---
title: sLORETA Imaging of Depression Indicators in Real Time
description: "This poster was presented at the International Pharmaco-EEG Group meeting in New York: ![](https://brainmaster.com/wp-content/themes/brainmasters/kb_upload/ipegposter.JPG) *Disclaimer: This content was generated with the assistance of AI and then reviewed and edited by BrainMaster Technologies, Inc. It is provided for educational and informational…"
url: "https://brainmaster.com/kb-entry/id510/"
updated: "2025-11-05"
category: Research
---

# sLORETA Imaging of Depression Indicators in Real Time

This poster was presented at the International Pharmaco-EEG Group meeting in New York:

![](https://brainmaster.com/wp-content/themes/brainmasters/kb_upload/ipegposter.JPG)

*Disclaimer: This content was generated with the assistance of AI and then reviewed and edited by BrainMaster Technologies, Inc. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.*

# Trait & State-Based Depression Indicators Measured Using Real-Time sLORETA Imaging and Quantification

## Overview

This study by **Bonnstetter, Collura, Bonnstetter, and Hebets** (Target Training International, Ltd. & BrainMaster Technologies, Inc.) demonstrates the use of **real-time sLORETA imaging** to assess **trait- and state-based depression indicators**. Using **BrainAvatar™** software and the **VIDE process (Gamma for Ipsative Validation using EEG)**, researchers quantified emotional asymmetry and neural activation patterns during mood- and emotion-linked responses.

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## Introduction

Advancements in **real-time sLORETA (standardized Low-Resolution Brain Electromagnetic Tomography)** enable dynamic visualization of whole-brain electrical activity associated with emotional and cognitive states.
This study sought to visualize **chronic and transient depression patterns** through brain activation asymmetry—particularly in **prefrontal regions** known to mediate emotional tone, avoidance, and approach behaviors.

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## Methodology

Participants completed a **depression-related online survey**, followed by EEG acquisition using **BrainAvatar™** and **BrainMaster Discovery systems**.
Stimuli included emotionally charged prompts (e.g., “sleep,” “smoking,” “favorite foods”). Brain responses were recorded for 1–5 seconds per image, capturing **dynamic prefrontal gamma asymmetry** linked to emotional processing.

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## Results

Researchers identified **distinct asymmetry patterns in gamma activity** that corresponded with emotionally relevant stimuli.
Key findings include:

- **Left prefrontal gamma dominance** associated with approach and positive emotional tone.
- **Right prefrontal gamma dominance** correlated with avoidance or negative mood.
- Each subject displayed a unique “brain activation signature” reflecting personal emotional traits.

The **VIDE process** validated emotional self-report accuracy by linking **objective EEG markers** to introspective reports.

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## Discussion

Using **BrainAvatar™**, the process quantifies emotional states by integrating **neurophysiological data** with **subjective self-assessments**.
This integration offers a **scientific basis for understanding personal decision-making and emotional reactivity**, providing a potential clinical framework for:

- Assessing **trait vs. state depression**,
- Visualizing **cognitive-emotional dynamics**,
- Enhancing **personalized neurofeedback protocols**.

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## Implications for Clinical Practice

This technology supports **quantitative emotional assessment** for applications in:

- **Clinical evaluation** of affective tone,
- **Cognitive-behavioral training** and **self-regulation**,
- **Neurofeedback personalization** via sLORETA-informed Z-score training.

Incorporating **BrainAvatar™ and sLORETA imaging** can assist clinicians in visualizing and interpreting emotional processing patterns to guide individualized neurotherapy and performance enhancement programs.