Very low frequency EEG oscillations and the resting brain in young adults: a preliminary study of localisation, stability and association with symptoms of inattention

S. Helps, C. James, S. Debener, A. Karl, E. J S Sonuga-Barke*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    Background - Spontaneous very low frequency oscillations (VLFO: <0.2Hz) in functional magnetic-resonance imaging are proposed to identify a default-mode network of resting brain activity. Activity in this network has been related to lapses of attention during goal-directed tasks and may provide a basis for ADHD. This study assessed the relation between scalp-recorded EEG VLFO at rest and ADHD.

    Methods - 13 young adults with high- and 11 with low self-ratings of ADHD participated. Direct current EEG was recorded during a five minute rest session and was retested after approximately 1 week.

    Results - A consistent and temporally stable pattern of VLFOs was observed across specific scalp regions in low-ADHD participants. High-ADHD participants had less VLFO power across these locations, especially where inattention self-ratings were high. Inattention was not related to VLFO power in other locations.

    Discussion - Initial evidence is provided for a pattern of VLFOs at rest which is associated with inattention symptoms.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)279-285
    Number of pages7
    JournalJournal of Neural Transmission
    Volume115
    Issue number2
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Feb 2008

    Keywords

    • Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
    • Default mode
    • Direct current EEG
    • Low frequency oscillations
    • Resting state
    • Spontaneous neuronal activity
    • Young adults

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