A Spiking Neural Network Methodology and System for Learning and Comparative Analysis of EEG Data from Healthy versus Addiction Treated versus Addiction Not Treated Subjects

This paper introduces a method utilizing spiking neural networks (SNN) for learning, classification, and comparative analysis of brain data. As a case study, the method was applied to electroencephalography (EEG) data collected during a GO/NOGO cognitive task performed by untreated opiate addicts, those undergoing methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) for opiate dependence
and a healthy control group. Methods: the method is based on an SNN architecture called NeuCube, trained on spatiotemporal EEG data. Objective: NeuCube was used to classify EEG data across subject groups and across GO versus NOGO trials, but also facilitated a deeper comparative analysis of the dynamic brain processes. Results: This analysis results in a better understanding
of human brain functioning across subject groups when performing a cognitive task. In terms of the EEG data classification, a NeuCube model obtained better results (the maximum obtained accuracy: 90.91%) when compared with traditional statistical and artificial intelligence methods (the maximum obtained accuracy: 50.55%). Significance: more importantly, new information about the effects of MMT on cognitive brain functions is revealed through the analysis of the SNN model connectivity and its dynamics. Conclusion: this paper presented a new method for EEG data modelling and revealed new knowledge on brain functions associated with mental activity which is different from the brain activity
observed in a resting state of the same subjects.