Deep Brain Stimulation Modulates Time Processing
Author Information
Author(s): Wojtecki Lars, Elben Saskia, Timmermann Lars, Reck Christiane, Maarouf Mohammad, Jörgens Silke, Ploner Markus, Südmeyer Martin, Groiss Stefan Jun, Sturm Volker, Niedeggen Michael, Schnitzler Alfons
Primary Institution: Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
Hypothesis
Can subthalamic deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) modulate timing in a frequency-dependent manner in Parkinson's disease patients?
Conclusion
The study found that 10 Hz STN-DBS worsened interval timing for 15-second intervals, while ≥130 Hz stimulation improved performance.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients and controls over(re-)produced the 5 s interval and under(re-)produced the 15 s interval.
- 10 Hz stimulation significantly enhanced the 15 s under(re-)production effect compared to no stimulation and ≥130 Hz.
- Millisecond timing was not significantly affected by any stimulation condition.
Takeaway
Doctors used a special brain treatment to see if it could help people with Parkinson's disease tell time better. They found that one setting made it worse, while another made it better.
Methodology
The study used a double-blind, randomized, within-subject repeated-measures design to assess timing in Parkinson's disease patients under different stimulation frequencies.
Potential Biases
Possible bias due to the effects of medication withdrawal and attention during tasks.
Limitations
The small sample size and potential biases from motor performance and attention were noted as limitations.
Participant Demographics
12 patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (mean age 64 years, 6 male, 6 female) and 12 age-matched healthy controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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