Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
Special Issue
The Future of
Biofeedback
Instrumentation
Guest Editor,
Richard Sherman, PhD
FROM THE
EDITORS
The articles in this issue reflect the opinions of the authors, and do not
reflect the policies or official guidelines of AAPB, unless stated otherwise.
Abstract: A number of ethical and legal devices are those for which special controls Notification so that the FDA can determine
issues related to instrumentation exist. First, is are considered necessary by the FDA for if the equipment is “substantially equiva-
the importance of buying equipment that is assuring safety and effectiveness and where lent” to a legally marketed device that does
safe and effective. FDA approval is one way of there are existing methods for providing not require premarket approval. “Unless
ensuring that the equipment is safe and effec- such assurances. Special controls can exempted from premarket notification require-
tive. Second, practitioners are responsible for include guidance documents, special label- ments, persons may not market a new device,
maintaining the equipment that they buy and ing requirements, mandatory performance under section 510(K), unless they receive a
being competent in its use. Third, practitioners standards, and post market surveillance substantial equivalence order from the FDA or
should be aware of the potential risks associat- (www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmaclas.html). an order reclassifying the device into Class I or
ed with allowing clients to take equipment There is a process for getting the FDA Class II (section 513(I) of the Act).”
home for home training and with the rare to classify a Class II device as exempt (www.fda.gov/cdrh/modact/frclass2.html,
occurrence of adverse reactions associated with from the 510(K) Premarket Notification p.2). There is now one exception, and that
biofeedback in general. Fourth, practitioners requirements. As of September 1998, 62 is for the selling of battery operated
doing neurofeedback should be aware that the devices are exempt from the Premarket biofeedback equipment used for relaxation
use of pre and post treatment EEGs and/or Notification requirements (See the FDA training or muscle reeducation. The FDA
QEEGs is still a decision that needs to be Modernization Act Information at has the regulatory authority to exempt a
made by individual clinicians since little sys- www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmaclas.html). Class II device from the 510(k) requirement
tematic data is available in this area. Last, These Class II devices are listed on the and has done so for battery operated
those practitioners doing telebiofeedback FDA’s Medical Device Exemptions page biofeedback equipment, which it evidently
and/or electronic billing should be familiar (www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmaclas.html). considers to be safe and effective
with relevant laws and procedures for ensuring Class III devices require the most stringent (www.fda.gov/cdrh/modact/frclass2.html).
client confidentiality. regulation because insufficient information Other FDA requirements must still be
exists for assuring safety and effectiveness met. One FDA website
Introduction and these devices are generally those that (www.fda.gov/cdrh/ode/143.html) states,
When biofeedback equipment is used for support or sustain human life. Because and I quote, “Biofeedback devices to be pro-
treatment purposes, it is generally classified of the difficulty associated with writing moted for indications other than relaxation
by the Food and Drug Administration about the complex and confusing FDA require prescription legend pursuant to Title
(FDA) as a Class II Medical Device requirements, I am presenting information 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Section
(www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmaclas.html). from FDA sources and am referring readers 801.109…” The FDA rules are far too
Medical devices have varying levels of risks to those sources for clarifications and more complex to discuss further here and addi-
and benefits and the degree of regulation is information. For example, it is unclear tional regulations that pertain to biofeed-
based on the level of control that the FDA to me based on what I have read, whether back exist. As such, readers are referred to
considers necessary to assure the safety and the FDA has any authority or regulations the FDA website (www.fda.gov).
effectiveness of the device. There are three that pertain to the use of biofeedback
levels of classification. Class I devices have equipment if it is used for non treatment
Manufacturer and
the lowest level of regulation because they purposes. Practitioner
present a minimal level of risk for harm.
General controls such as registration, fol-
For biofeedback equipment first manu- Responsibility
factured after 1976 (Medical Devices Act of So what does this mean for the practi-
lowing the Good Manufacturing Practices, 1976, www.rsna.org/REG/research/
and labeling are considered sufficient for tioner? It means that if a piece of equip-
regulatory/monsein2ii.html), unless exempted ment has been exempted or received
ensuring safety and effectiveness. About from the requirements, manufactures are
93% of Class I devices are exempted from Premarket Approval from the FDA, it is
generally required to file a 510(k) Premarket considered by the FDA to be safe and effec-
the premarket notification process. Class II
Abstract: The author praises the sophistica- to know why? It’s mostly because I got a signal was attenuated to about one tenth of
tion of today’s biofeedback instrumentation, real punch in the head from reality a couple its actual size - so the values looked pretty
which provides many features simplifying clin- of weeks ago -- direct from a therapist who normal. Second and third, the sensors were
ical practice in biofeedback. He cautions on has been doing “biofeedback” for umpteen not applied along the bodies of the muscles
the continued need for adequate practitioner years. This therapist sent me a patient who of interest – just in the general area. They
training, and careful adherence to basic quali- has mysterious headaches. She has no obvi- were partially over irrelevant muscles and at
ty control, including such principles as skin ous traumatic onset, no trigger points, rea- random angles to their lengths so all kinds
preparation, equipment maintenance, physio- sonable posture, tenses her jaw when she of extraneous signals crept into the record-
logically appropriate electrode placement, gets upset, has an apparently normal jaw ing – which accounted for most of the
bandwidth selection, and use of up to date joint but grinds her teeth at night, and feels power the sensors picked up. Fourth, the
assessment protocols. He applauds the future of her shoulders and neck tense up before her therapist had not checked to see if the
biofeedback but warns that incompetence will headache begins. From the symptoms, the machine and sensor cables were intact and
undermine that future. therapist thought the headaches should be working properly for years. One of the leads
Here’s how I was going to start this really at least somewhat related to muscle tension tuned out to have an intermittent loose
upbeat article: “Remember the days when in the jaws and shoulders. Wouldn’t you? connection at the sensor head. Fifth, the
you used to have to scrape the top layer off But when the therapist did sEMG record- device was set to the wrong bandwidth to
patients’ skins with abrasive soap and sand ings of the jaws and shoulders, the muscles show proportional tension in the trapezius
paper in order to get impedance down low were virtually silent. So what could be caus- muscle. Sixth, the patient was just sitting
enough to get good EMG and EEG record- ing the pain? Thus, the referral to me. there during the recording. No stress
ings? We all gave thanks to the manufac- Communication being what it is, I didn’t response profile, no movements, no postur-
turers when those days disappeared forever get the word that an exam incorporating al adjustments were done to elicit muscular
so all anybody had to do to get a decent sig- sEMG recordings had been done. So, after responses relevant to the situation at hand.
