NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 180

Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

The Extended Brain: Cyclic Information

Flow in a Quantum Physical Realm
Dirk K. F. Meijer
ABSTRACT
The present knowledge of the brain neurology, collectively, is insufficient to explain higher mental processes such as
(self)-consciousness, qualia, intuition, meditative states, transpersonal experiences as well as ultra rapid brain
responses and functional binding between distant parts of the brain. It is proposed that super-causal space-time
configurations may function as an interface between molecular transitions and the particular higher mental functions.
As super-causal principles, the iso-energetic brain model as well as various quantum brain theories are treated. Iso-
energetic states of the brain may enable protein perturbation mediated information processing within a tenth of a
millisecond and make use of subjective space-time configuration created in life as an emergent modality of the neural
system. In addition, elementary quantum processes are seen as essential for higher brain functions, since our central
nervous system forms an integral part of a dynamic universe as a non-local information processing modality. In this
respect, quantum physics also allows the build-up of an individual mental knowledge domain on the basis of self-
selective imprinting of a geometric space/time dimension, as induced by wave/ particle transitions in the brain. The
central hypothesis of the present paper is that a versatile and rapid responding brain function requires
complementary information processing mechanisms both at the iso-energetic and quantum (macro- and micro-)
levels, enabling bottom up and top down information processing. This requires a nested organization of fine-tuned
neural micro-sites that enable coherence/de-coherence transitions as a basis for information transfer. For a rapid and
causally effective flux of information, as well as a continuous updating of a personal information domain, a “bi-cyclic”
mental workspace is conceived, housing interacting and entangled wave and protein-based perturbations that build-
up and retrieve information from a universal knowledge domain.

Key Words: universal information field, super-causal brain mechanisms, iso-energetic brain, quantum brain models,
mind/matter, cyclic mental workspace, complementary processes for ultra rapid brain responses
DOI Number: 10.14704/nq.2014.12.2.754 NeuroQuantology 2014; 2:180-200

Introduction 1 the brain processes inputs and somehow

The reconciliation of mental and physical states combines them with related memories in order
is still considered a central enigma. There is to create an updated level of functioning output
little consensus on the existence of an of the individual. These input/output modalities
independent mental modality of the universe of the brain may or may not become part of the
that can explain the personal flow of thoughts conscious domain. The brain has the capacity to
and, in particular, the experience of self- anticipate on future conditions, partly through
consciousness. It is nevertheless obvious that the continuous consultation of past experiences
along with projection of future events. In other
Corresponding author: D.K.F. Meijer
words, a major feature of consciousness is the
Address: D.K.F. Meijer, Parklaan 17, 9724 AN, Groningen. The interpretation of the present on the basis of
Netherlands both past experiences and expectations about
Phone: + 0031-50-3180593 the future.
e-mail  meij6076@planet.nl
Relevant conflicts of interest/financial disclosures: The authors
This essay questions whether the entire
declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any stream of information reaches the brain
commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a exclusively through the senses by classical
potential conflict of interest.
physical and chemical mechanisms or that
Received: 10 February 2014; Revised: 20 May 2014;
Accepted: 8 June 2014 external and apparently unconscious quantum
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 181
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

mechanical (QM) processes might contribute to brain components such as neuronal assemblies
this mental processing. The present paper and/or molecular communication networks in
examines the importance of both quantum and cells, creating an information processing system
classical molecular states to better understand with novel and largely unpredictable properties
higher cerebral and, by implication, mental (consistent argumentation given by Kauffman,
processes. So far we know, only a few reports 2010). As a consequence: an individual mind,
have attempted to integrate QM theories with seen as a “personal universe”, emerges from
current neurobiological theories (King, 2003; genetically determined brain structures that
Abbott, 2008; Davies and Gregerson, 2010; enable the continuous acquisition of internal
Kauffman, 2008; 2012). and external information (“experiences”). An
attractive neurobiological feature, explaining
Firstly, the key issues and assumptions
ultra rapid brain responses, is the neurological
underlying mind/matter theories, denoted here
state of potential energy and iso-energicity,
as QM mind theories, are summarized, because
meaning the tendency of the central nervous
they are based on quantum physics. The present
system to maintain maximum potential energy
essay is not intended to cover QM theories
with minimal energetic boundaries (reviewed
exhaustively but rather to distill salient features
by Korf and Grambergen, 2007; Korf, 2010;
and sub-theories that have contributed to the
2012). In this model, brain metabolism serves
mind/brain debate. More detailed reviews have
to optimally maintain potential energy and iso-
appeared recently (e.g., Vannini and Di Corpo,
energicity to ensure maximal responsiveness to
2008; Hu and Wu, 2004; 2006; 2008; 2010;
external information (including quanta) in
Tarlaci, 2010; Pereira, 2003; Meijer, 2012;
order to create intelligible signals.
Meijer and Korf, 2013; Tuszynsky and Woolf,
2006; Bruza and Busemeyer, 2012). The scientific feasibility of QM brain/-
mind theories and emergent neurological
A concise and critical overview on
mechanisms are subjected to a short analysis of
quantum consciousness is provided by
either approach. Finally, the potential
Atmanspacher, (2011). He distinguishes
complementary aspects of both the brain iso-
descriptive and explanatory models, in which
energetic and quantum theories of mind is
the term correlation is a relevant descriptive
emphasized, realizing that these models are not
term, while causation is seen as an explanatory
mutually exclusive and combined could even
term related to understanding the causal
provide a more integral model for the mental
mechanisms. Here we examine two stances of
state and for mind/matter interactions.
QM mind theories: the “hard’’ and the
“metaphor” theories. The “hard” QM theories
take QM literally: mind/matter manifestation is Current Quantum Mind Models
an integral part of the quantum-based universe. Since the development of QM and relativistic
Both theories describe mental and, by theories in the first part of the 20th century,
implication, brain physiology in terms of fast attempts have been made to understand and
and random transitions. The “hard” QM describe the mind or mental states on the basis
models, explaining intentional conscious acts as of QM concepts. Quantum physics, currently
the result of physical state reductions and QM seen as a further refinement in the description
field models, refer primarily to physical of nature, does not only describe elementary
phenomena, and introduce the typical features microphysics but clearly applies also to classical
of particle/wave duality, entanglement and or macro-physical (Newtonian) phenomena as
non-locality, wave interference and well (reviewed by Arndt et al., 2009 and Lloyd,
superposition, quantum tunneling, as well as 2011). Hence the human brain and its mental
coherence and resonance of wave interactions aspects are associated to classical brain
(Figure 1). Many metaphor-approaches and physiology and are also part of a quantum
“hard” QM models in fact primarily describe physical universe. Some neurobiologists
correlations with the help of QM models considered QM mind theories irrelevant to
including mathematical treatment. understand brain/mind processes (e.g.,
Edelman and Tononi, 2000; Koch and Hepp,
Secondly, related concepts, stemming
2006), predominantly by opposing the classical
from emergent neurology and its underlying
Copenhagen interpretation of QM, in relation to
assumptions are summarized, i.e. the mind
the theory of Penrose and Hameroff (discussed
emerges through the interaction of physical
below). However, there is no single theory on
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 182
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

QM brain/mind theory. In fact a spectrum of dimension (called implicate order) is necessary

more or less independent models have been to describe QM interference processes, thereby
proposed, that all have their own intrinsic circumventing probabilistic theories and
potential. The elements of quantum physics consciousness-induced collapse of the wave
discussed here are summarized in Figure 1; function. In this theory, the universe is a giant
details of the various QM theories have been superposition of waves, representing an
described elsewhere (Meijer, 2012; Meijer and unbroken wholeness, of which the human brain
Korf, 2013). is an integral part (Bohm, 1990), and
consequently duality is not at stake.
Accordingly, the individual mind and its
consciousness aspect, is an inherent property of
all matter (and energy), and as such being part,
or rather an expression, of this universal
quantum field.
The apparently diffuse time-space
localization of mental functions indeed argues
in favor of an underlying multidimensional
space-time reality. Within this domain, Bohm
and Hiley, 1987, a two-arrow (bidirectional)
time dimension is required as earlier described
by Minkowski. Thus the stochastic (or double
stochastic) character of quanta is explained by
an underlying quantum field: the
Figure 1. Elements of quantum physics: uncertainty of position
abovementioned implicate order. Of interest:
of particles, wave/particle duality as demonstrated in the
double-slit experiment (upper part), as well as entanglement
the steering of particles through the supposed
(non-locality) of particles at great distances, the phenomenon pilot waves that are situated in the implicate
of coherence/decoherence and superposition of waves (lower order, was primarily seen as unidirectional but
part). later Holland, 1996, made clear that a back
reaction of particles to wave forms is in
principle possible.This field concept implies
Some QM mind options assume some sort
entanglement (non-locality with regard to space
of space-time multidimensionality, i.e., there
and time) as well. The mathematics of a
are more than the four conventional space-time
causally symmetric Bohm model, including the
dimensions (Figure 2). Other investigators
existence of backward in time influence, was
assume that one or more extra dimensions are
proposed by Sutherland, 2006.
associated with a mental attribute to matter and
energy (Carter, 2014) or that the individual Another hypothesis, having the potential
mind is (partly) an expression of a universal to couple wave information to mental processes,
mind (Bohm, 1990), for instance through proposes that wave information is transmitted
holographic communication with quantum from and into the brain by wave resonance.
fields. The latter idea has led to various Through conscious observation they collapse
holonomic theories (Pribram, 1986; Pribram locally to material entities (Stapp, 2009; Pessa
and Carlton, 1986; Mitschell et al., 2009; Levin, and Vitiello, 2003; Schwartz et al., 2004).
2011; Germine, 2007). The human brain is then Stapp (2012), argued that this does not
conceived as an interfacing organ that not only represent an interference effect between
produces mind and consciousness but also superposed states (as assumed by Hameroff,
receives information. The brain or parts of the 2007; Hameroff and Penrose, 2007; 2012), but
brain are conceived as an interference that through environmental de-coherence,
hologram of incoming data and already existing superpositions become informative to the
data (a “personal universe”), so that properly brain/organism. A complementary implication
exposed (“analyzed”), information about the of these theories is that mental processes are
outer world can be integrated. In not necessarily embedded in entropic physical
neurobiological terms, the existing data is time. In line with this QM idea is that memories
equivalent to the subject’s memory, whereas the are not stored as a temporal sequence, but
“analyzer” is cerebral electrophysiology. Bohm rather a-temporally (to be discussed later).
and Hiley, 1987 hypothesized that an additional
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 183
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

