1
|
Keough JR, Irvine B, Kelly D, Wrightson J, Comaduran Marquez D, Kinney-Lang E, Kirton A. Fatigue in children using motor imagery and P300 brain-computer interfaces. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2024; 21:61. [PMID: 38658998 PMCID: PMC11040843 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-024-01349-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-computer interface (BCI) technology offers children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy unique opportunities for communication, environmental exploration, learning, and game play. Research in adults demonstrates a negative impact of fatigue on BCI enjoyment, while effects on BCI performance are variable. To date, there have been no pediatric studies of BCI fatigue. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of two different BCI paradigms, motor imagery and visual P300, on the development of self-reported fatigue and an electroencephalography (EEG) biomarker of fatigue in typically developing children. METHODS Thirty-seven typically-developing school-aged children were recruited to a prospective, crossover study. Participants attended three sessions: (A) motor imagery-BCI, (B) visual P300-BCI, and (C) video viewing (control). The motor imagery task involved an imagined left- or right-hand squeeze. The P300 task involved attending to one square on a 3 × 3 grid during a random single flash sequence. Each paradigm had respective calibration periods and a similar visual counting game. Primary outcomes were self-reported fatigue and the power of the EEG alpha band both collected during resting-state periods pre- and post-task. Self-reported fatigue was measured using a 10-point visual analog scale. EEG alpha band power was calculated as the integrated power spectral density from 8 to 12 Hz of the EEG spectrum. RESULTS Thirty-two children completed the protocol (age range 7-16, 63% female). Self-reported fatigue and EEG alpha band power increased across all sessions (F(1,155) = 33.9, p < 0.001; F = 5.0(1,149), p = 0.027 respectively). No differences in fatigue development were observed between session types. There was no correlation between self-reported fatigue and EEG alpha band power change. BCI performance varied between participants and paradigms as expected but was not associated with self-reported fatigue or EEG alpha band power. CONCLUSION Short periods (30-mintues) of BCI use can increase self-reported fatigue and EEG alpha band power to a similar degree in children performing motor imagery and P300 BCI paradigms. Performance was not associated with our measures of fatigue; the impact of fatigue on useability and enjoyment is unclear. Our results reflect the variability of fatigue and the BCI experience more broadly in children and warrant further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Rg Keough
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Brian Irvine
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dion Kelly
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - James Wrightson
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Daniel Comaduran Marquez
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Eli Kinney-Lang
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Adam Kirton
- Departments of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Buccilli B. Exploring new horizons: Emerging therapeutic strategies for pediatric stroke. Exp Neurol 2024; 374:114701. [PMID: 38278205 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Pediatric stroke presents unique challenges, and optimizing treatment strategies is essential for improving outcomes in this vulnerable population. This review aims to provide an overview of new, innovative, and potential treatments for pediatric stroke, with a primary objective to stimulate further research in this field. Our review highlights several promising approaches in the realm of pediatric stroke management, including but not limited to stem cell therapy and robotic rehabilitation. These innovative interventions offer new avenues for enhancing functional recovery, reducing long-term disability, and tailoring treatments to individual patient needs. The findings of this review underscore the importance of ongoing research and development of innovative treatments in pediatric stroke. These advancements hold significant clinical relevance, offering the potential to improve the lives of children affected by stroke by enhancing the precision, efficacy, and accessibility of therapeutic interventions. Embracing these innovations is essential in our pursuit of better outcomes and a brighter future for pediatric stroke care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Buccilli
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Neurosurgery, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kirton A. A Moral Imperative to Advance Brain-Computer Interfaces for Children With Neurological Disability. JAMA Pediatr 2023; 177:751-752. [PMID: 37338891 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.1744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
This Viewpoint describes the need to expand use of brain-computer interface systems to children with neurological disabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kirton
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jadavji Z, Kirton A, Metzler MJ, Zewdie E. BCI-activated electrical stimulation in children with perinatal stroke and hemiparesis: A pilot study. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1006242. [PMID: 37007682 PMCID: PMC10063823 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1006242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundPerinatal stroke (PS) causes most hemiparetic cerebral palsy (CP) and results in lifelong disability. Children with severe hemiparesis have limited rehabilitation options. Brain computer interface- activated functional electrical stimulation (BCI-FES) of target muscles may enhance upper extremity function in hemiparetic adults. We conducted a pilot clinical trial to assess the safety and feasibility of BCI-FES in children with hemiparetic CP.MethodsThirteen participants (mean age = 12.2 years, 31% female) were recruited from a population-based cohort. Inclusion criteria were: (1) MRI-confirmed PS, (2) disabling hemiparetic CP, (3) age 6–18 years, (4) informed consent/assent. Those with neurological comorbidities or unstable epilepsy were excluded. Participants attended two BCI sessions: training and rehabilitation. They wore an EEG-BCI headset and two forearm extensor stimulation electrodes. Participants’ imagination of wrist extension was classified on EEG, after which muscle stimulation and visual feedback were provided when the correct visualization was detected.ResultsNo serious adverse events or dropouts occurred. The most common complaints were mild headache, headset discomfort and muscle fatigue. Children ranked the experience as comparable to a long car ride and none reported as unpleasant. Sessions lasted a mean of 87 min with 33 min of stimulation delivered. Mean classification accuracies were (M = 78.78%, SD = 9.97) for training and (M = 73.48, SD = 12.41) for rehabilitation. Mean Cohen’s Kappa across rehabilitation trials was M = 0.43, SD = 0.29, range = 0.019–1.00, suggesting BCI competency.ConclusionBrain computer interface-FES was well -tolerated and feasible in children with hemiparesis. This paves the way for clinical trials to optimize approaches and test efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeanna Jadavji