nal was rub the skin with some alcohol and hearing the patient’s symptoms, I did my I’ve got to tell you that this just about made
push in a bit of conducting gel. With the typical recordings of the jaw and shoulders. me want to drop biofeedback equipment
new equipment and sensors you don’t even The jaw muscles were three times normal into a hole. Here our manufacturers are cre-
have to do that! There’s been another revo- and the upper traps were four times normal ating nearly miraculous equipment which:
lution! All you need to do is wash the – and she couldn’t recognize tension in nor • checks itself for improper functioning
patient with soap and water – or perhaps relax them to normal levels with coaching. and noise – if you run the sub-routine.
not even that. No more messy jells to worry When I compared notes with the referring • shows you the raw signals (even with
about drying out. No more need for lots of therapist, we were both surprised to find power spectra) for each signal so you
double stick tape to hold on weird little that we had both apparently done the same can easily spot artifacts – if you look.
cups. Lots of systems don’t have noise gen- evaluation and had gotten very different • has displays showing which leads go to
erating, tangling wires – some don’t even results. which parts of the body and plug into
have wires at all. Just slap on the sensors So, what happened? Was the patient just which socket on the equipment – if you
and go for it. And that’s just the beginning. tense as a charging rhino for me but loose look at the display.
These gems can tell you when the signal is as a sleeping puppy for the therapist? Could • has displays which show when leads are
bad, operate without noisy / tangling wires, have been – but it wasn’t. What really hap- out of impedance range – if you run
tell you where to plug sensors into the pened was a whole litany of fiascos that led that routine before starting your record-
equipment, and still more! The new equip- to a “garbage in - garbage out” result. First, ing.
ment will just take your breath away.” the therapist didn’t do any site preparation
But I’m not going to start that way. Want at all. Skin impedance was so high that the continued on Page 18
A Living Compendium of
Information on Biofeedback
Devices
Richard Sherman, Ph.D Nanny H. Christie,
Richard A. Sherman, PhD, BCIAC MA, LPC, BCIAC
Chair, AAPB Research and Instrumentation Committee
Behavioral Medicine Research and Training Foundation
Suquamish Washington
Amy Coleman
Chapman University, Bangor Washington
Amy Coleman
It has been nearly ten years since AAPB’s research & instrumentation committee compiled a list of available biofeedback devices and
their characteristics. An incredible amount has happened during that decade. Instruments – especially their sensors, software, and capabili-
ties – have undergone a revolution so even the questions on the old list are obsolete.
Questions for the new survey of equipment capabilities were generated by the authors and then sent for comment by three manufactur-
ers. The highly revised list of questions was incorporated into a survey sent to all biofeedback equipment manufacturers known to AAPB.
Data from the respondents has been incorporated into a spread sheet which is summarized below and which will be available on AAPB’s
web site (www.aapb.org) indefinitely.
A major strength of maintaining the survey on the web site is that manufacturers can update the information as their equipment
changes and as new equipment comes out. One of the first columns in the spread sheet is the date the data were updated so readers will
know how current the information on the particular item is.
The spreadsheet is vertically organized into four categories:
A. Computer-Based, Multichannel Systems not intended for ambulatory or
home use
B. Ambulatory / Home Trainers
C. Stand alone Single / Dual parameter non-computer based systems
Manufacturers please note:
D. Software not supplied with the equipment If we failed to contact you or somehow didn’t
Within each section, each of the spreadsheet’s rows is used for one item of include your information, please contact the
equipment. A manufacturer selling several devices within one category would senior author (rsherman@nwinet.com) for a sur-
have one row for each device. The questions for each category are spaced horizon- vey and we will add your information to the
tally across the width of the spreadsheet. The full list of questions are shown on spreadsheet appearing on the website.
the following page, followed by an abbreviated sample of the spreadsheet which If you want to change or add material, just
appears on AAPB’s website. contact the senior author and the new material
will be incorporated.
Brainmaster Technologies, Inc.” rechargable audio other raw data pulsed tone EEG no yes photic stim- Number of channels of input: 2 yes yes no EMG:
24490 Broadway Ave. #2 battery visual bar graph pitch ulator Number which have high speed A/D: 2 EEG:
Oakwood Village, OH computer moving line music Maximum sample rate per channel: 120 minimal
44146 monitor digital games midi Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 8 skin prep
440-232-6000 vibration user written synthesizer with gel
sales@brainm.com programs
animations
Biofeedback Systems AC power line audio raw EMG pulsed tone EEG, EMG no no Number of channels of input: 5 yes no yes EMG: skin
Incorporated power from visual other raw data pitch Number which have high speed A/D: prep pads
CAPSCAN/BFS Inc. Consortium computer computer bar graph music Maximum sample rate per channel: 400 EEG:
2736 47th Street monitor moving line Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 12 skin prep
Boulder, CO, 80301 digital games pads
303-444-1411
Neurocybernics, Inc. battery audio bar graph pulsed tone EEG no no Number of channels of input: 8 no no no EMG:
818-379-7050 AC power line computer moving lines pitch Number which have high speed A/D: 2, EEG:
ggoldstein@ monitor games music slow 6 paste
neurocybernetics.com vibration Maximum sample rate per channel: 256
hz
Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 12
Neuropathways EEG Imaging battery audio other raw data pulsed tone EEG no no Number of channels of input: yes no no EMG:
Suite 209 AC power line visual bar graph raw visual EEG Bipolar hookup EEG:
Beverly Hills CA 90210 computer moving line Number which have high speed A/D: 1 10-20
310-276-9181 monitor all digital real Maximum sample rate per channel: paste
margaret@neuropathways.com time EEG feed- 500,000
back Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 32
Thought Technology Limited battery audio other raw data pitch TEMP, GSR no no Number of channels of input: 6 no no yes EMG: n/a
(ProComp/Cardiopro 2.0) visual bar graph MIDI tones RESP, HR, Number which have high speed A/D: 2 EEG:
2180 Belgrave Ave. computer moving line ECG Slow: 4 n/a
Montreal, CANADA H48 2L8 monitor digital Maximum sample rate per channel: 256
514-489-8251 Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 14
mail@thoughttechnology.com
Thought Technology Limited battery audio raw EMG MIDI EMG no Number of channels of input: 8 no yes yes EMG: not
(ProComp/Biograph) visual grow boxes pulsed tones EEG Number which have high speed A/D: 2 for
2180 Belgrave Ave. computer other raw data pitch TEMP Slow: 6 biofeed-
