and EEG recording afterwards. Statistical test was done by Student’s paired ‘t’ test and Wilcoxon matched pair signed rank test by using SPSS v.25. Results: Mean ± SD of absolute power of alpha brain wave were significantly higher (p˂0.0001) after inhalation of essential oil mist compared to both baseline and water mist inhalation in all brain regions. The absolute power of beta wave after essential oil mist exposure was significantly higher compared to baseline and water mist exposure in frontal (p=0.0001; p=0.0005), parietal (p=0.0009; p=0.005) and occipital regions (p<0.001). No significant change after inhalation of water mist compared to baseline. Conclusion: Lemongrass essential oil inhalation is effective to induce conscious relaxation, calmness with increased attention and vigilance by increasing power of alpha and beta waves in healthy female adults. JAFMC Bangladesh, Vol 19, No 2 (December) 2023: 32-36

Penerapan Strategi Alpha Zone dalam Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab di Kelas 7 MTs Swasta Tarbiyah Islamiyah Pasia

Using alpha brain waves, the alpha zone technique prepares pupils to absorb information more effectively by putting them in a state of readiness to learn. Therefore, in order to accomplish learning goals, pupils need to be in an alpha state. When someone is in alpha state, they will exhibit behaviors like smiling, laughing, and having a positive attitude. A qualitative approach is used in this investigation. This study's data came straight from MTs S TI Pasia's seventh grade Arabic instructor. In addition, documentation, interviews, and observation were the means of data gathering. The results of this research show that by implementing the alpha zone strategy when teaching Arabic, students will feel comfortable when learning. If students feel comfortable when studying, then the student's expression when studying is a cheerful face, smiling, even laughing. If the student's condition is like that, then the student is already in the alpha zone. Students who are in the alpha zone will make students ready to learn and this strategy can make students who initially don't like learning Arabic become like learning Arabic.

Preventive Detection of Driver Drowsiness from EEG Signals using Fuzzy Expert Systems

Currently, the percentage of traffic accidents has increased, and according to statistics, this percentage will continue to increase every year, so it is necessary to develop new technologies to prevent this kind of accidents. This paper presents a drowsiness detection system based on electroencephalogram (EEG) signals using a pair of channels (Fp1 and Fp2) applied to drivers before entering their vehicles. First, this model detects the relationship between the area under the curve (AUC) of alpha brain waves, an effective parameter for detecting drowsiness. Then, the extracted information is passed to a fuzzy expert system (FES) that classifies the subject's state as "alert" or "sleepy"; the criterion used was a threshold and training with subjective levels. The proposed system was compared with neural network models, such as support vector machine (SVM), K nearest neighbors (KNN), and random forest (RF). Measurements of one hundred and twenty minutes were performed on each of the ten drivers for two days to test the system. The tests confirm that this system is suitable for preventive measures and that the fuzzy system is superior to traditional neural network methods.

Muslim Prayer (Salah), and Its Restorative Effect: Psychophysiological Explanation

Stress is the most common problem experienced by people across ages and is associated with poor psychological and physical health. Stress is related to emotional and mental states that can be seen psychologically, namely relaxed and focused, also physiologically through the central nervous system (CNS) and autonomic nervous system (ANS), both sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic nervous systems (PNS). Salah, as obligatory Muslim worship, is a coping strategy beneficial for psychological and other aspects, such as physical and neurological health. Salah has a restorative effect, such as reducing mental fatigue and stress, as explained by attention restorative theory (ART) and stress restorative theory (SRT). Salah can reduce stress, psychologically and physiologically, indicated by an increment in PNS [nuHF of heart rate variability (HRV), galvanic skin responses (GSR), heart rate (HR), and blood pressure (BP) activity and a decrease in SNS (nuLF and LF/HF of HRV) also increase of alpha brainwave which part of the central nervous system (CNS). In terms of focus, concentration, and awareness, salah is perceived as giving the worshiper a better mental state. In addition, salah increases the gamma power, which is part of CNS and related to awareness. Interestingly, the relaxation effect of salah is higher in the prostration position; also, reciting the Holy Quran while doing salah has higher effects on focus and attention than mimic salah. Apart from the obligation of salah, the psychological and physiological benefits of salah should make a Muslim pray obediently, and the finding that reciting the Holy Quran ayah during salah and prostration has a higher effect shows that remembering Allah is vital.

Effects of acoustic neurostimulation in healthy adults on symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress and sleep quality: a randomized clinical study

Aim: To evaluate the application of an acoustic neurostimulation program with binaural beats and isochronic tones isolated or in association, and its effects on sleep, depression, anxiety, and stress in healthy workers. Methods: A randomized, single-blind, parallel-group clinical trial, using acoustic neurostimulation with binaural beats, isochronic tones, or a combination of these in the 10 Hz range (alpha) performed with daily 20-minute sessions for 21 days. Changes in brainwave patterns were assessed by electroencephalogram (EEG). Psycho-emotional state was assessed with the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 Items (DASS-21), and sleep quality with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). In addition, salivary cortisol levels were evaluated as a biomarker of stress. Results: The data revealed distinct patterns of brainwave modulation via brainwave entrainment (BWE) techniques. Binaural beats and isochronic tones, alone and in combination, effectively increased alpha brainwaves in the temporoparietal region. However, when assessing theta brainwave frequencies in the same region, only binaural beats showed a significant effect. Furthermore, in the prefrontal cortex, an elevation in beta waves was exclusively observed with the use of binaural beats. These findings underscore the specificity of BWE techniques on different brainwave frequencies and regions. The study demonstrated marked improvements in several symptoms related to stress, depression, anxiety, assessed by psychometry with DASS-21 and related to sleep quality assessed by the PSQI. Conclusions: These results indicate that 10 Hz acoustic neurostimulation in the alpha range, whether through binaural beats, isochronic tones, or a combination of both, can significantly influence brainwave patterns and intensity. Notably, participants exhibited decrease in symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety, coupled with improved sleep quality. These data suggest that alpha acoustic neurostimulation holds promise as an effective intervention for bolstering mood, mental health, and overall emotional well-being [Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBec, ensaiosclinicos.gov.br) identifier: RBR-10yj42dj].

Versatile Effects of GABA Oolong Tea on Improvements in Diastolic Blood Pressure, Alpha Brain Waves, and Quality of Life.

Emerging evidence has demonstrated that using a new manufacturing technology to produce γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-fortified oolong (GO) tea could relieve human stress and exert versatile physiological benefits. The purpose of this human study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of daily GO tea consumption on improvements in blood pressure, relaxation-related brain waves, and quality of life (QOL) over a period of 28 consecutive days. Total polyphenols, major catechins, and free amino acids were analyzed via an HPLC assay. Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, α brain waves (index of relaxation), and the eight-item QOL score were investigated on days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28. The chemical analysis results showed that GO tea contained the most abundant amino acids and GABA, contributing to the relaxation activity. Among all study participants, the daily consumption of GO tea could reduce systolic blood pressure on day 21 and diastolic blood pressure on day 28 (p < 0.05 for both). For participants with pre-hypertension, GO tea could effectively reduce heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure on day 28 (p < 0.05). At the end of the study, incremental changes in alpha brain waves and QOL scores were also demonstrated (p < 0.05 for both). This study suggests that GO tea might potentially serve as a natural source for alternative therapy to improve blood pressure, stress relief, and QOL.

A robust brain pattern for brain-based authentication methods using deep breath

Security authentication involves the process of verifying a person's identity. Authentication technology has played a crucial role in data security for many years. However, existing typical biometric authentication technologies exhibit limitations related to usability, time efficiency, and notably, the long-term viability of the method. Recent technological advancements have led to the development of specific devices capable of reproducing human biometrics due to their visibility and tactile nature. Consequently, there is a demand for a new biometric method to address the limitations of current authentication systems. Human brain signals have been utilized in various Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) applications. Nevertheless, this approach also faces challenges related to usability, time efficiency, and most importantly, the stability of the method over time. Studies reveal that the stability of brain patterns poses a significant challenge in EEG-based authentication techniques. Stability refers to the capacity to withstand changes or disruptions, while permanency implies a lasting and unchanging state. Notably, stability can be temporary and subject to fluctuations, whereas permanency suggests a more enduring condition. Research demonstrates that utilizing alpha brainwaves is a superior option for authentication compared to other brainwave types. Many brain states lack stability in different situations. Interestingly, deep breathing can enhance alpha waves irrespective of the brain's current state. To explore the potential of utilizing deep breathing as a security pattern for authentication purposes, an experiment was conducted to investigate its effects on brain activity and its role in enhancing alpha brainwaves. By focusing on bolstering the permanency of brain patterns, our aim is to address the challenges associated with stability in EEG-based authentication techniques. The experimental results exhibited a high success rate of 91 % and 90 % for Support Vector Machine and Neural Network classifiers, respectively. These results suggest that deep breathing not only enhances permanency but could also serve as a suitable option for a brainwave-based authentication method.

