Biology subjects

Ninenko, I.

Publications and source records attributed to Ninenko, I..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2023

The olfactory-based neurofeedback of the EEG alpha rhythm

Neurofeedback (NFB) is a form of biofeedback that enables subjects to monitor and control their own brain activity. To communicate with the subject, modern NFB training methodologies utilize various signaling mechanisms, typically visual and/or auditory stimuli. Olfaction has not been explored yet as a way to deliver NFB. Here we developed an olfactory-based NFB system based on electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings in human participants. The system incorporates an EEG recording apparatus, a custom olfactory display for the automated delivery of Sniffin Sticks, and a Python application for the conversion of EEG rhythms into NFB signals and controlling behavioral tasks. We tested occipital alpha rhythm as the source of NFB. Fifteen healthy participants were randomly assigned to three groups: olfactory neurofeedback, auditory NFB, and mock-olfactory NFB. NFB training resulted in an increase of alpha power in the true NFB groups, but not in the mock NFB group where the alpha power decreased, probably because of fatigue and drowsiness. Based on these results, we conclude that olfactory NFB is feasible, and lay out a framework for its future development.

neuroscience↗

bioRxiv2023

Resting-state EEG recorded with gel-based versus consumer dry electrodes: spectral characteristics and across-device correlations

Recordings of electroencephalographic (EEG) rhythms and their analyses have been instrumental in basic Neuroscience, clinical diagnostics, and the field of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). While in the past such measurements have been conducted mostly in laboratory settings, recent advancements in dry electrode technology pave way to a broader range of consumer and medical application because of their greater convenience compared to gel-based electrodes. Here we conducted resting-state EEG recordings in two groups of healthy participants using three dry-electrode devices, the Neiry Headband, the Neiry Headphones and the Muse Headband, and one standard gel electrode-based system, the NVX. We examined signal quality for various spatial and spectral ranges which are essential for cognitive monitoring and consumer applications. Distinctive characteristics of signal quality were found, with the Neiry Headband showing sensitivity in low-frequency ranges and replicating the modulations of delta, theta and alpha power corresponding to the eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions, and the NVX system performing well in capturing high-frequency oscillations. The Neiry Headphones were more prone to low-frequency artifacts compared to the Neiry Headband, yet recorded modulations in alpha power and had a strong alignment with the NVX at higher frequencies. The Muse Headband had several limitations in signal quality. We suggest that while dry-electrode technology appears to be appropriate for the EEG rhythm-based applications the potential benefits of these technologies in terms of ease of use and accessibility should be carefully weighted against the capacity of each concrete system.

neuroscience↗

bioRxiv2022

EEG correlates of olfactory processing during an instructed-delay task

EEG correlates of olfaction are of fundamental and practical interest for many reasons. In the field of neural technologies, olfactory-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) represent an approach that could be useful for neurorehabilitation of anosmia, dysosmia and hyposmia. While the idea of a BCI that decodes neural responses to different odors and/or enables odor-based neurofeedback is appealing, the results of previous EEG investigations into the olfactory domain are rather inconsistent, particularly when non-primary processing of olfactory signals is concerned. Here we report the results from an EEG study where an olfaction-based instructed-delay task was implemented. We utilized an olfactory display and a sensor of respiration to present odors in a strictly controlled fashion. Spatio-spectral EEG properties were analyzed to assess the olfactory-related components. Under these experimental conditions, EEG components representing processing of olfactory information were found around channel C4, where changes were detected for the 12-Hz spectral component. Additionally, significant differences in EEG patterns were observed when responses to odors were compared to the responses to odorless stimuli. We conclude EEG recordings are suitable for detecting active processing of odors. As such they could be integrated in a BCI that strives to rehabilitate olfactory disabilities or uses odors for hedonistic purposes.

neuroscience↗