Montreal, CANADA H48 2L8 monitor bar graph music GSR Maximum sample rate per channel: 256 back
514-489-8251 computations CD RESP Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 14 EEG:
mail@thoughttechnology.com moving line BVR nuprep
games HR and 1020
digital ECG paste
counters
animation
Thought Technology Limited battery audio rbar graph pulsed tones EMG no no Number of channels of input: 2 no no yes EMG: n/a
(Myotrac 3) visual moving line Number which have high speed A/D: EEG:
2180 Belgrave Ave. computer Slow: 2 n/a
Montreal, CANADA H48 2L8 monitor Maximum sample rate per channel: 250
514-489-8251 Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 14
mail@thoughttechnology.com
J&J Engineering (I330C8) power from audio raw EMG pulsed tone EEG ECG yes yes Number of channels of input: 6 yes yes no EMG:
22797 Holgar Court NE computer computer other raw data pitch EMG General Number which have high speed A/D: 8 basic
Poulsbo, Washington 98370 monitor bar graph music TEMP switched Slow: 16 EEG:
360-779-3853 vibration moving line WAV file GSR output Maximum sample rate per channel: basic
JJEngineering.com games RESP 2048
digital BVR Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 16
templates HR
Ambulatory Monitoring, Inc. battery audio bar graph pulsed tone activity no yes external Number of channels of input: 1 yes yes yes EMG:
914-693-9240 AC power line visual digital pitch intensity alarms and Number which have high speed A/D: EEG:
info@ambulatory-monitoring.com power from vibration LEDS stimulator Maximum sample rate per channel:
computer Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 16
Lexicor Medical Technology external power audio other raw data pitch EEG no yes JJ1330 Number of channels of input: 23 yes yes no EMG:
2840 Wilderness Place supply visual bar graph EMG Number which have high speed A/D: 23 standard
Suite A moving line HR Maximum sample rate per channel: 512 EEG:
Boulder, Colorado 80301 games Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 12 standard
303-443-9944 digital
Lexicor@Lexicor.net tomographs,
compressed
spectral array
Laborie Medical Technologies AC power line computer moving line EMG pressure no yes can control Number of channels of input: 3 yes yes yes EMG:
800-878-1110 monitor digital built in internal Number which have high speed A/D: shaving or
UDS@laborie.com stimulator slow: 3 conduc-
Maximum sample rate per channel: 200 tive gel
Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 10 EEG:
adhesive
patch
electrodes
wires Loose none 1 2 weeks or during diskette Windows not not 16 years no clinicians
sensors: yes and held less warrantee: CD
Impedance: devices good
yes after
Battery: yes warrantee:
Other: good
wires loose sensors: any windows “1, 2 year 2 days during diskette Windows optical isolated raw EEG yes 5 years yes “EEG, biofeed- “manufacturer,
no with external available” warrantee: CD Apple MAC RS-232 statistical back/ distributers,
Impedence: no com port 3 months free “phone, email internet with virtual PC summaries relaxation” affiliates”
Battery: no unlimited” protocol
Other: Raw after warran-
EEG visible for tee: “phone,
signal integrity email, limited”
check
wires loose sensors: 486 or 1 2 days during diskette 5 channel = 5 channel = raw and yes 5 years yes biofeedback CAPSCAN
yes Pentium at 90 warrantee: yes DOS 6.0 A/O card average Corp., BFS
Impedence: MHZ after warran- 1 channel = 1 channel = Incorporated,
yes 16 MEG RAM tee: yes Windows 95 RS 232 port ETI
Battery: yes VGA or SVGA and up
Other:
fiber optic loose sensors: 2 computers years: 1 48 hours during warran- diskette serial port raw summary no 11 years yes relaxation Neuro
no Sound blaster tee: 8 - 5 PST CD cybernetics,
Impedence: no Sound card Mon. - Fri Incorporated
Battery: yes ATI video card after warran-
Other: tee: 8 - 5 PST
Mon. - Fri
wires loose sensors: All come years: 3 2 days during CD built from All in one raw yes 5 years no Neuro-
yes together as a warrantee: 3 scratch package pathways EEG
Impedence: single package years free Imaging
yes engineering
Battery: and teaching
Other: after
warrantee:
wires loose sensors: years: 1 2 weeks during diskette Windows ProSB inter- raw statistics yes 2 years yes class 2 Thought
yes warrantee: CD face Technology
Impedence: no 9 - 5 EST Factory F.O. cable and various
Battery: yes after warran- reconfiguration dealers
Other: EKG tee: 9-5 EST internet worldwide
signal quality protocol
wires loose sensors: years: 1 2 weeks during diskette Windows ProSB raw data yes 6 years yes class 2 Thought
sensor to yes warrantee: CD interface statistics Technology
device = wires Impedence: no 9 - 5 EST Factory F.O. cable and
device to Battery: yes after reconfiguration worldwide
computer F.O. Other: warrantee: internet distribution
9-5 EST protocol
wires loose sensors: Windows 3.1 years: 1 2 weeks during diskette Windows F.O. cable RMS yes 2 years yes class 2 Thought
no 98 warrantee: CD Technology
Impedence: no 9 - 5 EST Factory and
Battery: yes after reconfiguration worldwide
Other: warrantee: internet distribution
9-5 EST protocol
wires loose sensors: PC 266 MHZ years: 1 1 week during Windows USB port raw and any yes Dec. 01 yes biofeedback
yes or faster warrantee: average for relaxation
Impedence: yes and re-educa-
yes after tion of muscles
Battery: yes warrantee:
Other: yes
wires loose sensors: minimal PC years: 2 3 weeks during warran- diskette IBM PC, serial raw yes 21 years no Ambulatory
telemetry system tee: phone, fax CD Windows connection or Monitoring
Impedence: email internet modem
Battery: yes after warran- protocol
Other: tee: phone, fax
email
wires loose sensors: minimum 486 years: 1 3 weeks during diskette DOS Windows accessory raw yes 12 years yes electro- Lexicor
no DX warrantee: yes CD DSP card cephalography,
Impedence: after factory spectral
yes warrantee: yes reconfiguration frequency
Battery: no analysis
Other:
wires loose sensors: Pentium based years: 1 1 week during CD Windows 98, Serial RS-232 patients no 1 year yes Urostym Laborie
no PC 133 Mhz, warrantee: yes ME ca ble demographics biofeedback/ Medical
Impedence: 32MB RAM after average data Stimulation Technologies
yes warrantee: yes protocol system for tx of
Battery: n/a settings urinary inconti-
Other: nence used by
urologist/uro-
gynecologist
AM Biotech Information Plug in audio EMG, TEMP 8 channells simultaneously and 16 yes yes standard
Unicomp 1330 vibration GSR, HR alternatively prepara-
visual RESP tion
custom UI
computer BVP
monitor systolic/
diastolic
pressure
AM Biotech Information Plug in audio EMG, EEG 5 channells (four channel sychrony plus yes yes Prep pads
CAPSCAN Prism 5 vibration a single amplitude 80 built in)
visual
custom
computer
monitor
AM Biotech Information Plug in audio EMG, EEG 5 channells (1 amp four bandwidths yes yes Prep pads
CAPSCAN C80 vibration simultaneously)
visual
custom
computer
monitor
Survey of Instrumentation and Software for Biofeedback/Applied Psychophysiology Section 1: Biofeedback Devices B. Ambulatory / Home Trainers
Name of manufacturer Date Power Source: Types of Visual display Audio output: Parameters Are there Number of channels of input: Flexibility Scanning Can this Skin
data Biofeedback output: recorded: isolated inputs of channel option: device prepara-
updat- provided: for external settings: use only tion
ed: equipment? the sen- require-
sors pro- ments for
vided by
the manu-
facturer?