Exploring Background Noise During Learning: A Neurofeedback Study

Distinguishing effective background noise during learning is crucial for students. This study was conducted to determine the effective noise background during learning. Two healthy female subjects were recruited for this experiment. They were put in separate brainwave recording sessions for learning tasks without noise and with background noise. Their theta and alpha brainwave readings showed higher activity while learning with background noise. The finding indicated that both brainwaves represented insight and alertness were more dominant during active learning tasks than without noise. However, there was no statistically significant difference in both learning conditions for theta (p = 0.09) and alpha (p = 0.07) brainwaves. The higher activity level during the learning process with background noise could be interpreted as a sign of enhanced cognitive insight and alertness. Nonetheless, the magnitude of the difference observed did not reach a statistically significant level, thus necessitating further investigation and analysis.

Restoring the mind: A neuropsychological investigation of university campus built environment aspects for student well-being

This study explored the role of the built environment of an academic campus in influencing students' perception of mental restoration and well-being, who are constantly at risk of stress and psychological distress. A survey of 429 college students was conducted to identify activity hotspots on campus, and a neuropsychological study involving mobile EEG and Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS) was conducted on 22 students at these hotspots to investigate the role of built environment aspects on restorative approach/neglect behavior and perception of built environment. The study relies on four prominent theoretical constructs in the area, namely Attention Restoration Theory (ART), Stress Reduction Theory (SRT), Arousal Theory, and Prospect & Refuge Theory, to develop combinatory mechanism-based hypotheses for identifying aspects of a mentally resilient campus built-environment. The study's statistical analyses reveal that certain environmental aspects, such as vegetation, novelty/uncertainty, acoustic ambience, and expansive vistas, are positively associated with favourable approach behaviours and normalized average alpha brain waves, while other elements, such as presence of high density of buildings may be related to avoidance behaviours. Greenery and Sky had the most positive relationship with the Normalized Alpha (β = 0.487 and β = 0.352, respectively) while the presence of buildings revealed a negative relationship (β = −0.291), indicating that a stronger building density was linked to a weaker level of normalized alpha waves. The study also shows that natural components such as grass, sky, and filtered and diffused light boost people's perceptions of an environment's restorative characteristics. The findings of the study have the potential to impact campus design and planning strategies that prioritize student well-being and create more hospitable environments for students to thrive, resulting in improved mental health and academic accomplishment.

Analysis of frequency dependent Vedic chanting and its influence on neural activity of humans

&lt;p&gt;In this paper a novel methodology is proposed to identify and to compare the frequency range of different Vedic chantings from Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Veda and Sama Veda. Nowadays in spite of busy schedule and hectic work, the human beings are mostly stressed. To get rid from this stressed state, one of the best solutions is listening Vedic chantings. The alpha brainwaves are in the frequency range of 8-12 Hz under giving relaxation to stressed human being. Three selected samples from each Veda have been processed through the simulation compiler Praat and the parameters like spectral response, pitch, intensity, formants and pulses have observed. In the above identified parameters, the frequency in intensity calculation is taken for each sample. This frequency is compared with the brainwaves for which the frequencies are in the ranges of 0 Hz to &amp;gt;27 Hz (alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta). The extracted signal frequencies from Vedic chantings are compared with frequencies of brainwaves. Among the four Vedas, the frequencies extracted from Sama Veda lies in alpha frequency range. The remaining is fluctuating from alpha.&lt;/p&gt;

User experiences of pre-sleep sensory alpha brainwave entrainment for people with chronic pain and sleep disturbance.

Aim: To explore the user experiences of pre-sleep alpha entrainment via a smartphone-enabled audio or visual stimulation program for people with chronic pain and sleep disturbance. Materials & methods: Semi-structured interviews were held with 27 participants completing a feasibility study of pre-sleep entrainment use for 4weeks. Transcriptions were subject to template analysis. Results: Five top-level themes generated from this analysis are presented. These report on participants' impressions of the pain-sleep relationship, their previous experiences of strategies for these symptoms, their expectations and their experience of use and perceived impact on symptoms of audiovisual alpha entrainment. Conclusion: Pre-sleep audiovisual alpha entrainment was acceptable to individuals with chronic pain and sleep disturbance and perceived to have symptomatic benefits.