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Adam Kirton
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Alberta Children’s Hospital, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Megan J. Metzler
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Alberta Children’s Hospital, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ephrem Zewdie
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Ephrem Zewdie,
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Floreani ED, Rowley D, Kelly D, Kinney-Lang E, Kirton A. On the feasibility of simple brain-computer interface systems for enabling children with severe physical disabilities to explore independent movement. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:1007199. [PMID: 36337857 PMCID: PMC9633669 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.1007199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Children with severe physical disabilities are denied their fundamental right to move, restricting their development, independence, and participation in life. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) could enable children with complex physical needs to access power mobility (PM) devices, which could help them move safely and independently. BCIs have been studied for PM control for adults but remain unexamined in children. In this study, we explored the feasibility of BCI-enabled PM control for children with severe physical disabilities, assessing BCI performance, standard PM skills and tolerability of BCI. Materials and methods Patient-oriented pilot trial. Eight children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy attended two sessions where they used a simple, commercial-grade BCI system to activate a PM trainer device. Performance was assessed through controlled activation trials (holding the PM device still or activating it upon verbal and visual cueing), and basic PM skills (driving time, number of activations, stopping) were assessed through distance trials. Setup and calibration times, headset tolerability, workload, and patient/caregiver experience were also evaluated. Results All participants completed the study with favorable tolerability and no serious adverse events or technological challenges. Average control accuracy was 78.3 ± 12.1%, participants were more reliably able to activate (95.7 ± 11.3%) the device than hold still (62.1 ± 23.7%). Positive trends were observed between performance and prior BCI experience and age. Participants were able to drive the PM device continuously an average of 1.5 meters for 3.0 s. They were able to stop at a target 53.1 ± 23.3% of the time, with significant variability. Participants tolerated the headset well, experienced mild-to-moderate workload and setup/calibration times were found to be practical. Participants were proud of their performance and both participants and families were eager to participate in future power mobility sessions. Discussion BCI-enabled PM access appears feasible in disabled children based on evaluations of performance, tolerability, workload, and setup/calibration. Performance was comparable to existing pediatric BCI literature and surpasses established cut-off thresholds (70%) of “effective” BCI use. Participants exhibited PM skills that would categorize them as “emerging operational learners.” Continued exploration of BCI-enabled PM for children with severe physical disabilities is justified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica D. Floreani
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Erica D. Floreani,
| | - Danette Rowley
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dion Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Eli Kinney-Lang
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Adam Kirton
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
A Review on Recent Advances of Cerebral Palsy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:2622310. [PMID: 35941906 PMCID: PMC9356840 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2622310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
This narrative review summarizes the latest advances in cerebral palsy and identifies where more research is required. Several studies on cerebral palsy were analyzed to generate a general idea of the prevalence of, risk factors associated with, and classification of cerebral palsy (CP). Different classification systems used for the classification of CP on a functional basis were also analyzed. Diagnosis systems used along with the prevention techniques were discussed. State-of-the-art treatment strategies for CP were also analyzed. Statistical distribution was performed based on the selected studies. Prevalence was found to be 2-3/1000 lives; the factors that can be correlated are gestational age and birth weight. The risk factors identified were preconception, prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal categories. According to the evidence, CP is classified into spastic (80%), dyskinetic (15%), and ataxic (5%) forms. Diagnosis approaches were based on clinical investigation and neurological examinations that include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), biomarkers, and cranial ultrasound. The treatment procedures found were medical and surgical interventions, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, umbilical milking, nanomedicine, and stem cell therapy. Technological advancements in CP were also discussed. CP is the most common neuromotor disability with a prevalence of 2-3/1000 lives. The highest contributing risk factor is prematurity and being underweight. Several preventions and diagnostic techniques like MRI and ultrasound were being used. Treatment like cord blood treatment nanomedicine and stem cell therapy needs to be investigated further in the future to apply in clinical practice. Future studies are indicated in the context of technological advancements among cerebral palsy children.