Comptronic Devices Ltd. battery audio bar graph CD EEG no Number of channels of input: no EMG
Mind Alive AC power line visual pitch GSR Number which have high speed A/D: EEG:
9008-51st Avenue pulsed tone AVE Maximum sample rate per channel: abrade
Edmonton, Alberts, Canada Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits):
T6E 5X4
1-800-661-6483
info@comptronic.com
Brainmaster Technologies, Inc.” rechargable audio other raw data pulsed tone EEG no Number of channels of input: 2 yes yes no EMG:
24490 Broadway Ave. #2 battery visual bar graph pitch Number which have high speed A/D: 2 EEG:
Oakwood Village, OH computer moving line music Maximum sample rate per channel: 120 minimal
44146 monitor digital midi Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 8 skin prep
440-232-6000 vibration games synthesizer with gel
sales@brainm.com
Biofeedback Systems Incorporated battery audio digital analog pulsed tone EMG no Number of channels of input: 1 no yes yes EMG: skin
CAPSCAN/BFS Inc. Consortium visual meter TEMP Number which have high speed A/D: prep pads
2736 47th Street GSR Maximum sample rate per channel: EEG:
Boulder, CO, 80301 Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits):
303-444-1411
Neurocybernics, Inc. battery audio bar graph pulsed tone EEG no Number of channels of input: 2 no no no EMG:
818-379-7050 AC power line computer moving lines pitch Number which have high speed A/D: 2, EEG:
ggoldstein@ monitor games music slow 6 paste
neurocybernetics.com Maximum sample rate per channel: 256
hz
Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 12
Peak Achievement Training battery audio other raw data pitch EEG no Number of channels of input: 1 no no no EMG:
Single Channel Peak power from computer bar graph music Number which have high speed A/D: EEG:
Achievement Trainer computer monitor moving line slow 1 sensor
1103 Hollendale digital Maximum sample rate per channel: 128 bands,
Goshen, Kentucky 40026 templates hz sensor
fast fourier Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 8 phones
transforms,
spectrograms
Peak Achievement Training battery audio other raw data pitch EEG no Number of channels of input: 3 yes no no EMG:
Two Channel Peak power from computer bar graph music EMG Number which have high speed A/D: cleaning
Achievement Trainer computer monitor moving line GSR slow 3 with prep
1103 Hollendale digital HR Maximum sample rate per channel: 128 EEG:
Goshen, Kentucky 40026 templates hz sensor
fast fourier Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 8 bands,
transforms, sensor
spectrograms phones
HeartMath Freeze-Framer power from computer bar graph none HR no Number of channels of input: 1 no no yes EMG: n/a
14700 West Park Avenue computer monitor moving line HRV Number which have high speed A/D: EEG:
Boulder Creek, CA 95006 games slow 1 n/a
Maximum sample rate per channel: n/a
Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): n/a
Thought Technology Limited battery audio rbar graph pulsed tone EMG no Number of channels of input: 1 no no yes EMG: pre-
(U Control) visual moving line Number which have high speed A/D: gelled
2180 Belgrave Ave. computer digital Slow: ` electrodes
Montreal, CANADA H48 2L8 monitor RMS Maximum sample rate per channel: EEG:
514-489-8251 EMG 20s/sec n/a
mail@thoughttechnology.com Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 14
Method of Built in quality Computer Warranty peri- Usual turn “Availability of Are Which comput- How is the What kind of Can the data How long has Does the “If yes, what is Suppliers of
transmitting checks for: Requirements: od (years): around time technical (soft- firmware/soft- er operating biofeedback data can be be accessed this device device have it labeled for?” this unit:
the signal from for repairs: ware advice, ware updates systems are device inter- stored in the by standard been on the FDA approval?
the sensors to hardware accomplished supported by faced with the computer? programs? market?
the device: advice) sup- via: the system? computer?
port: “
wires Loose none 1 2 weeks or during diskette Windows AVE ot 16 years no clinicians
sensors: yes less warrantee: CD biofeedback
Impedance: good camera
yes after
Battery: yes warrantee:
Other: good
wires loose sensors: any windows “1, 2 year con- 2 days during diskette Windows optical isolated raw EEG yes 5 years yes “EEG, biofeed- “manufacturer,
no with external tracts avail- warrantee: CD Apple MAC RS-232 statistical back/ distributers,
Impedence: no com port able” “phone, email internet with virtual PC summaries relaxation” affiliates”
Battery: no 3 months free unlimited” protocol
Other: Raw after warran-
EEG visible for tee: “phone,
signal integrity email, limited”
check
wires loose sensors: n/a 1 2 days during n/a n/a serial port none no 10 years yes biofeedback BFS
no warrantee: yes Incorporated,
Impedence: no after ETI
Battery: yes warrantee: yes
Other:
fiber optic loose sensors: 2 computers years: 1 48 hours during warran- diskette serial port raw summary no 3 years yes relaxation
no Sound blaster tee: 8 - 5 PST CD
Impedence: no Sound card Mon. - Fri
Battery: yes ATI video card after warran-
Other: tee: 8 - 5 PST
Mon. - Fri
wires loose sensors: 486 DX with 4 years: 1 2 weeks during warran- diskette Windows serial port raw yes 4 years no Peak
no M RAM tee: free Acheivement
Impedence: no any Pentium after warran- Training
Battery: yes tee: free
Other:
wires loose sensors: 486 DX with 4 years: 1 2 weeks during warran- diskette Windows serial port raw yes 4 years no Peak
no M RAM tee: free Acheivement
Impedence: no any Pentium after warran- Training
Battery: yes tee: free
Other:
wires loose sensors: 90 MHZ 90 days 1 week during warran- CD Windows serial port HRV yes 2 years no Hearthmath
yes Pentium, CD-R tee: yes Internet proto- LLC., Stens
Impedence: OM, 32 MB after warran- col Corp.