Some of the QM mind theories suppose occurs in a small region, e.g. single neurons
the possible involvement of specific molecules and/or their local networks, but in spite of this
in brain. A spectrum of ions and molecules has may have spatial long-range effects (Vattay et
been suggested to operate in a quantum manner al., 2012; Hagan et al., 2002). Kauffman, 2012
(Tuszinsky and Woolf, 2010). For instance QM noted unexpected long-lived coherence states in
theories have been based on micro-tubular biological molecules at body temperature,
proteins (Penrose 1989; updated by Hameroff potentially enabling parallel problem solving.
and Penrose, 2012), proteins involved in The question remained which neurons or
synaptic transmission (Beck and Eccles, 1992, neuronal structures are in particular associated
2001; Beck, 2001, 2008a; 2008b), including Ca to the coherence/de-coherence cycles as part of
ion-channels (Stapp, 2009) and channel a versatile brain model of consciousness.
proteins instrumental in the initiation and
Whatever molecules or QM fields are
propagation of action potentials (potassium-ion
involved in mental processing, the basic
channels, Bernroider and Roy, 2004). Annex is
question remains: how are quantum waves or
the hypothesis that synaptic transmission
quantum fields perceived by the human brain?
represents a typical (quantum) probability state
Do the quanta recognize particular proteins or
that becomes critical for an all or none neuronal
ions at particular locations or is the interaction
response (Beck and Eccles, 1992; Beck, 2001).
more or less random? If quantum mechanisms
Attributing non-linear and non-computable
affect brain neuronal processes, preferred
characteristics of consciousness, Hameroff and
conformations of proteins and potential energy
Penrose (2011; 2012) argue against mechanisms
are conditional. For instance: sensitive
of all or none firing of axonal potentials (Beck
detection of external information is possible
and Eccles, 2003). They rather prefer the model
with dedicated cellular structures, as for
of Davia (2010), proposing that consciousness
instance in the retina that amplify the energy of
is related to waves traveling in the brain as a
a single photon by a cascade of processes via
uniting life principle on multiple scales.
changes of protein conformations and potential
According to some QM mind theories energy of the retina, leading to neuronal
(Woolf and Hameroff, 2001), tunneling was activation. Humans can sense less than ten
proposed to facilitate membrane/vesicle fusion photons, whereas insects might even detect a
in neural information processing at the synapse. single photon (Baylor et al., 1979; Menini et al.,
Kauffman relates quantum processes in the 1995). Using biotechnical techniques,
biological matrix of the brain to the emergence photosensitive proteins have been coupled to
of mental processing (Kauffman, 2010; Vattay ion-channel proteins, so that the neural activity
et al., 2012). This theory, mainly based on can be modified or inhibited in vivo by photons
chromophores detecting photons, assumes that introduced through optic microfibers (Lima and
the coherence of some quantum configurations Miesenböck, 2005; Boyden et al., 2005; Tsai et
adhered to proteins is stabilized or is al., 2009). Recently a challenging theory was
maintained by re-coherence (see later). This proposed for an integral role of bio-photons as a
principle may have guided evolutionary rapid communication process in brain and
selection of proteins through sequential quanta other tissues (Bokkon, 2010; Dotta, 2012).
detection (Davies, 2004). Accordingly, mind
How does this all relate to the processes
and consciousness both exhibit quantum
of memory storage and retrieval? Because of the
mechanical aspects, but at the same time, also
continuous accumulation of information, there
they are an expression of operation of the
is perception of a past to future time-arrow in
classical neural mechanisms. The underlying
the mental domain (Primas, 2003). Yet, time
coherent quantum states provide the
perception might be divided into two
potentiality for the collapse to the de-coherent
apparently different aspects. One referring to an
material state, resulting in classical events such
external process in the cosmos (e.g. seasons,
as firing neurons, that are at least to some
clocks) and another to internal subjective
extent, a-causal, i.e., beyond classical
processes (experience, memories, hormonal
determinacy. The supposed quantum sensory
rhythms). In this respect Primas, 2003
system (of the brain) interacts with a complex
distinguished tenseless (causal) and tensed
and dense quantum environment the phase
time, respectively; similar concepts have been
information is de-cohered but is not entirely
advanced earlier by Bergson, 1907. Tensed time
lost. By entanglement, the quantum coherence
belongs to the mental domain and may be
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 184
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

quantum-correlated with physical time via may be facilitated by brain iso-energicity. QM

“time-entanglement” (Primas, 2003; theories consider the universe as a
Atmanspacher, 2011). Such a dual time concept, multidimensional quantum field in a super-
primarily explained as a physical necessity, also positional state and the brain or mind as the
supports the hypothesis of the “personal space-time realization following a state
universe” (next section) in interaction with a reduction. According to the QM metaphor-
cosmic knowledge domain. approach decisions, sensory observations or
behavior create localized process in the brain
derived from an apparently super-positional
brain state.

Rapid information sensing and

processing in the iso-energetic brain
Some mind/brain hypotheses, such as
substance dualism, conceptualize the mind as
emergent or epiphenomenon, do not
accommodate an acting agent capable to affect a
physical brain. Others such as eliminative
materialism, picture the mind as a construction
of folk-psychology (Churchland 1988).
Materialism might be considered as an answer
Figure 2. An integrated scheme depicting the Universe as to the aforementioned brain-mind theories, but
a circular flow of information with its material (right part naïve materialism has forcedly been rejected
of the figure) and mental (left), aspects. The latter does (Nagel, 2012). Kim (2005) a major proponent of
not imply a dualistic approach, rather a complimentary the supervenience theory, states “... that what
and unitary matter/mind modality is assumed. This happens in our mental life is wholly dependent
concept assumes a central quantum information field, on, and determined by, what happens with our
that provides the very basis for creation of our universe bodily processes”. Supervenience implies that
and dynamically evolves further through cyclic feed-back the mind is essentially irreducible to underlying
processes from the present reality, in which natural neurobiological components or processes. The
(among others human) and artificial intelligence play principle of emergent materialism originates in
crucial roles in observation and participation (see also systems biology theory and systems
Meijer, 2012). biochemistry, acknowledging that new
(physical) properties might emerge as a
In summary, some QM proponents consequence of the interaction of its
assume that mind is inherently entangled to constituting components (Von Bertalanffy,
(all) other matter of this universe, including our 1950). However some consider substance
brain (Figure 2). This concept is close to so emergency a debatable concept, since it lacks
called panpsychisme (Edwards, 1967). predictive power, and often only invites
Entanglement of elementary particles might explanations in retrospect. Rather the author
also imply the occurrence of backward prefers John Searle’s use of the term: there
causation. Backward causation is not forbidden exists an emerging configuration of the brain
even in (Newtonian) laws that have no single that is both physical and mental (Vicari, 2009;
orientation in time: they operate in either time Searle, 2007). Closely related to Searle’s
direction. This aspect remains often unspoken, conceptualization is the idea of creative
yet this condition is fully compatible with the a- evolution advanced by Kauffman (2008) and
temporality of mental processes. In the Pross (2013), see also Atmanspacher’s concept
metaphor QM theories, backward causation is of contextual emergence (Atmanspacher, 2007;
evident because of the a-temporal sequence of Atamanspacher and Rotter, 2008).
memories. In classical physics high energy
barriers are difficult or even impossible to cross The iso-energetic brain concept
without extra energy, whereas in QM there is The following section essentially cites the iso-
the probability that barriers are passed by energetic brain model as proposed by Korf et al.
quantum tunneling through low energy (2007; 2010; 2012); “The human brain is an
barriers. In the metaphor theories tunneling extremely complex organ enabling fast
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 185
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

information processing that allows us to react to converging information from parallel neuronal
environmental challenges, as has been circuits that affect the protein conformation in
illustrated by some psycho-physiological target cells (Koch and Hepp, 2006; Korf, 2012).
observations. In fact this processing is too fast Subliminal stimulations of less than 50
to relate them directly to brain energy milliseconds (used in e.g. advertisements, Korf,
metabolism (e.g., functional magnetic 2010) do sub-consciously inform the perceiver
resonance imaging, fMRI) and led to the idea (Figure 3).
that information is stored largely by stabile
A weak or even absent coupling between
neuronal and metabolic configurations, that
function and metabolism is also apparent at the
have a very slowly turn over (Figure 3).
cellular level. For instance, changes of protein
conformations rather than energy metabolism
initiates an action potential. Energy
consumption prepares for future brain activity,
and provides the conditions enabling fast
processing and storing of information but is not
directly instrumental for mental processes.
Mental processing might primarily originate in
more or less stable protein conformations. In
this way information is distributed effectively
over the brain (Korf, 2010; 2012). In the ideal
iso-energetic brain, there are no energy
barriers, so information travels (theoretically)
without using energy, similar to moving along
isobaric lines with no or minimal effort. The
Figure 3. Timing of cerebral and functional processing during concept of iso-energicity thus should be seen as
the first second (1000 milliseconds) following a psycho-
physiological stimulus (an event). The horizontal shaded bar
an ideal state rather than as an actual state of
indicates the iso-energetic barrier, thus separating the the brain. More precisely, the brain has an
functional (i.e., information processing) and the metabolic (i.e., evolutionary programmed capacity to realize
the wet brain) domains. The lower physiological part mentions and maintain different levels of iso-energicity,
some molecular transformations such as protein conformation, i.e., with no or less energy barriers inside and
energy metabolism (lactate, glucose, oxygen), and also between brain cells. The tendency to achieve
hemodynamic response and metabolic demand (as seen in iso-energicity is realized by a maximal potential
oxygen and glucose PET). The upper part shows concomitant
energy. Here potential energy is primarily
functioning, ranging from unconscious perception until
consciousness emerging after 500 milliseconds or so. The iso- defined as neuronal rest potentials (membrane
energetic bar emphasizes the relative uncoupling of the trans-gradients of electrolyte ions) but in a
cerebral and metabolic domain from the functional domain broader context may also refer to
(after Korf, 2010). neurotransmitter stores (also trans-membrane
gradients) or phosphorylated proteins.
Meaningful as opposed to nonsense words Consequently, in such a responsive brain,
are already distinguished within 50 potential energy is maximal and immediately
milliseconds (Turennout et al., 1998) and far available to be used for any activity, including
too fast to be detected by fMRI. Voluntarily information processing. As mentioned above
movements are executed within less than 50 there is ample evidence that the brain may well
milliseconds, whereas the time lag of perform information processing within tenths
unconscious to conscious experience ranges of a millisecond. The realization of iso-
from 300-500 msec. (Libet, 2006). The energicity may have been subject to
underlying assumption of fMRI is that evolutionary selection processes, whereas the
psychological/mental tasks require energy, but mental domain is likely shaped by
the fMRI response following light flashes environmental cues, as for instance personal
appears delayed to the neural firing in the visual experiences, the formation of memory, or the
(De Zwart et al., 2009). Even faster electro- human society with its cultural habits. For
physiological responses (within 0.05 instance, a short period of near isoelectricity
milliseconds) are detected during auditory (i.e., flat EEG) impairs the precipitation and
spotting of the origin of noise. Such fast time recollection of recent experiences, but by far
discrimination is probably achieved by most of the older memory traces remain intact.
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 186
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

In fact, within 100 milliseconds, the recollection

of particular early life experiences will be
initiated. Apparently, conservation of
information does not depend on neuronal
firing, so memory must be confined to a spatial
configuration (morphological modality) instead.
It was proposed that the spatial and
electrophysiological properties together
“produce” a functional space-time
configuration. The particular space-time
structure is modified by incoming information
and could thereafter affect new information. In
other words, the proposed space-time structure
contains at any time all the information
collected by the organism during life. Such a
Figure 4. Cartoon of the emergent model of the brain and
space-time structure is continuously modified
mind-brain relationships. The figure shows the levels of
by ongoing information processing and will organization of the (bio-)iso-energetic brain, largely based on
never become the same during life. the concepts of Searle and Kauffman (see text). The lowest
Consequently, information processing changes levels of complexity range from elementary particles (photons,
the presumed space-time structure irreversibly quanta), via atoms and protein molecules, whereas the higher
(Figure 3 and Figure 4). levels are composed of individual neurons, neuronal networks,
individual or personal brain. According to QM mind theories the
In this respect, the iso-energetic brain (individual) mind is directly connected to the universe via
may be seen as a tacit prerequisite of various molecules or quantum fields, possibly also through the
theories emphasizing the nonlocality of “personal universe”. The spatial-temporal organization is
neuronal activity (e.g., Edelman, 2004; created through bottom-up ontological or evolutionary
processes (bottom-up causation). Although any of the
Thompson and Varela, 2001). İso-energicity can
underlying functional levels has its own dynamics, they are also
be seen as an intentional state that enables subject to top-down causation (“enslavement” Kelso, 1995).The
efficient responding to environmental threats, depicted “personal universe” may represent an integrative
but a “hard” question is how to explain an projection of these events in a supercausal space-time
apparently nonmaterial mind to the physical signature (Meijer and Korf, 2012).
brain (Smith, 2009; Diaz, 2000). There seems
some similarity with earlier approaches
assuming a mental attribute to any physical A potential weak spot in the iso-energic
entities. For example Bohm and Hiley, 1993 brain model is that the mechanism of
postulated the implicate order as a universal communication (information transfer) between
knowledge domain, while a world of proto- the supposed super-causal space-time memory
experiences was hypothesized by Vimal, 2008. domain and the geometry of the brain is not
In another quantum model of Schwartz et al. defined. In other words: what processes are
(2004), two processes are distinguished, of instrumental in the storage in and retrieval
which process 2 refers to basic neurophysiology. from this space-time domain and what kind of
Mental events are described as process 1, an neural mechanism handles this information and
“operator, which brings in a choice that is not brings it to perception, binding and action? The
determined by any currently known law of supposed “emergent mind or mental
nature, yet has a definite effect upon the brain workspace”, without a defined neural correlate,
of the chooser”. One is tempted to equate the is like a guitar player that tries to ply a tune only
“operator” with the proposed space-time with his right hand: one hears tones but no
configuration. The Zeno effect (necessary to coherent melody. It also invites tones of
stabilize the stochastic process 2 for a sufficient dualism and a revival of a classical soul
time period, as proposed by Stapp (2009), modality. Atmanspacher (2003) distinguished
would then be equivalent with retrieving the ontological, epistemological and
preceding state of the space-time methodological dualism and stated that “if
configuration”. transition from the fundamental level to that
with mind and matter separated is to be
addressed in terms of emergence, one would
have to think of it as an emergence of the
distinction of mind and matter rather than the
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 187
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

emergence of mind from matter”. In the between flat surfaces. Synaptic clefts and
following section more detailed mechanisms are specific structures in microtubule possess the
treated that could be helpful in a further dimensions at which photon-mediated
elaboration of this aspect.
polarization of the field could lead to such
Casimir effects (Hameroff, 1998; Lamoreaux,
The alternative of quantum mechanical 1997). Grandpierre (1999) studied the effects
space-time approaches fluctuations in the ZP energy field in the activity
Considering the robustness of the cerebral of the brain, also in relation to superluminal
traces of memory, Korf et al. (2010) proposes processes such as tachyons and scalar waves
that the brain can be viewed upon as a personal that mediate physical potential fields together
universe (Figure 4), formed during life, through
with information carrying photons, collectively
continuous actual realizations of dynamic brain
states. Potential energy and iso-energicity, as they exert immediate action at a distance.
maintained by metabolic processes, facilitate 2. Information “fitting” (handshaking) by
distribution of information over the brain, advanced and retarded wave information from
among others by initial protein conformations the past and the future, as postulated within the
changes. Here the present author finds a interactional interpretation of quantum physics
striking similarity with a quantum-like by Cramer (1988). In his Transactional
approach as recently proposed by various Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics, Cramer
authors in the field of quantum mechanical stated that:"Nature, in a very subtle way, may
aspects of collective memory fields. In general be engaging in backwards-in-time
at least five communication modalities for handshaking”. The transaction between
information flow between such a space-time retarded waves, coming from the past and
related memory field and the individual brain advanced waves, coming from the future, gives
that represent mutually related concepts, can be birth to a quantum entity with dual properties
considered: of the wave/particle. It is important to
1. Information storage and retrieval from underline that, unlike other interpretations of
the quantum vacuum, identified as the zero- QM, the transactional interpretation takes into
point (ZP) energy field (Davis et al., 2006) as account special relativity theory which
proposed by Lazslo (2007), Amoroso (1997), describes time as a dimension of space, as
Grandpierre (1999) and others. In the “Noetic mentioned earlier. Of note, the completed
Field Theory” of Amoroso (1997), vacuum transaction erases all advanced effects, so that
no direct advanced wave signaling is possible:
(zero-point) quantum fluctuations and The future can affect the past only very
gravitation were introduced as potential indirectly, by offering possibilities for
mechanisms explaining non-local information transactions.
exchange. The radiation pressure of the Bose
3. Information flow in the framework of
states, Fermi-quasi-particle transitions, vacuum time-symmetric quantum physics as proposed
zero point fluctuations, and string dynamics are by Aharonov (2010). Already, in 1964,
considered to be instrumental in driving this Aharonov, proposed a new framework called
dynamic transpersonal 'memory of being'. The time-symmetric quantum mechanics. Aharonov
electromagnetic vacuum couples to charged and Vaidman (1990) assigned to a quantum
particles in the Dirac sea of particles/anti- function at a given time two wave functions,
one evolving from the past to the present and
particles and the energy field penetrates the another evolving from the future toward the
universe at the micro and macro level, including past. The so called weak value of a quantum
our organism. It can manifest itself at the level variable is the physical property between
of single atoms and even appeared in the preselected and post-selected measurements in
context of opening of wormholes through which the time interval is symmetric under time
modification of negative energy density reversal. Usual (strong) measurements would
immediately collapse the wave functions in
(Milloni, 1994, Milloni and Shi, 1992). ZP
superposition to a definite state. Yet, repeated
energy was experimentally shown by the so post-selection weak measurement of the weak
called Casimir effect due to vibrational forces type clearly changed the pre-selection state,
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 188
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

revealing a time-backward aspect of non- but also a temporal one (Megidish et al., 2012).
locality. Thus, according to Aharonov et al. and It was proposed by Martin that archetypes can
presently associated research teams in the be stored as quantum systems and that
world, it appears that the universe might have a consciousness may be controlled by quantum
destiny that interacts with the past, in order to entanglement from outside space-time.
bring the present into view, supporting the idea Although this cannot be easily envisioned,
that the required knowledge was inherited from Nicolescu (1992; 2011) made clear that the
a common information pool. Recent series of relation between different levels of reality have
quantum experiments in many other to be interpreted in the framework of Gödel’s
laboratories seem to actually confirm the notion incompleteness theorems, and that it may be
that the future can influence results that intrinsically impossible to construct a complete
happened before those measurements were theory for describing the unity of and
even made. Recently time entanglement was transitions between all levels of reality.
shown between photons that never had co- Interestingly, recently a 5-dimensional space-
existed (Megidish et al., 2012). time brane model, including two imaginary
dimensions was proposed in order to
4. Information flow through holographic
adequately position self- consciousness and
resonance as put forward by Bohm and Hiley
universal consciousness in the cosmos (Carter,
(1987) and later by DiBase (2009), Mitschell
2014a; 2014b). Each wave function is supposed
and Staretz (2011) as well as Germine (2007).
to appear simultaneously in our normal 3-
Di Biase (2009) proposed a quantum
brane, as well as in the 4-brane (Minkowski
holographic model of brain-consciousness-
space) and in the 5-brane (Kaluza space).
universe interactions, based on the holonomic
Therefore, everything existent in our physical
neural networks of Karl Pribram, the
universe is, in principle, also represented in the
holographic quantum theory developed by
4- brane and 5- brane. The two imaginary 4-
David Bohm, and based on the non-locality
brane and 5-brane dimensions may be
property of the quantum field described by
necessary in order to accommodate symmetric
Umezawa, a subject that also was thoroughly
time events and self-reflective observation (or
discussed by Mitchell and Staretz (2011). The
mental creation), respectively, as essential
force carrier of the electromagnetic field is the
components of self-consciousness. A similar
photon. At a microscopic level, therefore, the
geometry that was nicely discussed earlier by
interaction between the constituent particles of
Smythies (20039, suggesting that
matter and the quantum vacuum involves
“consciousness may be in a brane rather than in
photons being exchanged between the virtual
the brain”. Atmanspacher (2003) explained that
particles of the vacuum and the quarks and
mind/matter correlations may require new
electrons in matter. Basically, any charge in
science, in the sense that the use of emergence
elementary matter, may distort, or “polarize,”
and reductionist schemes may not be adequate
the quantum vacuum in the immediate vicinity,
and should be replaced by possible symmetry
through attracting virtual particles with
breaking within a domain in which matter and
opposite electrical charges and repel virtual
mind are unseparated. He cites d’Espanat
particles with similar electrical charges. Macro-
postulating an independent “Ultimate Reality”
entanglement may be induced via electron spin,
that is neither mental nor material.
as well as orbital time and photon movements
(Persinger and Lavallee, 2010). The same group 6. Information storage and retrieval from
(Caswell et al., 2014), demonstrated that space-time geometry at the Planck scale, was
biophoton emission may be instrumental in proposed by Penrose and Hameroff (2012;
non-local human-electronic device interaction, 2013). The following part of the present paper
in which random electron tunneling may play a
role. basically cites and summarizes these articles
and that of Hameroff (2012):
5. Quantum information mechanisms were
recently used to model human consciousness as “At very small scales spacetime is not
well as the unconscious in relation to conscious smooth, but quantized. Granularity occurs at
perception (Martin et al., 2013) in which the incredibly small Planck scale" (10-33
various modalities of non-locality were centimeters, 10-43 seconds), which Penrose
discussed. Of note, entanglement and non- portrays as a dynamical spider-web of quantum
localty may not only apply to spatial separation spin networks (Rovelli and Smolin, 1995;
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 189
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

