Very low frequency EEG oscillations and the resting brain in young adults: a preliminary study of localisation, stability and association with symptoms of inattention.

Background: Spontaneous very low frequency oscillations (VLFO: <0.2 Hz) in functional magnetic-resonance imaging are proposed to identify a default-mode network of resting brain activity. Activity in this network has been related to lapses of attention during goal-directed tasks and may provide a basis for ADHD. This study assessed the relation between scalp-recorded EEG VLFO at rest and ADHD.

Methods: 13 young adults with high- and 11 with low self-ratings of ADHD participated. Direct current EEG was recorded during a five minute rest session and was retested after approximately 1 week.

Results: A consistent and temporally stable pattern of VLFOs was observed across specific scalp regions in low-ADHD participants. High-ADHD participants had less VLFO power across these locations, especially where inattention self-ratings were high. Inattention was not related to VLFO power in other locations.

Discussion: Initial evidence is provided for a pattern of VLFOs at rest which is associated with inattention symptoms.