n/a RAM, 800x600 tee: yes American
Battery: n/a screen resolu- Biotech, EEG
Other: tion, serial port Spectrum,
Phazx
wires loose sensors: n/a years: 1 2 weeks during Factory n/a n/a n/a no 2 years yes class 2 Thought
no warrantee: reconfiguration Technology
Impedence: no 9 - 5 EST internet and
Battery: no after protocol various deal-
Other: warrantee: ers worldwide
9-5 EST
continued on page 32
Morphing Beyond
Recognition: The Future of
Biofeedback Technologies
Olafur S. Palsson , PsyD, Olafur S. Palsson , PsyD Alan T. Pope, PhD
Abstract: This article identifies two trends BioGraph has opened the door of possibili- (HRV) from an electrocardiography (EKG)
in the development of biofeedback instrumen- ties for creative clinicians. Since, for exam- or blood volume pulse (BVP) sensor. The
tation, toward more sophisticated systems for ple, EEG bandpass nomenclature (e.g. system can also monitor other key physio-
professional use, and toward simpler devices Delta, Theta, Alpha and Beta) has been logical functions, such as respiration, tem-
for home use. The author discusses the current replaced with completely customizable perature and skin conductance, for the most
generation of equipment developed by Thought bandpass settings, the Biograph has enabled complete view on your client's physiology.
Technology, and highlights breakthroughs in clinicians to create feedback screens which With a simple graphic user interface and
telemedicine and virtual reality. He reviews can inhibit 3-5 Hz., and enhance 6-8 Hz. comprehensive reporting features,
current standards in quality assurance, and activity, while providing a ping for each 7 CardioPro lets you easily flow through the
suggests criteria for selecting instrumentation Hz crossover, or discordant music when steps of recording, reviewing, and analyzing
systems. Further, he highlights the increasing producing too much Theta. This level of data. CardioPro is powerful enough for
opportunities for worldwide education in sophisticated feedback was impossible with research applications, yet remains flexible
biofeedback, and the emergence of new appli- previous technology. for clinical work.
cations based on today’s hardware and soft- Another useful feature of BioGraph is I believe it is also important to mention
ware systems. that, because it is Windows” based, multiple that our products, most notably
In 1988, Dr. John Basmajian said in a monitors can be used to display feedback ProComp+, are used with numerous 3rd
speech: “Just as surgery and pharmaceuticals information to the client while showing party software and hardware peripherals,
were important to Medicine in the 19th clinically relevant information to the clini- which offer a wide variety of innovations.
and 20th century, Behavioral Medicine will cian. Some of these include: BioResearch’s
take its place in the 21st century, and Clinicians will also appreciate the newest BioIntegrator software, EEG Spectrum's
Biofeedback is an important component of innovation in our EEG sensors as you can NeuroCybernetics software,
Behavioral Medicine” (Basmajian, 1988). now perform an impedance check on all Neurofeed.com’s software, BioComp’s HEG
This was a defining moment for me, filling three extender leads simultaneously. The and sEMG+ by Clinical Resources.
me with unbridled optimism. sensor, called EEG-Z, which includes the E-
Z connect software, performs five imped-
Telemedicine
Current Directions in ance checks in 10 seconds, then Some of the more advanced applications
Biofeedback Technology automatically switches to a regular EEG in biofeedback monitoring include the area
There appear to be two trends in the reading mode. This obviates the need to of telemedicine. One of the first to apply
field: One is towards more sophisticated disconnect and reconnect each of the three remote biofeedback monitoring was Dr.
and expensive systems for professionals and leads. Ray Folen of Tripler army base. He used a
the other is towards simpler, cheaper devices We have also introduced our new Pro-SB ProComp+/BioGraph in Hawaii to treat
for home use. Dual Interface device; you are now able to military personnel in the Orient, by using 2
In the professional area, there is Thought use one ProComp+ and run the BioGraph telephone lines and specialized software and
Technology’s best selling ProComp+/ and CardioPro software programs, simulta- hardware which allowed him to control the
BioGraph™ system which includes such neously. This gives you the ability to get client’s PC running BioGraph and to pro-
features as automated work/rest periods, real-time EEG and HRV data in one vide visual and auditory feedback. With the
Boolean functions, a wide variety of tones recording session. advent of the Internet combined with some
and visual displays, and easily programma- For those unfamiliar with CardioPro™, clever Java programming, clients no longer
ble protocols. This system was designed by it is a specialized physiological monitoring have to leave their homes to visit their clini-
a team of clinicians and software and hard- and biofeedback application for the cardio- cian; all they have to do is connect their
ware engineers to ensure that the system vascular and respiratory systems. It can per- electrodes, turn on their PC and connect to
would be responsive to actual clinical needs. form real-time feedback on respiratory sinus a web site. For example, Dr. Howard Glazer
Because of its easy programmability, arrhythmia (RSA) and heart rate variability uses our MyoTrac 3 and Televital’s Internet
service, to assess and treat his patients with
Abstract: Telemedicine is a technological care. Geographical isolation doesn’t have to monitor and record over 30 physiological
innovation that allows for direct, real-time be an insurmountable obstacle to receiving signs of health.
interaction between healthcare providers and the basic needs of timely and quality med- Telepresence surgery permits experts to
their patients. Real-time physiological moni- ical care. The ultimate goal of telemedicine effectively guide the surgeons who are actu-
toring over the Internet offers a unique solu- is to provide the best of available health care ally performing the operation in a remote
tion for overcoming the barriers of distance to anyone, anytime, anywhere. This tech- location. Telerobotics takes this a step fur-
and time, while improving continuity of nology can create an effective “virtual” glob- ther by allowing surgeons to remotely oper-
healthcare. al health village that makes optimal health ate on patients using strategically placed
In the rapidly changing world of health- care for all a real possibility. video cameras and telerobotic arms that
care and information technology, telemedi- The growth in telemedicine applications mimic every subtlety of movement made by
cine plays a vital role in building a bridge has given rise to the development of a host the surgeon at the geographic location,
between healthcare providers and patients. of new technologies that can greatly which is accurately reflected by the robotic
It involves the use of telecommunication improve healthcare. Technologies range arms at the patient’s end.