Smolin, 2004). Spin networks define spectra of semantic analysis of heard speech and
discrete Planck scale volumes and preparation of one's own spoken words and
configurations which dynamically evolve and sentences, learning and formation of memories,
define spacetime geometry. Planck-scale spin and choice, planning and execution of voluntary
networks could provide Whitehead's basic field acts. In speech, evoked potentials (EPs)
of proto-conscious experience. Penrose indicating conscious word recognition occur
objective (quantum state) reductions are about 400 ms after auditory input, however
bubble-like separations and collapses in semantic meaning is appreciated (and response
fundamental spacetime geometry extending initiated) after only 200 ms. As Velmans points
downward to the level of spin networks. Planck out, only two phonemes are heard by 200 ms,
scale spin networks encode proto-conscious and an average of 87 words share their first two
(funda-mental) experience (qualia). Particular phonemes. Even when contextual effects are
configurations of quantum spin geometry considered, semantic processing and initiation
convey particular varieties of proto-conscious of response occur before conscious recognition
experience, meaning and aesthetics. Of note, (Van Petten et al., 1999).
collapse of wave function is assumed here to
occur through an orchestrated; gravity
mediated, quantum state reduction, whereas
Melkikh (2012; 2013), rather explains the
collapse mechanism through the creation or
annihilation of virtual wave/particles,
representing a non-linear event within the non-
local quantum field.
The proposed OrchOR events thus occur
in the brain, extending downward to processes
in an experiential Planck scale medium. The
basic idea is that consciousness involves brain
activities coupled to self-organizing ripples in
fundamental reality (Figure 5). Due to inherent
uncertainty in electron localization, London Figure 5. Schematic representation of orchestrated quantum
forces which govern protein conformation are state reduction of vibrating aromatic structures in amino-acids
quantum effects which apparently couple to of micro-tubular or other neuronal proteins (left blue inset and
"zero point fluctuations" of the quantum right inset above), through interaction with basic space-time
vacuum (Milloni, 1994; 1992; Davis, 2006). geometry, producing subtle changes in space-time curvature
Quantum level dipole oscillations within (blisters or ripples, see inset right below). The particular ripples
hydrophobic pockets were proposed by Fröhlich are supposed to be the basis for individual memory as well as
so called qualia that can be retrieved to the neural system by
(1968) to regulate protein conformation, and superposition with closely related wave information, followed
Conrad (1994) suggested proteins utilize by quantum gravity mediated selection of a single state.
quantum superposition of various possible
conformations before one is selected. Roitberg
et al. (1995) showed functional protein Penrose suggested a-causal backward
vibrations which depend on quantum effects time effects used in conjunction with classical
centered in two hydrophobic phenylalanine channels could influence classical results in a
residues. Could proteins be utilizing quantum way unattainable by classical, future-directed
superposition (qubits) in determining their means alone, and that temporal non-locality
conformational states (bits)? Neural correlates and a-causal backward time effects were
of conscious perception occur 150–500 ms after essential features of entanglement. He
impingement on our sense organs, apparently suggested that in EPR, quantum
too late for causal efficacy in seemingly information/quanglement from the
conscious perceptions and willful actions, often measurement/state reduction moves backward
initiated or completed within 100 ms after in (what we “naively” perceive as classical) time
sensory impingement. to the unified pair, then to the complementary
twin, influencing and correlating its state when
Velmans (1991; 2000) listed a number of measured. Can quantum backward referral
such examples: analysis of sensory inputs and happen in the brain?
their emotional content, phonological, and
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 190
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

OrchOR suggests that tubulin states and ”high dimensional state-space, that combines
superpositions are initiated by electron cloud phonetic, semantic and synthetic constrains for
dipoles (van der Waals London forces) in continuously converting this developing
clusters of aromatic resonance rings (e.g., in understanding into successful bodily interaction
amino acids tryptophan, phenylalanine, with the environment”. As mentioned above,
tyrosine. London force dipoles are inherently the mechanistic aspects of the isoenergic theory
quantum mechanical, tending to superposition leaves much thinking space open, and a clear
(Figure 5). They also mediate effects of general alternative or rather a complementary quantum
anesthetic gases which act in aromatic clusters approach would be attractive.
(“hydrophobic pockets”) in neuronal proteins
including tubulin to selectively erase
Generalization of quantum formalisms
consciousness (Hameroff, 2006). This suggests
and space-time projections
a deeper order, finer scale component of the
Psychological observations and recent
neural system.
experiments have led to non-deterministic
Each OrchOR quantum state reduction models based on QM mathematics: QM serves
also causes temporal non-locality, sending in this case as a metaphor (Atmanspacher 2007;
quantum information/quanglement (with 2004; Allefeld et al., 2009, Bruza and
gravitational self-energy E) backward in what Busemeyer, 2012; Pothos and Busemeyer, 2011;
we perceive as classical time, integrating with Trueblood and Busemeyer, 2012). Rapidly
forward-going E to help reach E = ħ/t, perhaps alternating brain and mind states are mirrored
earlier than would otherwise occur. As by ambiguity pictures, as if the brain is in a
described previously, OrchOR temporal non- state of superposition (Atmanspacher et al.,
locality and backward time referral of quantum 2004). For example, a quantum approach was
information can provide real-time conscious used to model a so called bi-stable perception: a
causal control of voluntary actions (Wolf, 1998; figure (here a Necker cube) can be interpreted
Sarfatti, 2011). However evidence for backward as either of two spatial configurations. The
time effects in the brain (Libet et al., 1983; Ma switch between these interpretations is
et al., 2012), and in quantum physics (Penrose, assumed to be short as compared to the
1989, 2004; Aharonov and Vaidman, 1990; observation time (“Zeno effect”; Stapp, 2009;
Bennett and Wiesner, 1992) suggest that Schwartz et al., 2005.) and, moreover, the two
quantum state reductions in OrchOR can send interpretations are mutually exclusive: the
quantum information backward in (what we interwoven objects are not simultaneously
perceive as) time, on the order of hundreds of perceived. During a short period of time only
milliseconds. This enables consciousness to one configuration is recognized and the
regulate axonal firings and behavioral actions in alternating views are more or less subject to the
real-time, when conscious choice is felt to occur (free?) will of the observer. The time course of
(and actually does occur), thus rescuing the cerebral electrophysiological activity has
consciousness from necessarily being an been analyzed during the initiation and
epiphenomenal illusion”. execution of voluntary behavior (e.g.,
movement of the fingers) by Libet and later by
others. This approach (Libet, 2006; Haggard,
In Summary
2005; Haggard and Eimer, 1999; Soon et al.,
The concept of iso-energicity was introduced by
2008; Bode et al., 2011) might also be regarded
Korf et al. as an emergent property of the brain,
as a decision experiment and the readiness
allowing efficient coordination of localized
potential, preceding the voluntary finger
neural activities and fast access. The concept of
movement, might then reflect a superposition
iso-energicity may serve as a “bridging
of a brain state. The decision of making a
hypothesis”, a term mentioned by Nagel (1961).
movement can be seen as the collapse of the
It may, in fact, help the organism to survive in a
wave: producing “locality in the personal
given environment and by rapid responses also
universe.”
can shape its environment to meet its needs.
The proposed space-time structure should be Spivey and coworkers have emphasized
seen as a supervening property of the brain in the continuity of the mind (stream of
the sense Kim (2005) has discussed. Spivey consciousness), rather than an order of
(2007) stated that cognitive processes can best sequential states. They illustrate their ideas by
be described as a continuous travel through a showing that a subject stays longer indecisive
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 191
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

when decisions are more ambivalent; once the that is a dynamic field accumulating new data
“choice” is made the decision trajectory is very and personal experiences during life (Figure 2
short (Pezzulo et al., 2011; Spivey, 2007; 2012). and 3). These field properties may obey other
These laboratory experiments are compatible laws than the known natural laws that are
with the idea that the central nervous system instrumental in the description of the world
(subject) develops a kind of “superposition from which they originate. Universal
state” before deciding (collapse). The consciousness, originally pictured by David
importance of this collective work is that mind Bohm as an implicate order, exhibits a physical
seems to operate according to a quantum nature that, in principle, allows bidirectional
mechanical framework as is also described for interactions with human consciousness and
human society in general (Vedral, 2010), which mind (Grandpierre, 1997; Holland, 1996;
in fact, should be anticipated realizing that Sutherland, 2006).
human brain, acting in its environment is
fundamentally based on mechanisms of a
quantum realm. The Concept of a Bi-cyclic Operating
Workspace in Brain: Top-down and
This section illustrates possible
Bottom up Flow of Information
applications of QM theories on perceptual and
The quantum field theories display both bottom
psychological processing, i.e., they provide
up and top-down aspects, and this is also true
models for these processes. These psychological
for the various iso-energetic (emergent)
QM theories do not make assumptions or
processes (Korf, 2010; 2012). Top-down
proposals on the nature of the mind.
supervenience was proposed to be mediated by
Considering Searle’s idea that at least some
a space-time memory domain build up during
brain processes equate mental processes, it is
life time. Bottom up information transfer could
proposed that these brain processes behave
originate at geometric space-time at the Planck
quantum-like. In line with this philosophical
scale, as earlier proposed by Penrose and
analysis the present paper considers QM
Hameroff, 2012, and gradually may become
concepts to be the concerted action of
expressed at higher molecular and cellular
neurobiological mechanisms such as
levels, while vice versa; wave state reduction in
superposition (readiness potential), brain-to-
the brain may inform quantum fields on a
brain coupling (quantum field) and wave-
continuous basis. Interestingly, such a vertical
collapse (localization of functions). If indeed the
counter-flux of information (Figure 6) would
mental processes are dissociated from brain
provide an integrated cybernetic control system
metabolism, than the mind is evidently
that may enable highly efficient and rapid
confined to a relatively stable brain structure
perturbations in brain function, with some
and a robust personal brain or “personal
delay also being expressed at a “horizontal”
universe” is formed during life. The emerging
orientated neuronal network level. Such a
personal universe, associated with a high
versatile operating bi-cyclic system may also
potential energy and iso-energicity, therefore
allow neural signal amplification as well as
enables random and quantum-like transitions
forward and backward causation, the latter
in the brain.
through holographic interference (Pribram,
Of note, any organism and also the brain 1986; Mitchell and Staretz, 2011; Levin, 2012;
is an open system, implying a continuous Germine, 2007) of past (memory) and future
interaction with the environment. QM theories informational aspects.
of the brain/mind assume that, apart from This physically based brain structure may
sensory information, wave information is be instrumental in a complementary mode of
continuously imported in the brain and recurrent types of information processing that
concomitantly exported. Moreover, a viable may be crucial for integral mental perception
open system maintains a maximal potential and causation and can also accommodate
energy and iso-energicity for expressing a symmetric time concepts (Atmanspacher, 2011;
maximum alternative brain states by sequential Primas, 2009; Aharonov et al., 2010). It is
as well as parallel transitions. Hence, not only a proposed that such a specialized “multi-
personal universe can be build up and layered” physical brain compartment, may
maintained in individual life, but according to represent a workspace in which the two
QM concepts, a concomitant personal state is bridging and super-causal iso-energetic and
produced within a universal knowledge domain, quantum processes, act in concert and in a
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 192
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