Differentiating mental health promotion effects of various bluespaces: An electroencephalography study

A growing body of literature suggests that visual contact with bluespace may benefit people's mental health. However, whether these benefits vary with the type of bluespace and length of contact duration is unclear. We addressed this critical knowledge gap by conducting a photograph-based experimental study to examine individual mental responses (n = 30) to three types of bluespace (Falling, Flowing, and Static bluespaces) and one control condition (Streetspaces).The participants were assigned to view four conditions in a random sequence in a laboratory. The effect of each condition on mental health was primarily measured through a portable electroencephalogram (EEG) device that continuously recorded brainwaves throughout each contact. We then administered the Restorative Components Scale (RCS) questionnaire as a secondary measure to the participants, who reported psychological states immediately after each contact.We have four main findings. First, visual contact with all three bluespaces yielded significantly greater mental health promotion effects than visual contact with streetspace. Second, the promotion effects of bluespaces varied, and the Falling bluespace was found to be the most beneficial type, as contact with it yielded the highest level of alpha brainwaves, the lowest level of beta brainwaves, and the highest score on the RCS questionnaire. Third, the type of environment appears to be the main factor, and contact duration appears to be the minor factor in explaining the differences in the mental health promotion effects. Finally, a 3-min contact with bluespaces is sufficient to promote mental health. We provide suggestions for future research into bluespaces and how bluespaces can be used to promote urban residents' mental health and well-being.

A Comparative Investigation to Observe the Effect of the Recitation of Al-Quran and Classical Music on Alpha Brain Wave in Medical Students

A Comparative Investigation to Observe the Effect of the Recitation of Al-Quran and Classical Music on Alpha Brain Wave in Medical Students

ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL PROFILE CHANGES IN THE BRAIN DUE TO NOISE IN HYPERTENSION PATIENTS

This study aims to determine the relationship of the potential profile of the brain to noise so that it can affect changes in blood pressure. This research is a type of observational research conducted by treating hypertension and normal blood pressure test. The treatment given was to record brain waves that were given various disturbances of sound intensity levels of 100 dB, 110 dB and 120 dB with a single frequency = 12,000 Hz which was obtained from mosquito noise sources. The recording was done for 60 seconds for each treatment and the data was taken every 2 seconds on the results of the Electroencephalogram (EEG). The analysis used is the FFT test which is generated from the Electroencephalogram (EEG) recording through the program work Labscribeand paired t-test using the SPSS program. The results showed that at varying levels of sound intensity and frequency 12,000 Hz produced theta (hypertension) and alpha (normal blood pressure) brain waves which produced serotonin hormones and caused dilation of blood vessels so that blood pressure decreased. The results of the t-test showed that there was an effect on normal tests on diastole and no effect on systole.

Mukbang and Me: Implications on Cognition and Physical Well-Being among Undergraduates

Mukbang has become a global eating trend, especially among youths. Mukbang is mainly prevalent on social media platforms and has become addictive content for many who follow such videos. This study explores the effects of watching mukbang on cognitive functions, health problems and social interaction patterns. The study uses neurofeedback to analyse the brainwaves of selected participants who are university-going youths and have a regular habit of watching Mukbang every day. Two situations were recorded using neurofeedback; the first is only watching Mukbang passively, while the other is where the participant watched Mukbang and ate something simultaneously. A beta and alpha brainwave data were chosen to be analysed. Findings showed that the beta brainwave was recorded the highest in watching mukbang passively while the alpha was the highest during watching and eating mukbang. The result shows that anxiety, excitement, and focus were associated with the highest beta waves, while optimal cognitive performance was related to the activation of the upper alpha wave. The analysis provides a perspective to understand the effect of Mukbang on youths, specifically those currently studying at the tertiary level. The study links how idle interest in Mukbang affects cognitive activities and potentially triggers bingeing, worsening the relationship with food. Future research should examine how Mukbang encourages the diet Mukbangers would be tempted to adopt as daily food intake and how it affects long-term cognitive development among university-going youths.