tools such as phones, video cameras, digital from continuous blood pressure devices, Current technology supports the real-
imagery, computers, and the Internet to up-to-date Internet relay of cardiac data time streaming and remote viewing of raw
allow for direct, real-time interaction from a patient’s home to the physicians’ and interpreted vital sign data over the
between healthcare providers and their offices, medical data that can be stored-and- Internet. Physiological signals are typically
patients. forwarded when real-time information is transmitted over a 56K dial-up modem
Telemedicine offers a high-tech solution not required, and elaborate T-shirts woven with less than a second delay.
to the universal problem of access to health with built-in sensors that continuously
A female patient with bilateral frontal/temporal surface EMG placements The computer shows the same patient’s current surface EMG and an inset
interacts through the Internet with a therapist 1,000 miles away. box shows the therapist.
“Try to develop models which are not arbi- unseen possibilities of the future. tional flexibility by combining Windows
trary and man-made but organic and natu- Although estimated biofeedback billings and DOS, but that will not do much
ral. The difference is in the intention. range in the hundreds of millions of dollars, longer. Manufacturers are fighting the
Arbitrary man-made models have as their manufacturing is one of the smallest niche ‘Windows Wars’ as Microsoft keeps chang-
intention manipulation and control.
industries in Healthcare. The future of ing the rules forcing purchase of its new
Natural, organic models have as their inten-
biofeedback depends on where the culture products. We’re looking into Open Source
tion resonance and reverence.”
– Margaret Mead is headed. I love George Carlin’s humor, but but costs are daunting. Programmers must
Abstract: Biofeedback is a technology of the entire culture is not ‘circling the drain.’ develop more intuitive software and
self-knowledge and as such will become ubiq- Segments of the status quo are ‘circling the improve flexibility so that practitioners can
uitous both in healthcare and performance drain’ - probably a good thing. That makes easily tailor reports to payors, referrals,
enhancement applications. ‘Consciousness me an optimistic apocolyptist. client learning etc. Clinicians and
Processing’ technology and services will become I do not think the terms biofeedback or researchers must be freed creatively. We
one of the most robust industries on earth with applied psychophysiology adequately know how to improve software systems
both commercial and non-profit manifesta- describe this technology. There are ‘para- considerably. However we, like others, stalk
tions. As quantum physics unfolds technologies digm shifts’ under way in many sciences investment while stretching capital.
of self-knowledge will become even more and we are a scientific melting pot. I prefer Equipment developers will continue influ-
important. to think of biofeedback as a Technology of encing research by providing better tools.
Self-knowledge. If that is true, then biofeed- Four amplifier Neurofeedback/QEEGs
Introduction back has a huge and complex future. will emerge just as four channel EP systems
Shall I seize this opportunity to promote The unfolding of that future depends on became common in neurology. A significant
our business or say what I feel and risk driv- investment. Investment depends on the advance is the integration of normative
ing potential clients into the arms of the importance our culture places on self-regu- data-bases into the software so that clini-
competition (most of whom are my lation and the nurturing of consciousness. cians will have a better understanding of
friends)? So, my friends, open your arms Improving consciousness is destined to when signals are abnormal.
because here comes my spin on our future. become a huge ‘industry’ with powerful
organizations taking both commercial and
Artfulness Will Attract
Near Term nonprofit forms. Elmer Green’s Mind Body Funding
Biofeedback Equipment Survivors are Both clinical and emerging life/perform-
Principle implies that enhancing conscious-
developing telemedicine, virtual reality ance enhancement technology are already
ness improves health and vice versa. But
(VR), increasing capabilities, decreasing size ahead of the current state of the art. Early
how long will it take biofeedback to attract
and cost, etc. Internet applications will movie technology provides an example. It
adequate capital to make it a mature indus-
grow in terms of training and diagnostics. took years before artists, writers, directors,
try?
VR Feedback will deliver some of the most even actors emerged who knew how to use
effective self-regulation learning systems Long Term Changes movie technology in a way which delivered
ever developed. Flight simulators and VR ‘The gift of prophesy is but the flowery trap-
compelling stories. Several computerized
training of special forces in dangerous com- ping of the Tao and the beginning of folly.’
– Lao Tzu
biofeedback systems have unexploited capa-
bat skills illustrate this concept. Computers bilities. We await practitioner/artists to
are necessary in order to maximize clinical Changes are happening on many fronts
more fully employ existing potential. The
effectiveness. However, the market will including clinical equipment, personal
engineers and developers in this field, danc-
grow for portable, battery-operated instru- equipment, sensors, and training.
ing to the beat of daily operations and busi-
ments reminiscent of Walkmans, and Clinical software has come a long way, but
ness, long to contribute more to this
Palmpilots. However, I want to invest my must evolve in order to catch up to the
artistry.
