MindStream Examples of Use

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Executing a Recording

After the MindStream software has started we can create a new user profile. In doing so, there are several key fields that have to be entered like name, date of birth and gender. Additionally, information about the inspector and the patient registry no. can also be entered.

Now the electrodes have to be positioned. To do that, we can chose from different positioning-formats to begin with.

In this example we chose the front region and place the electrodes according to the image. The electrodes have the same color as the round symbols which makes it easy to install them. After that the electro-impedance is checked and we arrange the electrodes so long as the black bars shift over to the green region. Sometimes there has to be some electrode paste added or the skin needs to be cleaned again. With a little experience the electrodes are ready to go after five minutes.

The MindMaster^® EEG then executes an automatic calibration. We do not have to do anything now.

During a one-minute baseline, the arrangement of the electrode is inspected and the individual Alpha-frequency is calculated.

The individual Alpha-frequency is not relevant for a recording but measured anyway. The baseline test has to be done because it is absolutely essential for the electrodes to be arranged in the right position.

Now we see the recording-view and can start the actual recording.

Hopefully you have gained a sufficient overview over the recording and how easy it can be executed. But even if you do not allocate everything right away please have in mind that the instruction manual that comes with the software is far more in detail as all the information on this website.

Performing a Neurofeedback-Training

First of all, you have to define the parameters of a training session.
How this is done you can find out here: Features.

When you have chosen the parameters of a neurofeedback-training, the first steps are exactly the same as with a recording procedure.
You create a new user profile or chose from an existing one.
Afterwards you install the electrodes and test the right arrangement of them via electro-impedance testing

The MindMaster^® EEG executes an automatic calibration
During the following one-minute baseline, the arrangement of the electrode is inspected and the individual Alpha-frequency is calculated.
Here comes an explanation:

Individual Alpha-Frequency (IAF)

Most humans have a characteristic cerebral activity of 10 Hz frequency, while they are awake.
Which frequency has the most cerebral activity differs from person to person.
Just as with the cognitive capability, the individual Alpha-frequency (IAF) changes according to the span of life of a human. Infants usually have an Alpha-frequency of 4,5 Hz, adolescents have about 10,5 Hz.

The determination and application of the frequency of the characteristic cerebral activity of a user can lead to enhanced training advancements.

In the beginning of a training session the IAF is calculated during the baseline and is displayed in the lower part of the dialogue. If the IAF deflects from the average human value by more than 1 Hz, you should chose the button "IAF-Werte benutzen" to progress to the session.

Thereby the frequency bands are adapted to the IAF by:

• Delta => 0 to IAF-6
• Theta => IAF -6 to IAF -3
• Alpha => IAF -3 to IAF +2
• low Beta (SMR) => IAF +2 to IAF +5
• mediocre Beta => IAF +5 to IAF +8
• high Beta => IAF +8 to IAF +25

The adaptation then influences the filters that were chosen for the training! The bottom line is, that better frequency ranges for this user will be trained.

After the baseline is completed and you have decided wether you want to use the standardized oder the special IAF values, the training perspective appears.

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