A Simple Model for the Production of the Normal Electroencephalogram

摘要

A simple electromechanical theory for the production of the normal electroencephalogram is outlined. The theory requires three sets of conditions in the brain: (1) an electrically-charged state, presumed to arise through chemical oxidation-reduction reactions, (2) a gel mass, with a coefficient of elasticity approximated by commercial gelatin, and (3) a periodic mechanical pulse, to set the gel into oscillation at its resonant frequency. It is proposed that the interaction of these conditions in the skull produces the oscillating potentials recorded from normal human subjects by standard electroencephalographic equipment. It is further proposed that blocking of the alpha rhythm may be produced by de-tuning the lobes of the brain through changes in blood supply via cortical vasoconstriction and dilation. Some suggestions are made concerning likely sources of mechanical activity which might produce abnormal EEG patterns.