2,000 words discussing the somewhat hardware’s capabilities. We provide excep-
Neuropathways EEG Imaging battery audio all digital real time pulsed tone EEG Number of channels of input: bipolar yes no no EMG
427 North Canon Drive, Suite 209 AC power line visual EEG all digital real time hookup EEG:1020
Beverly Hills, California 90210 computer feedback EEG Number which have high speed A/D: paste
310-276-9181 monitor feedback Maximum sample rate per channel:
margaret@neuropathways.com 500,00 250,000 second
Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 32
Bio-Temp Products, Inc. n/a visual color changes n/a TEMP no Number of channels of input: n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
K. C. Khemka, Ph. D. Number which have high speed A/D: n/a
P. O. Box 90050 n/a
Indianapolois, IN 46290 Maximum sample rate per channel: n/a
317-254-1214 Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): n/a
kckhemka@aol.com
Thought Technology (MyoTrac) battery audio bar graph pulsed tone EMG Number of channels of input: 1 no no yes EMG
2180 Belgrave Ave. visual LED display of Number which have high speed A/D: none for
Montreal, Canada, H4A 2L8 EMG RMS slow: 1 biofeed-
514-489-8251 Maximum sample rate per channel: 20 back
mail@thoughttechnology.com Digital resolution (12, 14, 16, bits): 14 EEG: n/a
Thought Technology Ltd. BiographX animations: screens offers additional default no no n/a Procomp, Biograph, Thought Technology
2180 Belgrave Ave. and protocols screens and protocols Multitrace and various
Montreal, Canada, H4A 2L8 not included in the distributors worldwide
514-489-8251 original system
mail@thoughttechnology.com
Brain Train Captain's Log cognitive training (is supplied by unit) yes results PC Windows 98 and Brain Train
727 Twin Ridge Lane SoundSmart trains basic cognitive higher
Richmond, VA 23235 SmartDriver skills- attention, mem- companion for EEG
800-822-0538 ory, auditory process- biofeedback training
ginger@braintrain.com ing, phonemic
awareness, tracking,
reasoning, visual
scanning
American Biotech Corporation UniComp Windows data storage default yes yes notes all modules
Unicomp 1330 UniComp DOS biofeedback create your own new version under graphics connectable
reports development
statistics
American Biotech Corporation CAPSCAN Windows data storage default yes yes notes
CAPSCAN Prism 5 DOS biofeedback create your own when integrated with graphics
reports UniComp 1330
statistics
Thatcher data base
compatible
American Biotech Corporation CAPSCAN Windows data storage default yes yes notes may be integrated American Biotech
CAPSCAN C80 VEEG3 biofeedback create your own when integrated with graphics with UniComp 1330 Corporation
reports UniComp 1330 which includes all
statistics popular protocols
Thatcher data base
compatible
wires Loose n/a 1 2 days during n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 10 years yes biofeedback BFS Inc., ETI
sensors: no warrantee: yes
Impedance: no after
Battery: yes warrantee:
Other: dummy yes
subjects for
EMG/EDR
temp self
check feature
wires Loose all in one unit 3 years 2 days during diskette Build all from alone unit raw yes 5 years no Neuro-
sensors: yes warrantee: 3 CD scratch pathways
Impedance: years free EEG Imaging
yes engineering Inc.
Battery: and training
Other: after
warrantee
n/a Loose n/a 1 year n/a during n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 25 years Bio-Temp
sensors: n/a warrantee: yes Products, Inc.
Impedance: after
n/a warrantee: yes
Battery: n/a
Other: n/a
wires Loose n/a 1 year 2 weeks during factory n/a n/a n/a no 15 years yes class 2 Thought
sensors: no warrantee: reconfiguration Technology
Impedance: no 9 – 5 EST and worldwide
Battery: no after distribution
Other: warrantee:
9 – 5 EST
The Future of Biofeedback but lacked the technology and artistry to be ‘running true’.. As science becomes more
continued from Page 23 glorious. When the technology is ready the aware of the implications inherent in inte-
artists will appear. gration of disciplines (wholeness) a new
What if the quality of consciousness of appreciation for what has been called spiri-
their long term interests. Entrepreneurs will
the ‘observer’ significantly influences which tual, mystical, or metaphysical is emerging.
combine electromedicine with pharmaceuti-
one of all those potentials within any given “The most beautiful and profound emotion
cals, decreasing costs profitably. we can experience is the sensation of the
moment collapses, and which manifests?
THE BODIES ARE ALIVE WITH Schrodinger believed consciousness is a spe- mystical. It is the power of all true science.”
THE SOUND OF MUSIC.’ cial case, a kind of singularity, regarding the – Einstein
Pop star musicians will hold concerts in wave/particle laws. Biofeedback, the tech- Bohm and other scientists consider the
which they produce music and visual dis- nology of self-knowledge, is dedicated to mystical to be the fountainhead of creativi-
plays by manipulation of their physiology. improvement of consciousness quality. ty. Hawkings said, “The truth about the
We have experimented with simple conver- What if consciousness is assisting in ongo- boundaries of our universe is that there are
sion of physiological signals to musically ing manifestation of the Universe? Walking no boundaries.” If that makes science more
corrected sound. Amazing how like jazz it the talk is not always easy, but what alterna- challenging, wonderful, then, to paraphrase
sounds. We speculate that jazz derives much tive exists? Betty Davis, “Science ain’t for sissies.”
of its power from intuitive sensing of psy- “Given sufficient development of advanced
chophysiology and integrating same with Integration of Disciplines technology it is indistinguishable from
The ancient Greeks considered psycholo- magic.”
emotions and thematic material (We sold
gy the greatest of all sciences because it – Arthur C. Clarke
an early neurofeedback device to Stan
Getz). This has been done in crude form dealt with the health of the mind. Healthy
minds are required to keep other sciences
It has barely been a month since our meeting in Las Vegas. And meetings when many of the younger members were resting on the
yet time has flown. We are already well into the planning for the sidelines.
2003 meeting in Jacksonville , FL, March 27-30. Chair, Rich I met the Carmagnani’s almost 25 years ago when they came to
Sherman, has a stellar list of speakers lined up. Make your plans the US on a trip and phoned the BSA (Biofeedback Society, our
now to be there. The Call for Papers will be posted on the AAPB former name). We were still housed at the University of Colorado
web site within the next few weeks. Watch for it. Medical School and I happened to be in the office on a Saturday
On one of our evenings at the meeting we would like to have an morning. A gentle lady—she and I remained friends over the years.
“AAPB Cabaret” –an event totally dependent on talented AAPB She was a great force in helping to develop the AAPB International
members. So if you sing, dance, play an instrument or have another section.
talent to share, please let us hear from you. This month we launch the availability of the on-line version of
Along with the elation we celebrated upon the conclusion of a our journal Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback. You can gain
successful meeting, we also experienced sadness when we learned of access via the AAPB web site. (Just click on the link at
the deaths of two of our revered members. Both Neal Miller and www.aapb.org). Remember as an AAPB member you also have on-
Eugenia Carmagnani passed away in March. Neal Miller was an line access to the Journal of Behavioral Medicine. Also check out
elegant researcher who paved the way for so much of the funda- presentations at the AAPB annual meeting by clicking on the
mental work in Biofeedback. And left us a legacy—Be bold in what Digiscript Virtual Library icon. Be sure to use all of these AAPB
you try and cautious in what you claim. He was a wonderful and benefits.
charming human being—it was he on the dance floor at the AAPB
AAPB Year in Review LaVaque and I have also agreed to oversee a our officers, our Board members, our com-
continued from Page 1A new set of White Papers on Biofeedback and mittee members, and other volunteers, as
Neurofeedback Applications.. D. Cordydon well as the AAPB staff who have worked so
Empirically Supported Treatments. Ted Hammond will assist on the neurofeedback hard this year on all of the routine tasks
LaVaque and D. Corydon Hammond head- applications. The White Papers will utilize that need to be done year after year, as well
ed this task force, and produced a final the new efficacy ratings developed by our as on so many special projects. Thank you!
report approved by both organizations’ Task Force on Methodology.