complementary manner. The author envisions organism in relation to interpreting the

such an operating system being organized as a environment. In a sense, this micro-model
number of nested, spatio-temporal, domains shows similarities with the sequence- seeking
that allow the bidirectional flow of information and counter stream macro-model for
(bottom up and top-down, large arrows in the information processing in the cortex (Ullman,
center block of Figure 6). A multi-layered 1991)
operational organization of brain in conscious
It should be emphasize that the sequential
perception, requiring a nested organization of
steps (on the right in Figure 6 and 7) may
electromagnetic fields, was recently proposed
contain classical neurological mechanisms,
by Fingelkurts et al. (2013).
except spin- and/or string-mediated initiation
events that should be merely seen as quantum
processes. At the bottom micro-level, such an
information flow may be initiated on the level of
string mediated collapse of wave function
(Mavromatos and Nanopoulos, 1995) and/or
may operate through spin-dependent
transformation of classical and quantum
mechanical information, that may also be the
basis for the so-called quantum potential or
pilot waves of the implicate order proposed by
David Bohm, 1987. The corresponding 4-
dimensional space-time domain also introduces
aspects of two-times physics, tensed and causal
time (Figure 2).
As mentioned above, Penrose, 1989,
Figure 6. Potential cybernetic effects on various levels of brain proposed that spin networks could be
organization: Starting in the upper middle part and following a fundamental in the description of space-time in
sequence to the right the following elements are pictured: spin a background lacking manner (Rovelli, 1996;
networks on the Planck scale, superstring modalities of Smolin, 2004). In the brain, spin-networks
elementary particles, elementary wave/particles (bosons,
were pictured as electron-unpaired electron
electrons), atomic structures such as metals and ions,
molecular 3-dimensional structures, cell organelles and spins that represent pixels, collectively forming
membranes, single neurons, networks of neurons, intercellular a “mind screen” that is known to be highly
spaces and electromagnetic force fields, whole brain with right sensitive to fluctuating internal magnetic fields
and left hemispheres, brain as part of the nervous system and and action potentials. Such perturbations were
whole body, and finally brain as holographic expression of considered to modulate neural dynamics, but
cosmic consciousness. A hypothesized mental workspace is also could enhance synchronization and
depicted in the center with bidirectional (circular) of quantum
stochastic resonance as have been noticed in
and iso-energetic information flows. The two domains may be
quantum correlated.
brain (Hu and Wu, 2004). The particular spin
chemistry bridges classical neural activity,
serving as input via the magnetic influences on
Within the various domains, an optimal biochemical processing. Spin network dynamics
communication might occur between the iso- may enable a quantum decoherence-resistant
energetic and quantum-based information entangled modality of wave collapse since,
flows, through wave/particle transitions as well through tunneling, they are rather insulated
as coherence/decoherence cycles (horizontal from the environment in decoherence-free
arrows in Figure 6). In such a dynamic context, subspaces, while repeated attention/intention
the causal (our normal) time perception and (Stapp, 2012), may help in promoting coherent
tensed time perception are separated but can be quantum states (Hu and Wu, 2004).
in correlated states (Primas, 2003). The here
proposed interacting cycles of both the iso- In order to show how such a cyclic mental
energetic and quantum mediated streams of workspace could operate at the
information may exhibit nonlinear features atomic/molecular and field levels, we present
(Freeman and Vitiello, 2008), enabling the one example of a potential bidirectional
amplification of minimal information signals information flow that is based on the central
for the realization of rapid action of the role of Ca2+ ions under the control of various
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 193
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

neuronal proteins. In this concept Ca2+ is a sort of bioreaction quantum computing was
viewed upon as an informational vehicle stressed by Clark (2012).
influencing the activity state of the neuron
Total brain activity is determined by
(Figure 7, based on the data of Pereira and
genetic and epigenetic information,
Furlan, 2007). Similar schemes could be
neuroplasticity, as well as functional cycles of
imagined for other molecular mechanisms,
efferent and afferent signals (internal copies
mediating the tuning of cellular activity into
and external mirror information), that reflect
large scale patterns, in the context of the
the interaction with the whole body and its
creation of higher mental functions. As
environment and dynamically produce our
potential candidates, the hydrogen atom in
inner worldview, earlier referred to as “personal
relation to H2O and unpaired electron spins as
universe” (Figure 3).
present in in DNA, other metal ions, as well as
present in O2 and NO molecules (if associated Of note, much of the sequential steps
with membrane proteins), have been proposed depicted in Figure 6 and 7 are situated in single
(Hu and Wu, 2004). neurons. Yet, our model, in the higher-order
levels, requires an integrating modality in which
the firing patterns of millions of neuronal
networks are translated in an meaningful
overall brain response. Sensory processing may
involve the formation of wave packets affecting
large populations of neurons, instrumental in
the reciprocal broadcasting of excitatory
patterns located at several brain regions
(Freeman and Vitiello, 2006), and inducing
neuronal assembly. Interestingly, in this
process calcium waves along the astroglial
syncitium may play a role, contributing to
collective oscillations and synchrony and
thereby to efficient binding of distributed
neuronal activity, (bottom part of Figure 7). Yet,
proper information integration, transmission
2+
Figure 7. The role of Ca ions in the bottom-up and top-down and exchange with outer information domains
information flow from the micro- to macro- level in the require a guided interactive quantum process,
neuronal organization of the brain, as related to higher in which the classical separation of sender and
cognitive functions and consciousness. receiver is overcome through an act of
measurement and/or proper resonance with the
The informational aspect of Ca2+ is information source. This implicitly should be
encoded in positive and negative charges within based on the phenomenon of entanglement and
micro-sites on the surface of a spectrum of consequently on unitary and conscious field
flexible macromolecules that allow binary properties of the neural and exo-systems
choices at various spatio-temporal levels. The (McFadden, 2007; John, 2001; Bohm and
latter may also depend on ultra-rapid Hiley, 1987). This allows the continuous
conformational changes in proteins in pico- exchange of meaningful information with global
seconds, as influenced by locally induced magnetic fields as proposed by Mc Fadden
electromagnetic fields that thereby obtain a (2007) and Burke and Persinger (2013) and/or
probabilistic electro-magnetic vibratory a universal quantum knowledge field as earlier
character, an aspect that could also play a role proposed by Bohm and Hiley (1987). The
in the present iso-energetic brain model. In implicate order concept was suggested to also
turn, local magnetic fields can influence neural contain personal information about our mental
firing patterns and induce regional convergent double in the universal consciousness domain
zones of brain activity that are produced (Vitiello, 1995).
through sub-threshold EPSP’s and inhibitory
inter-neuronal synaptic activity, being Neural interaction sites for bridging
amplified by reentry and recurrent circuitry quantum information and rapid iso-
(Pereira and Furlan, 2007). The importance of energetic information transfer
Ca2+ waves in fast strategic search algorithms in
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 194
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

The bottom-up and top-down vertical neural simultaneous. From this it is argued that the
pathways as schematically depicted in Figure 6 real units of consciousness could be at the
and 7, likely form a fine-tuned organization of picoseconds level, although such units cannot
neurological/biochemical signature, be discerned by the conscious subject.
functionally connected with deep quantum-
A ‘poised realm’ of reversible coherence/
based information processing. This requires
de-coherence process (Kauffman, 2012a;
that each sequential step should provide an
2012b), could be situated in micro-sites that
output of the type that can be used in either of
house such a conversion capability (Figure 8).
the two supposed systems: quantum wave
Mathematician Peter Shor (1996) proved a
information should be collapsed or de-cohered
quantum error correction theorem for quantum
to material signals. This could occur for
computers. If quantum degrees of freedom in a
instance during synaptic vesicle release or
quantum computer are de-cohering due to loss
through potential Casimir effects induced by
of phase information from the computer (the
zero-point quantum fluctuations in the synaptic
system) to its environment, then Shor showed
cleft, or alternatively, in microtubule
that if information is added to the system from
(Hameroff, 2012), where material/physical
the outside, the decohering degrees of freedom
information should be translated to a wave
could be made to recohere again. Recoherence
form and vice versa.
can occur, for instance, being driven by
Where in the brain, and how, could coherent electromagnetic field whose intensity
coherent wave superposition and quantum and period distribution can be tuned non-
coherence occur? A number of sites and various randomly, thereby injecting information that
types of quantum interactions have been results in a new controlled superposition state
proposed. Microtubules may indeed be an (Kauffman, 2012b). This clearly says that re-
important ingredient (Hameroff and Penrose, coherence is, in principle, possible. This idea
2013), however various organelles and bio- finds support in the papers of physicist Briegel
molecular structures including clathrins, myelin (2006) showing that a quantum coherent
(glial cells), pre-synaptic vesicular grids (Beck ‘entangled’ system can decohere to classicity
and Eccles, 1992) and neural membrane than recohere to quantum entangled coherence.
proteins (Marshall, 1989) might also
In looking for such a system, Vattay at al.
participate. In this framework, quantum
(2012) examined the recent research on
coherence may be induced by pumping by
quantum properties of photosynthetic systems
thermal and biochemical energies, perhaps in
(Arndt, 2010; Lloyd, 2012). In photosynthesis
the manner proposed by Fröhlich (1968; 1970;
photons are captured by the chlorophyl
1975).
molecule that is held by antenna protein. The
As mentioned in the previous sections, it chlorophyl molecule maintains quantum
was inferred by Korf (2010; 2012), that the coherence for up to 750 femtoseconds. This is
ultra-rapid responses of the brain cannot be much longer than the classical prediction, and
explained by classical nerve excitation, action is viewed as responsible for the higher than
potentials, neurotransmitter release and further classically predicted efficiency of energy
propagation and integration of neuronal transfer. The particular antenna protein plays a
activity. Instead molecular perturbations were role in preventing more rapid decoherence, or
suggested mediating high frequency in inducing recoherence in decohering parts of
conformational changes in neural proteins that the chlorophyll molecule. Part of the quantum
have been shown to exhibit a vibrational state. system may start to decohere, but be forced
Evidence for coherent excitations in proteins back into coherence, described by the
has indeed been reported (Georgiev, 2008; Vos abovementioned quantum error correction.
et al., 1993). Tests show that there is a Kauffman thinks that this raises the possibility
minimum timescale of about 30 ms needed for that webs of quantum coherence or partial
a subject to distinguish two sensory inputs as coherence can extend across a large part of a
being separate. This means that consciousness neuron, and can remain poised between
cannot be slower than 30 ms. However, patients coherence and decoherence.
with time agnosia, who have subjective
It should be noted here that, in relating
experience of the passage of time, confirm that
quantum coherence to consciousness,
it is physically possible to have consecutive
Kauffman assumes, like Hameroff, that
conscious steps that are experienced as
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 195
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

