Bright light transmits through the brain: Measurement of photon emissions and frequency-dependent modulation of spectral electroencephalographic power

Photons are emitted during brain activity and when applied externally alter its functional connectivity during the resting state. In the present study we applied constant or time varying light (~10,000 lux) stimuli to one side of the skull and measured by photomultiplier tubes the photon density emitted from the opposite side of the skull along its two horizontal planes. Global quantitative electroencephalographic activity (QEEG) was recorded simultaneously. Reliable increases of ~2.5 × 10-11 W· m-2 during either constant or specific flash frequencies between 3 and 7 Hz as well as enhanced QEEG power in the theta and low beta range were measured. According to source localization by Low Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography (LORETA) the right parahippocampal region was particularly enhanced. Calculations employing known quantitative values for permeability and permittivity of brain tissue were consistent with this frequency band. Estimated concentrations of protons from hydronium ions indicated a Grotthuss chain-like process for moving photon energy through the cerebral medium may have mediated the distance-dependent latency. The results suggest that external light is transmitted through cerebral tissue, can be measured externally, and significantly affects functional connectivity. The findings support the conclusions of Starck et al. (World Journal Neuroscience, 2012).

Minimum Attenuation of Physiologically-Patterned, 1 µTesla Magnetic Fields through Simulated Skull and Cerebral Space

To answer the queries concerning penetrability of ~1 μT, physiologically patterned, time-varying magnetic fields through the cranium, the proportions of attenuation through thicknesses and densities of ~3 times that of the human skull were measured directly. There was no reduction in the intensity of the magnetic field when two 2 cm thick dried pine boards (4.3 × 103 kg·m-3) were placed between the pairs of solenoids separated by the approximate width of the skull. Although volumes of water containing intracellular concentrations of ions did not attenuate the field intensity, placement of 290 cm2 of 2 mm sheets of duct metal reduced the amplitude by 25%. Spectra comparisons showed a clear congruence in profiles between direct measurement of the applied field and the original computer-generated pattern. These results indicate there is little validity to claims that weak, time-varying magnetic fields applied in this manner are eliminated or significantly attenuated by the human skull.

Human Quantitative Electroencephalographic and Schumann Resonance Exhibit Real-Time Coherence of Spectral Power Densities: Implications for Interactive Information Processing

Spectral Power Densities (SPD) within the Quantitative Electroencephalographic (QEEGs) Profiles of 41 men and women displayed repeated transient coherence with the first three modes (7 - 8 Hz, 13 - 14 Hz, and 19 - 20 Hz) of the Schumann Resonance in real time. The duration of the coherence was about 300 ms about twice per min. Topographical map clusters indicated that the domain of maximum coherence was within the right caudal hemisphere near the Parahippocampal gyrus. These clusters, associated with shifts of about 2 μV, became stable about 35 to 45 ms after the onset of the synchronizing event. During the first 10 to 20 ms, the isoelectric lines shifted from clockwise to counterclockwise rotation. The results are consistent with the congruence of the frequency, magnetic field intensity, voltage gradient, and phase shifts that are shared by the human brain and the earth-ionospheric spherical wave guide. Calculations indicated that under certain conditions interactive information processing might occur for brief periods. Natural and technology-based variables affecting the Schumann parameters might be reflected in human brain activity, including modifications of cognition and dream-related memory consolidation.