Boards. The Report establishes a continuum While we continue our efforts to expand
of efficacy ratings, each with very clear cri- the world of biofeedback, and increase our We Encourage Submissions
teria. The Report will be published in our impact on health care, AAPB itself has suf- Send chapter meeting announcements,
journal and SNR’s journal. fered the same problems as many other section and division meeting reports, and
This has also been a year for new publi- associations in our country who are seeing a any non-commercial information regard-
cation projects. We have added a monthly decreasing membership and lower income. ing meetings, presentations or publica-
electronic update to our members, keeping AAPB experienced a financial loss in 2001, tions which may be of interest to AAPB
them posted on AAPB activities and rele- which the Board is dealing with. We have members. Articles should generally not
vant breaking news. AAPB has adopted a cut expenses in many areas, and are focus- exceed 750 words. Remember to send
new logo and developed a new membership ing efforts on increasing income. We ask information on dated events well in
brochure. In addition AAPB has contracted your help in the way that can be most bene- advance (we may be able to publicize
for several new publications: Carolyn ficial – urge a colleague to join AAPB. Our your event more than once if you get
Yucha and Christopher Gilbert will produce strength is in our numbers, and a bigger your calendar to us early enough).
a new Clinical Efficacy booklet. Sebastian stronger organization can more effectively Send Word (.doc) or text files by e-mail
Striefel will author both a new book on advance our mission. to the News and Events Editor: Ted
Standards and Guidelines for Clinical There was much more activity that I can- LaVaque, PhD tlavaque@gbonline.com
Practice, and a new Ethics book. Ted not cover here. However, I want to thank by March 15 for the Summer Issue.
The good feelings of our last AAPB meet- this bandwagon, let me know! This activity records, from
ing are starting to fade into fond memories, will in no way detract from AAPB’s interest patients who are
and we are beginning to plan our next activ- in supporting and encouraging the practice not specifically
ities. Among the many things we are hoping specifically of biofeedback. However many enrolled in a research project. We all know
to emphasize in AAPB are: of these other techniques differ from that our field sorely needs more good
More involvement of students and new pro- biofeedback more in details of procedure research, and that much if it will come from
fessionals, and activities that may be of partic- than in over-all goals and methods. We can ongoing clinical work, because funds for
ular help to them. To this end, we have and should learn from each other and sup- large-scale controlled studies are often hard
started a “bank” of job and educational port each other’s work. to come by, particularly without the kind of
opportunities, which hopefully will grow to As many of you know, my personal industry support that characterizes pharma-
a full-fledged “job market”. Anyone with a involvement in biofeedback is as a researcher ceutical research, and generally allows gener-
job to offer, an educational program in as well as a clinician. The remainder of this ous payments to study participants and
applied psychophysiology, or a seeker of column will be devoted to some research clinicians alike. This is exactly the type of
such opportunities —- think of coming to issues that should, directly or indirectly, research that may be stifled by unwise addi-
our next meeting, and making yourself affect most of us. tional research regulation.
known to us! A common topic of discussion among Hopefully, some of my concern may even-
More involvement of regional, specializa- AAPB members has been the need to bring tually be found unwarranted. Everyone
tion, and international groups. We would like research findings to various third party pay- agrees that protection of the safety, dignity,
regional, special interest and international ers and government regulators, to help legit- and rights of participants should be the
groups (and their members) to have a imize our field. This, of course, brings us paramount consideration for all researchers
greater presence within AAPB. To advance face to face with the sad problem that pub- (as well as everyone else involved in the
our science, practice, and training, as well as lished research in our field lags quite far research enterprise); and the exact provisions
the general legitimacy of our field, we need behind clinical innovation. Part of what of the bill are not yet public. However I sug-
to have greater “presence” —- this means AAPB’s mission therefore should be to facili- gest that all interested AAPB members keep
more unity in the field, and more involve- tate both production and dissemination of their eye on the Congressional Register.
ment of all for the common good. In recent good research in applied psychophysiology. Consider this: Sometimes the process of
years there has been a tendency to a bit of Some current events may present both some obtaining informed consent can itself be
entropy in our field. This is a time to work hindrances and opportunities regarding this problematic, and may be harmful. In my
together. I personally would like to reach endeavor. own work, I remember the plight of a very
out to specialty groups and regional groups I have just returned from a meeting of the interested but minimally literate patient at
whose interests overlap with those of AAPB, Federation of Behavioral, Psychological, and an inner-city asthma clinic. She could have
to explore ways that we can join hands and Cognitive Sciences (of which AAPB is a benefited from the free biofeedback treat-
work more effectively together. I will write member organization), devoted to regulation ment and medical care we were offering, but
in more detail about these possibilities in of human research. One theme of the meet- was daunted by the 7-page informed con-
future columns. ing was a bill that soon will be introduced to sent form required by our local Institutional
Support innovation. The theme of our Congress that would place new regulations Review Board (supposedly written on an
next meeting will be “Beyond the on all human research. If enacted, the bill eighth grade level, but, after doctoring by
Boundaries of Biofeedback”. Although most could increase your difficulty of collecting various legal minds, made somewhat more
AAPB members are involved specifically in data from your own and your colleagues’ complicated). For several weeks in a row she
biofeedback, there is tremendous national clinical practices, unless your protocol is returned to the clinic and again asked to
interest in other methods of self-regulation. approved by a duly constituted Institutional take home a copy of the informed consent
Indeed our society was one of the first to Review Board (e.g., at a hospital or universi- form, so her daughter could read it and
disseminate good scientific research on vari- ty), and unless each participant specifically explain it to her. I explained the procedure
ous Eastern and Western meditative prac- can sign a written informed consent form. word for word each time, but the fear and
tices. I have encouraged a group of AAPB This may particularly be a problem for magic associated with a written contract
members to organize a special interest group many AAPB clinical researchers who collect were too overwhelming. Eventually her
in this area. If you are interested in joining their observations and data from their own daughter also gave up on the task. She
Coming in 2002! HEG option; Take home disk; Auto threshold adjustment; and more...