Declarative Learning Task with EEG Sleep Recording
Objective: To investigate changes in EEG activity during nocturnal sleep after extensive training on a declarative learning task, specifically measuring sleep spindle density and neural activity changes compared to a nonlearning control task
Gather these items before starting the experiment. Check off items as you prepare.
Equipment1
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Protocol Steps
Declarative Learning Task Training
Subjects performed extensive training on a declarative learning task with visual stimulation and cognitive strain
Note: This is the experimental condition compared against a nonlearning control task of equal visual stimulation and subjectively rated cognitive strain
View evidence from paper
“This study in humans looks at the changes in EEG activity during nocturnal sleep after extensive training on a declarative learning task, as compared with a nonlearning control task of equal visual stimulation and subjectively rated cognitive strain”
Nonlearning Control Task
Subjects performed a control task with equal visual stimulation and subjectively rated cognitive strain but without learning component
Note: Control condition matched for visual stimulation and cognitive demand
View evidence from paper
“as compared with a nonlearning control task of equal visual stimulation and subjectively rated cognitive strain”
Nocturnal Sleep Recording with EEG Monitoring
Subjects underwent nocturnal sleep with continuous EEG monitoring at 28 electrode locations to measure sleep stages, spindle density, and power spectra
Note: Recording conducted after both learning and nonlearning control tasks
View evidence from paper
“This study in humans looks at the changes in EEG activity during nocturnal sleep after extensive training on a declarative learning task”
Measurement of Sleep Parameters
Determine time spent in each sleep stage, spindle density, and EEG power spectra across 28 electrode locations
Note: Spindle density effect was largest during the first 90 minutes of sleep
View evidence from paper
“Time spent in each sleep stage, spindle density, and EEG power spectra for 28 electrode locations were determined. This effect was largest during the first 90 min of sleep”
Recall Performance Assessment
Assess recall performance before and after sleep to correlate with spindle density measurements
Note: Spindle density was correlated to recall performance both before and after sleep
View evidence from paper
“spindle density was correlated to recall performance both before and after sleep ( r = 0.56; p < 0.05)”