Collapse
|
7
|
Floreani ED, Kelly D, Rowley D, Irvine B, Kinney-Lang E, Kirton A. Iterative Development of a Software to Facilitate Independent Home Use of BCI Technologies for Children with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2022; 2022:3361-3364. [PMID: 36086125 DOI: 10.1109/embc48229.2022.9871105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are emerging as a new solution for children with severe disabilities to interact with the world. However, BCI technologies have yet to reach end-users in their daily lives due to significant translational gaps. To address these gaps, we applied user-centered design principles to establish a home BCI program for children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy. This work describes the technical development of the software we designed to facilitate BCI use at home. Children and their families were involved at each design stage to evaluate and provide feedback. Since deployment, seven families have successfully used the system independently at home and continue to use BCI at home to further enable participation and independence for their children. Clinical relevance- The design and successful implementation of user-centered software for home use will both inform on the feasibility of BCI as a long-term access solution for children with neurological disabilities as well as decrease barriers of accessibility and availability of BCI technologies for end-users.
Collapse
|
8
|
Jadavji Z, Zewdie E, Kelly D, Kinney-Lang E, Robu I, Kirton A. Establishing a Clinical Brain-Computer Interface Program for Children With Severe Neurological Disabilities. Cureus 2022; 14:e26215. [PMID: 35891842 PMCID: PMC9307353 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Children with severe motor impairment but intact cognition are deprived of fundamental human rights. Quadriplegic cerebral palsy is the most common scenario where rehabilitation options remain limited. Brain-computer interfaces (BCI) represent a potential solution, but pediatric populations have been neglected. Direct engagement of children and families could provide meaningful opportunities while informing program development. We describe a patient-centered, clinical, non-invasive pediatric BCI program. Methods: Eligible children were identified within a population-based, tertiary care children’s hospital. Criteria included 1) age six to 18 years, 2) severe physical disability (non-ambulatory, minimal hand use), 3) severely limited speech, and 4) evidence of grade 1 cognitive capacity. After initial screening for BCI competency, participants attended regular sessions, attempting commercially available and customized systems to play computer games, control devices, and attempt communication. Results: We report the first 10 participants (median 11 years, range 6-16, 60% male). Over 334 hours of participation, there were no serious adverse events. BCI training was well tolerated, with favorable feedback from children and parents. All but one participant demonstrated the ability to perform BCI tasks. The majority performed well, using motor imagery based tasks for games and entertainment. Difficulties were most significant using P300, visual evoked potential based paradigms where maintenance of attention was challenging. Children and families expressed interest in continuing and informing program development. Conclusions: Patient-centered clinical BCI programs are feasible for children with severe disabilities. Carefully selected participants can often learn quickly to perform meaningful tasks on readily available systems. Patient and family motivation and engagement appear high.
Collapse
|
9
|
Huggins JE, Krusienski D, Vansteensel MJ, Valeriani D, Thelen A, Stavisky S, Norton JJS, Nijholt A, Müller-Putz G, Kosmyna N, Korczowski L, Kapeller C, Herff C, Halder S, Guger C, Grosse-Wentrup M, Gaunt R, Dusang AN, Clisson P, Chavarriaga R, Anderson CW, Allison BZ, Aksenova T, Aarnoutse E. Workshops of the Eighth International Brain-Computer Interface Meeting: BCIs: The Next Frontier. BRAIN-COMPUTER INTERFACES 2022; 9:69-101. [PMID: 36908334 PMCID: PMC9997957 DOI: 10.1080/2326263x.2021.2009654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Eighth International Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) Meeting was held June 7-9th, 2021 in a virtual format. The conference continued the BCI Meeting series' interactive nature with 21 workshops covering topics in BCI (also called brain-machine interface) research. As in the past, workshops covered the breadth of topics in BCI. Some workshops provided detailed examinations of specific methods, hardware, or processes. Others focused on specific BCI applications or user groups. Several workshops continued consensus building efforts designed to create BCI standards and increase the ease of comparisons between studies and the potential for meta-analysis and large multi-site clinical trials. Ethical and translational considerations were both the primary topic for some workshops or an important secondary consideration for others. The range of BCI applications continues to expand, with more workshops focusing on approaches that can extend beyond the needs of those with physical impairments. This paper summarizes each workshop, provides background information and references for further study, presents an overview of the discussion topics, and describes the conclusion, challenges, or initiatives that resulted from the interactions and discussion at the workshop.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Huggins
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States 325 East Eisenhower, Room 3017; Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108-5744, 734-936-7177
| | - Dean Krusienski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23219
| | - Mariska J Vansteensel
- UMC Utrecht Brain Center, Dept of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Antonia Thelen
- eemagine Medical Imaging Solutions GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - James J S Norton
- National Center for Adaptive Neurotechnologies, US Department of Veterans Affairs, 113 Holland Ave, Albany, NY 12208
| | - Anton Nijholt
- Faculty EEMCS, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Gernot Müller-Putz
- Institute of Neural Engineering, GrazBCI Lab, Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 16/4, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Nataliya Kosmyna
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Media Lab, E14-548, Cambridge, MA 02139, Unites States
| | | | | | - Christian Herff
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Christoph Guger
- g.tec medical engineering GmbH/Guger Technologies OG, Austria, Sierningstrasse 14, 4521 Schiedlberg, Austria, +43725122240-0
| | - Moritz Grosse-Wentrup
- Research Group Neuroinformatics, