Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 3-7-2025

Abstract

Slow-wave sleep is critical for consolidating information into long-term memory. Past research has found this process can be enhanced using closed-loop auditory stimulation (CLAS), where pink noise tones are timed to slow oscillations using live EEG to increase slow wave amplitude and synchronize connections across the neocortex, thalamus, and hippocampus. In this study, subjects slept in our laboratory while receiving counterbalanced sham or verum CLAS. Memory retention scores were calculated using a paired associates word task completed before and after sleep. Subjective sleep quality scores were also obtained. A total of 33 verum and 35 sham nights of data were collected across 21 individuals. Linear mixed models did not find significantly different retention or sleep quality scores between sham and verum nights. Less noise in slow oscillation signal was significantly correlated to greater detection and stimulation of slow oscillations during verum nights alongside a trending relationship to higher retention.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Vincent P. Clark, Ph.D.

Second Committee Member

Jeremy Hogeveen, Ph.D.

Third Committee Member

Eric Ruthruff, Ph.D.

Language

English

Keywords

brain stimulation, closed-loop auditory stimulation, memory consolidation, cognitive enhancement, sleep, electroencephalography

Document Type

Thesis

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Psychology Commons

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