σ(α) trait stability across diverse cognitive and pharmacological contexts: a single-operator longitudinal observation from consumer EEG
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) May 14, 2026 Christopher Swenson
In a 19-day single-operator longitudinal observation, a candidate EEG trait signature called σ(α) — the rolling standard deviation of channel-averaged smoothed alpha — remained within a narrow 0.125–0.184 band across 21 sessions covering deep rest, exercise, gaming, cannabinoid and prescription stimulant states. The stimulant session produced an attenuated EEG signature (α/β = 1.38, σ(α) = 0.132) consistent with the operator's poor-metabolizer pharmacogenetic profile. Applying Stanford ibogaine-pipeline metrics showed partial convergence at calm-rest baseline but divergence in resting theta/beta ratio. σ(α) was statistically independent of peak alpha frequency and Lempel-Ziv complexity, suggesting it indexes a distinct facet of cortical organization. These n=1 observations on consumer hardware are consistent with, but do not prove, a regulation-stability trait signature.