Design principle of multi-cluster and desynchronized states in oscillatory media via nonlinear global feedback

A theoretical framework is developed for a precise control of spatial patterns in oscillatory media using nonlinear global feedback, where a proper form of the feedback function corresponding to a specific pattern is predicted through the analysis of a phase diffusion equation with global coupling. In particular, feedback functions that generate the following spatial patterns are analytically given: i) 2-cluster states with an arbitrary population ratio, ii) equally populated multi-cluster states, and iii) a desynchronized state. Our method is demonstrated numerically by using the Brusselator model in the oscillatory regime. Experimental realization is also discussed.Comment: 18 pages, 4 figures, accepted in New Journal of Physic

Advances in closed-loop deep brain stimulation devices

BACKGROUND: Millions of patients around the world are affected by neurological and psychiatric disorders. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a device-based therapy that could have fewer side-effects and higher efficiencies in drug-resistant patients compared to other therapeutic options such as pharmacological approaches. Thus far, several efforts have been made to incorporate a feedback loop into DBS devices to make them operate in a closed-loop manner. METHODS: This paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the existing research-based and commercial closed-loop DBS devices. It describes a brief history of closed-loop DBS techniques, biomarkers and algorithms used for closing the feedback loop, components of the current research-based and commercial closed-loop DBS devices, and advancements and challenges in this field of research. This review also includes a comparison of the closed-loop DBS devices and provides the future directions of this area of research. RESULTS: Although we are in the early stages of the closed-loop DBS approach, there have been fruitful efforts in design and development of closed-loop DBS devices. To date, only one commercial closed-loop DBS device has been manufactured. However, this system does not have an intelligent and patient dependent control algorithm. A closed-loop DBS device requires a control algorithm to learn and optimize the stimulation parameters according to the brain clinical state. CONCLUSIONS: The promising clinical effects of open-loop DBS have been demonstrated, indicating DBS as a pioneer technology and treatment option to serve neurological patients. However, like other commercial devices, DBS needs to be automated and modernized

Delayed feedback control of synchronization in locally coupled neuronal networks

We present a novel, particularly robust technique for effective desynchronization of neuronal populations in the presence of noise. Delayed feedback signals are administered in a spatially coordinated way via four stimulation sites using different delays for each stimulation site, respectively. The technique is numerically tested in a phase oscillator model and in a physiologically realistic model. We propose our methods as novel, particularly mild and effective stimulation protocols for the therapy of patients suffering from Parkinson's disease, essential tremor or epilepsy. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved