A conceptional framework for combining brain mapping and brain stimulation

Here, we introduce a conceptual framework for studies that combine non-invasive transcranial brain stimulation (NTBS) with neuroimaging. We outline the type of neuroscientific questions that can be addressed with a combined NTBS-neuroimaging approach and describe important experimental considerations. Neuroimaging methods differ with respect to their spatiotemporal resolution and reflect different neurobiological aspects of brain function, structure or metabolism. These characteristics need to be carefully considered in order to select the most appropriate neuroimaging modality. NTBS and neuroimaging can be combined concurrently (online) or sequentially (offline). The “online” approach applies neuroimaging while NTBS is delivered to the brain and thus, can reveal the immediate functional effects of NTBS on the targeted brain networks, but one has to deal with interfering effects of NTBS on brain mapping. The “offline” approach applies neuroimaging and NTBS in sequence: Offline neuroimaging can be performed BEFORE the stimulation session to inform NTBS parameter setting or AFTER the stimulation session to provide functional, metabolic or structural readouts of NTBS-effects. Since NTBS and neuroimaging can be separated in space and time, NTBS does not interfere with offline brain mapping. Finally, we discuss how NTBS and neuroimaging are gaining importance in clinical NTBS applications and how both techniques can be iteratively combined to create open-loop setups.

Combining transcranial brain stimulation and PET/SPECT molecular imaging

Transcranial brain stimulation (TMS) was introduced in 1985 by Barker and his colleagues. Since then, further improvements in technology have allowed additional applications and new stimulation protocols. In the last decade, while the use of TMS has expanded enormously in basic science as well as in the clinical scenario, the underlying neurophysiological or neurochemical mechanisms are still not fully understood. Positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) are neuroimaging modalities utilized to investigate brain functions. In spite of their lower spatial and time resolution compared with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG), PET/SPECT have helped to elucidate some of the neurochemical mechanisms and neural plastic changes associated with TMS. In this chapter, we will provide an overview of these techniques, describing methodological details and application of TMS-PET/SPECT imaging in basic and clinical studies.

Transcranial brain stimulation and EEG/MEG

Noninvasive transcranial brain stimulation (NTBS) techniques, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct or alternating current stimulation (TDCS/TACS) can be combined with electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG). The combination of NTBS and EEG/MEG can 1) inform brain stimulation (where, when, and how to stimulate), and 2) reveal aftereffects of stimulation induced changes in cortical activity, and interregional connectivity (offline approach), as well as the immediate neuronal response to the stimulation (online approach). While offline approaches allow to separate NTBS and EEG/MEG in space and time, online approaches require concurrent stimulation and recording. While TMS and MEG cannot be combined online, concurrent TMS-EEG as well as TDCS/TACS-MEG/EEG are feasible but pose a range of methodological challenges at the technical and conceptual level. This chapter provides an introduction into the principal experimental approaches and research questions that can be tackled by the combination of transcranial brain stimulation and EEG/MEG. We review the technical challenges arising from concurrent recordings as well as measures to avoid or remove stimulation artefacts. We also discuss the conceptual caveats and required control conditions.

Transcranial brain stimulation and structural MRI

Non-invasive transcranial brain stimulation (NTBS) benefits in multiple ways from structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI). Individual structural brain scans can be used to guide spatial targeting with frameless stereotaxy. For instance, sMRI informed transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) enables personalized cortical mapping aligned to the individual gyral anatomy. Segmented sMRI scans increase the accuracy and robustness of computational dosimetry approaches which are key to standardize the individual dose across individuals, mapping the NTBS induced electrical fields onto the individual brain. Several sMRI modalities can be used to identify macro and microstructural features that are related to the physiological and behavioral effects of NTBS. Structural MRI before NTBS can identify interindividual variations in brain structure that influence NTBS outcomes, including disease or age related anatomical changes. Repeated structural MRI measurements can trace NTBS induced changes in regional macro and microstructure. NTBS based functional markers can be combined with MRI based structural markers to predict disease progression or recovery in individual patients.

Evidence-Based Approach and Discussion of ‘Bioceramic Resonance’ to Induce Altered States of Consciousness with Illusory Perception: Possible Application as a Complementary and Alternative Therapy

By combing these results and our previous objective data of electroencephalographic brain wave activity and the locations of brain activation during 3T functional MRI scanning, we hypothesis that the phenomenon observed in this study mimics the psychotherapeutic effects of transcranial brain stimulation, which may probably explain by induction of cerebral electrical discharge and change of synchronous neuronal activity. We discussed the possibility of complementary and alternative therapy on different psychiatric and neurological disorders.

Modern Foreign Neurocognitive Approaches to the use of the Music-Enriched Environment in the Rehabilitation of Aphasic Disorders and Alzheimer's type Dementia

This paper presents an analysis of current foreign trends in neurocognitive rehabilitation of cognitive disorders in Alzheimer's dementia (AD) and neuropsychological rehabilitation of the most common form of vascular cognitive disorders (VCD) - aphasia. Two approaches to the restoration of higher mental functions (HMF), based on a different understanding of the neuroplasticity mechanisms, are described. The description presents non-invasive and functional methods of direct stimulation of HMF. Various methods of transcranial brain stimulation and Intensive Language-Action Therapy (ILAT) are reviewed and analyzed. The data of experimental studies present the application of these methods to the restoration of Broca's aphasia. The paper also considers an approach to neurorehabilitation based on the methodology of "workaround" recovery of HMF using sensory-enriched environment. The article describes and analyzes the theoretical foundations of Music Intonation Therapy (MIT), Thérapie mélodique est rythmée) (TMR), palliative MIT, Music Therapy (MT). The paper carries out an analytical review of the implementation of abovementioned methods in aphasics. Also, programs and neurocognitive correction methods in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are considered. The paper describes the possibilities of using active and passive MT, STAM-DEM Therapy, and Multimodal Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (MCET) in AD. The study presents the data of systematic and meta-analytical reviews on their use in MCI. The paper describes the methodology of "musical" neuropsychological diagnostics in dementia.

Justification of a New Solution in the Field of Stroke Rehabilitation

This research consists in the creation of a hardware-software complex for the rehabilitation of stroke patients. The device is designed for rehabilitation of patients after acute disorders of cerebral blood circulation with severe neurotraumas. The device is based on two existing rehabilitation technologies: the method of transcranial brain stimulation with the help of a magnetic neurostimulator, and the development of hand motility with the help of gloves. The combination of these two methods will allow patients to recover effectively, even at home, after they was suffering from neurotrauma. Keywords: stroke, ischemic, rehabilitation, biofeedback, paresis, brain, computer, mechanized glove, hardware, and software complex, CNS diseases, integration, TMS, magnetic neurostimulator