coherence would have to be sustained for the even a process of photon quantum teleportation
milliseconds timescales associated with neural (Salari et al., 2010) have been suggested for
processing, rather than the femto- and long distance signaling in the brain, a process
picosecond timescales associated with quantum that both employs classical and quantum
coherence in photosynthetic organisms. elements. Ehresmann et al. (2011) stresses the
dynamic character of a multi-scale flexible brain
Hameroff and Penrose (2011; 2012)
structure, varying over time and with a
required quantum coherence to be sustained for
hierarchy of complexification levels, in which
25 ms. Tegmark’s paper (2005), aimed at
higher cognitive and mental processes can
refuting Hameroff’s OrchOR theory did not
develop. This occurs within a 4-dimensional
consider coherence over shorter timescales,
global landscape with retrospective and
because he was directing his argument at the
prospective elements that, among others, result
longer timescales of Hameroff’s primary theory.
in changes in the synchronization of neuronal
Georgiev (2000), queried whether there is any
assemblies as well as dynamic adaption of
evidence that consciousness has to arise over a
neuronal contacts.
milliseconds timescale. If consciousness could
operate over a picosecond or shorter timescale, Such a multidimensional space/time
then Tegmark’s calculations do not present any brain structure, being open to external
problem for quantum consciousness. electromagnetic and quantum fields, could also
provide an interpretation framework for
understanding of the, until now, non-
comprehensible time delays in subconscious
and conscious perception, the inner knowing of
qualia as well as the subjective experience of
transpersonal and extra-sensory events such as
intuition, serendipity, clairvoyance and
telepathy (Libet, 2001; 2006; Jahn and Dunne,
2004).

Concluding remarks
The key notes of the present paper are: 1) there
exist configurations or states of the brain that
may be directly associated with mental
processes that have a physical and/or wave
Figure 8. Schematic representation of a poised realm allowing informational aspect; 2) the two mind theories
coherence and de-coherence cycles, potentially occurring at describing the presumed emergent or backward
the level of channel proteins as related to neurotransmission causative brain configurations, remain to be
(left) and involving quantum features such as wave function further developed and/or refined; 3) The latter
reduction, entanglement, superposition and a supercausal
projection in a hypothesized space-time projection or
is also related to subjective (intrapersonal and
alternatively quantum geometric space time perturbations at potential transpersonal) experiences and
the Planck scale (right part). perception of qualia; 4) quantum concepts and
models, useful to understand mental
processing, apply to the presumed physical
In addition to vertical bottom up and top complexities of the brain as well as a universal
down information transfer, rather separately knowledge domain that is 4-dimensional with
organized neurological and quantum pathways bidirectional time; 5) substance or multi-aspect
could “horizontally” communicate by correlated dualism, is rejected in favor of
time domains or be helped by local resonant or complementarity of brain processes; 6) the
entanglement properties (Figure 6 and 7). In creative power of biological evolution (the
this respect, a number of potential intra- tendency to develop life by embodiment of
neuronal and inter-neuronal connective useful information), can be attributed both to
mechanisms should be taken into account. elementary physical phenomena such as self-
Solitons, described as dissipative waves or aggregation into emergent higher complexity
tunneling bio-photons, have been proposed as and to quantum field mediated backward
intracellular local effectors (Georgiev and causation through selection of parallel
Glazebrook, 2006; Dotta, 2012). Interestingly, superpositions; 7) it is unlikely that either of
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 196
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm

these processes alone constitutes the life- universal consciousness on the basis of an
conferring properties of nature including the extended mind.
proper functioning of the human brain. Such
In the present essay, it is considered that
quantum mind/brain mechanisms thus can be
the brain and its mental aspects are somehow
fully described in physical and biological terms,
coupled to the universe, i.e., that apart from
as related to various levels of organization from
neurobiological QM processes cosmological QM
the micro- to macro scales. In some QM brain
processes affect brain transitions. A unified
theories, dualism of mind and matter is tacitly
theory of mind and matter have been postulated
assumed, but such a concept is not preferred by
earlier on the basis of information, viewed upon
the present author.
as the most fundamental element for the
Any organism (and thus the brain) is description of the fabric of reality (Meijer, 2012;
considered as an open system, meaning a 2013a; 2013b; Samal, 2001; Levin, 2011;
continuous interaction with the environment. Grandpierre et al., 1997; 2013; Carter, 2014).
Yet this must occur in a noise protected On the basis of such an informational
manner, having capabilities of feedback control. interaction, some aspects of cosmic physics, as
Indeed, James, Bergson and Huxley, and more for instance the second law of thermodynamics
recently, Jahn and Dunne (2004) speculated (the entropy law), might apply directly to the
that part of the brain acts as a filter or reducing brain. In other words: life, with its potential
valve by selectively blocking out information energy and iso-energicity as well as the ability
and allowing registration and expression of only to screen and collect useful information, does in
a narrow band of, perceivable reality. They state a way counteract the destructive tendency of
that in the course of evolution, the brain has increased entropy and at the same time may
been trained to eliminate most of those employ (entropic) gravity mechanisms to
perceptions that do not directly aid our materialize essential knowledge. Perhaps this
everyday survival. A hypothesis of the bimodal modality has been foreseen by Erwin
development of the brain in two opposite Schrödinger, 1986 as the potential contribution
directions, i.e., improvement of technical and of quantum processes in creating mental
logical abilities, yet loss of dimensions.
contemplative/spiritual potential, represents a
challenging one from all kinds of perspectives
(Bitbol and Luisi, 2011). Hence, not only a
personal brain is build up and maintained in
individual life, but at the same time a Acknowledgements
concomitant personal state is produced within a The support of various colleagues is highly
appreciated. In particular I want to thank especially
universal consciousness domain, accumulating Prof. Jaap Korf, and also Dr. Rob Haaxsma, Prof.
new data and personal experiences during life, Jan Engberts, Dr. Han Wassenaar, and Prof. Ab
yet clearly operating in the framework of Gramsbergen. The author is grateful to Dr. Ulisse
biological evolution and personal survival. The DiCorpo for the consent obtained to cite parts of
human brain can therefore be viewed upon as texts of a preliminary article on this item, as it
an interfacing system connecting individual and appeared in Syntropy Journal.

eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com

NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 197
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm
References Bohm D, Hiley B J. An ontological basis for the quantum
Abbott DW, Davies PC, Pati AK. (Editors) Quantum theory. Physics Reports, 1987; 144:323-348.
Aspects of Life. Imperial College Press. London, 2008. Bókkon I, Salari V, Tuszynski J, Antal I. Estimation of the
Aharonov Y and Vaidman L. Properties of a quantum number of biophotons involved in the visual
system during the time interval between two perception of a single-object image: biophoton
measurements. Physical Review 1990; 41(1):11-20. intensity can be considerably higher inside cells than
Aharonov Y, Popescu S, Tollaksen J. A time-symmetric outside. J Photochem Photobiol B Biol 2010; 100:160-
formulation of quantum mechanics. Physics Today 166.
2010; November, pp.27-32. Boyden ES, Zhang F, Bamberg E, Nagel G, Deisseroth K.
Allefeld C, Atmansacher H, Wackerkanm J. Mental states Millisecond-timescale, genetically targeted optical
as macrostates emerging from brain electrical control of neural activity. Nat Neurosci 2005; 8
dynamics. Chaos 2009; 19 (1): 1-32 (9):1263–1268.
Amoroso RL. An Introduction to Noetic Field Theory: The Briegel HJ, Browne DE, Dür W, Raussendorf R, Van den
Quantization of Mind. Noetic Journal 1999; 2(1): 28- Nest M. Measurement‐based quantum computation.
39. Nature Physics 2009; 5: 19.
Arndt M, Juffmann T and Vedral V. Quantum physics Bruza PD, Busemeyer JR. Quantum models of cognition
meets biology, HFSP Journal 2009; 3(6): 386–400. and decision. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge
doi: 10.2976/1.3244985 2012.
Atmanspacher H. Contextual emergence from physics to Burke RC and Persinger MA. Convergent quantitative
cognitive neuroscience. J Consciousness Studies 2007; solutions indicating the human hippocampus as a
14:18-36. singularity and access to cosmological consciousness.
Atmanspacher H. Rotter S. Interpreting neurodynamics: NeuroQuuantology 2013; 11(1): 1-7.
concepts and facts. Cogn Neurodyn 2008; 2: 297-318. Carter P J. Imaginary Physics. 2014 b.
Atmanspacher H, Filk T, Römer H. Quantum Zeno http://vixra.org/pdf/1210.0124v3.pdf
features of bistable perception. Biol Cybern 2004; 90: Carter PJ. Consciousness and Perception in Higher-
33-40. Dimensional Quantum Space-time. NeuroQuantology
Atmanspacher H. Mind and Matter as asymptotically 2014; 12(1):46-75.
disjoint, inequivalent representations with broken Caswell JM, Dotta BT, Persinger MA. Cerebral Biophoton
time-reversal symmetry. Emission as a Potential Factor In Non-local Human-
http://www.igpp.de/english/tda/pdf/echo4.pdf Machine interaction. NeuroQuantology 2014; 12(1): 1-
Atmanspacher H. Quantum approaches to consciousness. 11.
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy 2011; 1-33. Churchland PM. Matter and consciousness: a
Baylor DA, Lamb TD, Yau KW. Responses of retinal rods contemporary introduction to the philosophy of mind.
to single photons. J Physiol 1979; 288:613-634. Cambridge Massachusetts: MIT Press. 1988.
Beck F, Eccles J Quantum aspects of brain activity and the Clark KB. Bioreaction computing without quantum
role of consciousness. PNAS USA 1992; 89:11357- diffusion. NeuroQuantology, 2012; 10(4): 646-654.
11361. Conrad M. Amplification of superpositional effects
Beck F. Eccles J. Quantum Processes in the Brain: A through electronic-conformational interactions. Chaos,
scientific basis of consciousness. In: N. Osaka (Ed.), Solitons and Fractals 1994; 4:423-438.
Neural Basis of Consciousness. Amsterdam, Cramer J. An Overview of the Transactional
Philadelphia: John Benjamins, 2003. Interpretation. International Journal of Theoretical
Beck F. My Odyssey with Sir John Eccles. Physics 1988; 27: 227.
NeuroQuantology 2008b; 6(2):161-163 Davia CJ. Life, Catalysis and Excitable Media: Dynamic
DOI: 10.14704/nq.2008.6.2.170 Systems Approach to Metabolism and Cognition. In:
Beck F. Quantum brain dynamics and consciousness. In: The Emerging Physics of Consciousness, (Ed J.A.
The physical nature of consciousness. Ed. P. van Locke, Tuszynski), Springer Berlin, 2010; pp.255-292.
Amsterdam, Benjamins; 2001, pp 83-116. Davies P, Gregersen NH. Information and the Nature of
Beck F. Synaptic Quantum Tunnelling in Brain Activity. Reality: From Physics to Metaphysics. Cambridge:
NeuroQuantology 2008a; 6(2): 140-151. doi: Cambridge University Press, 2010.
10.14704/nq.2008.6.2.168 Davies PCW. Quantum fluctuations and life. 2004;
Bennet CH, Wiesner S J. Communication via one- and Available on: arXiv:quant-ph/0403017
two-particle operators on Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen De Zwart JA, van Gelderen P, Jansma JM, Fukunaga M,
states. Phys Rev Lett 1992; 69, 2881 Bianciardi M, Duyn JH. Hemodynamic nonlinearities
Bergson H. L ’Evolution Créatrice. 1907 ; 90e edition affect BOLD fMRI response timing and amplitude.
Paris PUF ; 1957 Neuroimage 2009; 47:1649-58.
Bernroider G. Roy S. Quantum-Classical Correspondence Di Biase F. A Holo-informational Model of Consciousness.
in the Brain: Scaling, Action Distances and Quantum Biosystems 2009; 3:207-220.
Predictability behind Neural Signals. Forma 2004; 19: Diaz J-L. Mind-brain unity, dual aspect and the emergence
55–68. of consciousness. Philos Psychol 2000; 13:393- 403.
Bitbol M and Luisi PL. Science and the Self-Referentiality Dotta BT, Saroka KS, Persinger MA. Increased photon
of Consciousness. Journal of Cosmology 2011; 14: 1-18. emission from the head while imagining light in the
Bode S, He AH, Soon CS, Trampel R, Turner R. Tracking dark is correlated with changes in
the Unconscious Generation of Free Decisions Using electroencephalographic power: Support for Bókkon's
UItra-High Field fMRI. PLoS ONE 2011; 6(6): e21612. Biophoton Hypothesis. Neurosci Lett 2012; 513: 151–
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0021612 154.
Bohm D. A new theory of the relationship of mind and Eccles JC. Evolution of consciousness. PNAS USA 1992;
matter. Philosophical Psychology 1990; 3:271-286. 89: 7320-7324.

eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com

NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 198
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm
Edelman GM, Tononi G. The universe of consciousness. Debates, Editors Stuart Hameroff, Alfred Kaszniak,
How matter becomes imagination. Basic Books New Alwyn Scott, MIT Press, Cambridge MA, 1998.
York, 2001. Hameroff S. Orchestrated Reduction of Quantum
Edelman GM. Wider than the Sky: The Phenomenal Gift of Coherence in Brain Microtubules: A Model for
Consciousness, Yale Univ. Press, 2004 Consciousness. NeuroQuantology 2007; 5(1): 1-8. DOI:
Edwards P. Panpsychism. In: Paul Edwards (ed.) The 10.14704/nq.2007.5.1.114
Encyclopedia of Philosophy; 1967; vol. 5. Hameroff SR. The brain is both a neurocomputer and
Ehresmann AC. A Multi-scale Dynamical Model for quantum computer. Cognitive Science 2007; 31: 1035-
Neuro-Bio Systems. Application to Neural Processing 1045.
and to Aging. 2011, http://ehres.pagesperso- Holland P. Quantum back-reaction and the particle law of
orange.fr/Neuro-bio.pdf motion. 1996.
Fingelkurts AA, Fingelkurts AA, Neves CFH. http://users.ox.ac.uk/~gree0579/index_files/back-
Consciousness as a phenomenon in the operational reaction.pdf
architectonics of brain organization. Criticality and Hu H and Wu M. Action Potential Modulation of Neural
self-organization considerations. Chaos Solitons & Spin Networks Suggests Possible Role of Spin.
Fractals 2013; 55: 13-31. NeuroQuantology 2004; 2(4): 309-317. DOI:
Freeman WJ and Vitiello G. Nonlinear brain dynamics as 10.14704/nq.2004.2.4.53
macroscopic manifestation of underlying many-body
field dynamics. Physics of Life Reviews 2006; 3(2): Hu H and Wu M. Concerning Spin as Mind-Pixel: How
93–118. Mind Interacts with the Brain Through Electric Spin
Fröhlich H. Long range coherence and the actions of Effects. NeuroQuantology 2008; 6(1): 26-31. DOI:
enzymes. Nature 1970; 228: 1093. 10.14704/nq.2008.6.1.153
Fröhlich H. Long-range coherence and energy storage in Hu H and Wu M. Photon Induced Non-Local Effects of
biological systems. Int J Quantum Chem 1968; 2: 641– General Anesthetics on the Brain. NeuroQuantology
649. 2006; 4(1): 17-31. DOI: 10.14704/nq.2006.4.1.86
Fröhlich H. The extraordinary dielectric properties of Hu H, Wu M. Current landscape and future direction of
biological materials and the action of enzymes. PNAS theoretical and experimental quantum brain/ mind/
USA 1975; 72: 4211–4215. consciousness research. J Consc Exploration &
Georgiev DD and Glazebrook D. Dissipation waves for Research 2010; 1: 888-897.
information transfer in neurobiology- Some Jahn RG and Dunne BJ. Sensors, Filters, and the Source of
implications. Informatica 2006; 30: 221-232. Reality. Journal of Scientific Exploration 2004; 18(4):
Georgiev DD. The causal consciousness. b-Neurexin 547-70.
promotes neuromediator release via vibrationally John ER. A field theory of consciousness. Consciousness
assisted multidimensional tunneling. and Cognition 2001; 10:184-213.
http://cogprints.org/2809/1/causal.pdf?origin=public Kafatos M. Cosmos and Quantum: Frontiers for the future.
ation_detail J Cosmology 2009; 18: 511-528.
Germine M. The Holographic Principle Theory of Mind. Kauffman S A. Reinventing the sacred. Basic Books New
2007; York ISBN978-0-465-01888-g; 2008
http://goertzel.org/dynapsyc/2007/holomind.htm Kauffman S. Answering Descartes: Beyond Turing. 2012 b;
Grandpierre A , Chopra D, Doraiswami P M, Tanzi R, http://mitpress.mit.edu/sites/default/files/titles/alife
Kafatos M C. A Multidisciplinary Approach to Mind /0262297140chap4.pdf
and Consciousness. NeuroQuantology 2013; 11: 607- Kauffman S. Is there a poised realm between quantum and
617. classical worlds? 2012 a;
Grandpierre A. The Nature of Man-Universe Connection. http://stuartkauffman.com/index_25_1612352741.pdf
The Noetic Journal 1999; 2:52-67. Kelso JAS. Dynamic patterns: The self-organization of
Grandpierre A. The Physics of Collective Consciousness. brain and behavior. Cambridge MA, MIT Press; 1995.
World Futures. J Gen Evolution 1997; 48(1-4):23-56. Kim J. Physicalism, or something near enough. Princeton
Hagan S, Hameroff SR, Tuszynski JA. Quantum University Press, 2005; pp.1-174.
computation in brain microtubules: Decoherence and King CC. Chaos, Quantum-transactions and
biological feasibility. Phys Rev E 2002; 65: 061901. Consciousness. NeuroQuantology 2003; 1: 129-162.
Haggard P, Eimer M. On the relation between brain Koch C, Hepp K. Quantum; mechanics in the brain. Nature
potentials and the awareness of voluntary movements. 2006; 440 (7084):611-612.
Exp Brain Res 1999; 126: 128-133. Korf J, Gramsbergen JB. Timing of potential and
Haggard P. Conscious intention and motor cognition. metabolic brain energy. J Neurochem 2007;
Trends Cogn Sci 2005; 9: 290-295. 103(5):1697-1708.
Hameroff S, Penrose R. Consciousness in the universe. A Korf J. The iso-energetic brain: the idea and some
review of the ‘Orch OR’ theory Phys Life Rev 2013; implications. Neuroscientist 2010; 16 (2): 118-124.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.plrev.2013.08.002 Korf J. The Mind as an Emerging Configuration of the
Hameroff S, Penrose R. Consciousness in the Universe: Personal Brain. Dial Phil Ment Neuro Sci 2012; 5(1):
Neuroscience, Quantum Space-Time Geometry and 21-24.
Orch OR Theory, In: Cosmology of Consciousness: Lamoreaux SK. Demonstration of the Casimir force in the
Quantum Physics& Neuroscience of Mind, Cosmology 0.6 to 6 micron range. Physical Review Letters 1997;
Science Publishers, Cambridge 2011: pp.51- 102. 78(1): 5-8.
Hameroff S. How quantum brain biology can rescue László E. The Akashic Field. New York: Dutton, 2007.
conscious free will. Frontiers in Integral Neurosciences Levin T. Holographic Trans-disciplinary Framework of
2012; doi: 10.3389/fnint.2012.00093 Consciousness: An Integrative Perspective. J
Hameroff S. More Neural Than Thou in: Toward a Science Consciousness Explor & Res 2011; 2(9):1385-1416.
of Consciousness II: The 1996 Tucson Discussions and
eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com
NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 199
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm
Libet B. Reflections on the interaction of the mind and http://bdigital.ufp.pt/bitstream/10284/2392/3/119-
brain. Progress Neurobiol 2006; 78(3-5): 322-326. 130.pdf
Libet, B. Mind Time: The Temporal Factor in Penrose R. The Emperor ’s New Mind. Oxford University
Consciousness. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1989.
Press, 2004. Pereira A, Furlan FA. Biomolecular Information, Brain
Lima SQ, Miesenböck G. Remote control of behavior Activity <nd Cognitive Function. In: ARBS Annual Rev
through genetically targeted photostimulation of of Biomedical Sciences 2007; 9: 12-29.
neurons. Cell 2005; 121(1): 141–52. Pereira A. The quantum mind/classical problem.
Lloyd S. Quantum coherence in biological systems. NeuroQuantology 2003; 1: 94-118.
Journal of Physics: Conference Series 2011; 302: Persinger MA, Lavallee CF. Theoretical and experimental
012037 doi:10.1088/1742-6596/302/1/012037. evidence of macroscopic evidence between human
Ma XS, Zotter S, Kofler J, Ursin R, Jennewein T and brain activity and photon emission: implications for
Brukner C. et al. Experimental delayed-choice quantum consciousness and future applications. J of
entanglement swapping. Nat Phys 2012; 8:480-485. Consciousness Exploration & Research 2010; 1:785-
Marshall I N. Consciousness and Bose-Einstein 807.
condensates. New Ideas in Psychology 1989; 7:73-83. Pessa E, Vitiello G. Quantum noise, entanglement and
Martin F, Carminati F, Carminati GG. Quantum chaos in the quantum field theory of mind/brain
information theory to unconscious and consciousness. states. Mind and Matter 2003; 1: 59-79.
NeuroQuantology 2013; 12: 16-33. Pezzulo G, Barsalou L W, Cangelosi A, Fischer MH, McRae
Mavromatos NE, Nanopoulos M. Non-critical string K, Spivey MJ. The mechanics of embodiment: a dialog
theory formulation of microtubule dynamics and on embodiment and computational modeling. Front
quantum aspects of brain function 1995; Psychol 2011; 2:5.
http://cds.cern.ch/record/282463/files/9505401.pdf Pothos EM Busemayer JR. Formalizing heuristics in
McFadden J. Conscious Electromagnetic Field Theory. decision-making: a quantum probability perspective.
NeuroQuantology, 2007; 5: 262-270. Front Psychology 2011; 2: 289. doi:
Megidish E, Halevy A, Shacham T, Dvir T, Dovrat L and 10.3389/fpsyg.2011.1100289
Eisenberg HS. Entanglement Between Photons that Pribram KH, Carlton EH. Holonomic brain theory in
have never coexisted. Phys Rev Lett 2013; 110: 210403. imaging and object perception. Acta Psychologica
Meijer DKF and Korf J. Quantum modeling of the mental 1986; 63: 175-180.
state: the concept of a cyclic mental workspace. Pribram KH. The cognitive revolution and mind/brain
Syntropy Journal 2013; (1), pp 1-41 issues. American Psychologist 1986; 41: 507-520.
http://www.lifeenergyscience.it/english/2013-eng-1- Primas H. Complementarity of mind and matter. In:
1.pdf Recasting Reality, Berlin. Springer 2009; 171-209.
Meijer DKF. Information: what do you mean? Syntropy Primas H. Time-entanglement between mind and matter.
Journal 2013 a; (3):1-49. Mind & Matter 2003; 1: 81-119.
Meijer DKF. Immortality: Myth or becoming Reality ? Pross A. The evolutionary origin of biological function and
Syntropy Journal 2013b; (3): 166-203. complexity. Mol Evol 2013; 76(4):185-91
http://www.lifeenergyscience.it/english/2013-eng-3- Roitberg A, Gerber RB, Elber R and Ratner MA. An-
04.pdf harmonic wave functions of proteins: quantum self-
Meijer DKF. The Information Universe. On the missing consistent field calculations of BPTI. Science 1995; 268
link in concepts on the architecture of reality. Syntropy (5315): 1319-1322.
Journal 2012; 1:1-64 Rovelli C, Smolin L. Spin networks in quantum gravity.
http://www.sintropia.it/english/2012-eng-1-1.pdf Physical Review D 1995; 52(10): 5743-5759.
Melkikh AV. Biological complexity, quantum coherent Rovelli C. Relational Quantum Mechanics. Int J of Theor
states and the problem of efficient transmission of Phys 1996;35: 16-37.
information inside a cell. BioSystems 2013; 111: 190-8 Roy S, Kafatos M. Quantum processes and Functional
Melkikh AV. Quantum field theory solves the problem of Geometry: New perspectives in Brain dynamics. Forma
the collapse of the wave function. 2013; 2004; 19: 69-84.
http://arxiv.org/abs/1311.0205 Sahu S, Hirata K, Fujita D, Ghosh S and Bandyopadhyay
Menini A, Picco C, Firestain S. Quantal-like current A. Radio-frequency induced ultrafast assembly of
fluctuations induced by odorants in olfactory receptor microtubules and their length-independent electronic
cells. Nature 1995, 373: 435-437. properties. Nature Mater 2012;
Milloni PW and Shi ML. Casimir forces. Contemporary Salari V, Rahnama M and Tuszynski J A. On the
Physics 1992; 33: 313-322. Theoretical Possibility of Quantum Visual Information
Milloni, PW. The quantum vacuum: an introduction to Transfer to the Human Brain. 2010;
quantum electrodynamics. Boston: Academic Press, http://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/0809/0809.0008.p
1994. df
Mitchell ED and Staretz R. The quantum hologram and Samal MK. Speculations on a Unified Theory of Matter
the nature of consciousness. Journal of Cosmology and Mind. 2001; arXiv:physics/0111035 [physics.gen-
2011; 14:1-35. ph]
Nagel T. Mind and Cosmos. Oxford University Press , Sarfatti J. Retrocausality and signal nonlocality in
2012. consciousness and cosmology. J Cosmol 2011; 14.
Nicolescu B. Levels of Complexity and Levels of Reality. In (Online).
The Emergence of Complexity in Mathematics, Schrödinger E. What is Life? Mind and Matter. Cambridge
Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, Proceedings of the University Press, 1944/1986.
Plenary Session of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, Schwartz JM, Stapp HP, Beauregard M. Quantum physics
27–31 October 1992. See also in 2011: in neuroscience and psychology: a neurophysical

eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com

NeuroQuantology | June 2014 | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Page 180-200 200
Meijer DKF., Cyclic information flow in a quantum physical realm
model of mind–brain interaction. Phil Trans R Soc B Vannini A, Di Corpo U. Quantum Models of
2005; doi:10.1098/rstb.2004.1598:1-19. Consciousness. Quantum Biosystems 2008; 1(2): 165-
Searle JR. Dualism Revisited. J Physiology (Paris) 2007; 184.
101: 168-178. Vattay G, Kauffman S, Niiranen S. Quantum biology on
Shor WP. Scheme for reducing decoherence in quantum the edge of quantum chaos. 2012; arXiv:1202.6433
computer memory. AT&T Bell Laboratories, 1995. [cond-mat.dis-nn]
http://journals.aps.org/pra/abstract/10.1103/PhysRev Vedral V. Decoding Reality, University Oxford Press,
A.52.R2493 Oxford, U.K, 2010.
Smith CUM. The ‘hard problem’ and the quantum Velmans M. Is human information processing conscious?
physicists: Part 2. Modern times. Brain Cogn 2009; Behav Brain Sci 1991; 14: 651-669.
71:54-63. Velmans, M. Understanding Consciousness. London:
Smolin L. Atoms of Space and Time. Sci Am Feb 2004; Routledge, 2000.
pp.43-52. Vicari G. Beyond Conceptual Dualism: Ontology of
Smythies J. Space. Time and Consciousness. J consciousness, mental causation, and holism in John R
Consciousness Studies 2003; 10: 47-56. Searle’s Philosophy of mind. Value Inquiry Book
Soon CS, Brass M, Heinze HJ, Haynes JD. Unconscious Series. Amsterdam, New York, NY Rudolphi, 2009.
determinants of free decisions in the human brain. Nat Vimal RLP. Proto-experiences and subjective
Neurosci 2008; 11: 543-545. experiences:classical and quantum concepts. J
Spivey MJ. The continuity of mind. New York Oxford Integrative Neurosci 2008; 7:49-73.
University Press, 2007. Vitiello G. Dissipation and memory capacity in the
Spivey MJ. The spatial intersection of minds. Cogn Process quantum brain model. Int J Modern Physics B 1995; 9:
2012; 13 (Suppl 1): S343-346. doi: 10.1007/s10339- 973-989.
012-0520-6. Von Bertalanffy L. An Outline of General System Theory,
Stapp HP. Mind, Matter and Quantum Mechanics, Berlin- Brit J Philosophy Science 1950; 1: 139-164.
Heidelberg: Springer-Verlag, 2009. Vos MH, Rappaport J, Lambry JCh, Breton J, Martin JL.
Stapp HP. Reply to a critic: Mind efforts, quantum zeno Visualization of coherent nuclear motion in a
effect and environmental decoherence. membrane protein by femtosecond laser spectroscopy.
NeuroQuantology 2012; 10: 601 -605. Nature 1986; 363:320-325.
Suarez A. Entanglement and time. arXiv:quant- Wolf FA. The timing of conscious experience: a causality-
ph/0311004v1, 2 Nov, 2003; http://lib-arxiv- violating, two-valued, transactional interpretation of
008.serverfarm.cornell.edu/pdf/quant- subjective antedating and spatial-temporal projection.
ph/0311004.pdf J Sci Explor 1998; 12: 511–542.
Sutherland R J. Causally symmetric Bohm model. 2006; Woolf NJ, Hameroff SR. A quantum approach to visual
http://arxiv.org/ftp/quant- consciousness. Trends Cogn Sciences 2001; 5:472-478.
ph/papers/0601/0601095.pdf
Tarlaci S. A Historical View of the Relation between
Quantum Mechanics and the Brain. NeuroQuantology
2010; 8: 120-136.
Tegmark M. The importance of quantum decoherence in
brain processes. Physica Rev E 2000; 61: 4194-4206.
Thompson E and Varela FJ. Radical embodiment: neural
dynamics and consciousness. Trends in Cognitive
Sciences 2001; 5(10): 418-425.
Tononi G. An information integration theory of
consciousness. Trends in Cognitive Sciences 2004; 5:
472-478.
Trueblood JS, Busemeyer JR. A quantum probability
model of causal reasoning. Front Psychology 2012; 3:
138. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg. 2012.00138.
Tsai HC, Zhang F, Adamantidis A, et al. Phasic firing in
dopaminergic neurons is sufficient for behavioral
conditioning. Science 2009; 324 (5930): 1080-1084.
Turennout M, Hagoort P, Brown C M. Brain activity
during speaking: from syntax to phonology in 40
milliseconds. Science 1998; 280: 572-574
Tuszynski JA, Woolf N. The Emerging Physics of
Consciousness. Springer-Verlag, 2010.
Ullman S. Sequence seeking and counter streams: A model
for information processing in the cortex. MIT artificial
intelligence laboratory, 1991;
http://dspace.mit.edu/bitstream/handle/1721.1/6574/
AIM-1311.pdf?sequence
Van Petten C, Coulson S, Rubin S, Plante E and Parks M.
Time course of word identification and semantic
integration in spoken language. J Exp Psychol Learn
Mem Cogn 1999; 25: 394-417.

eISSN 1303-5150 www.neuroquantology.com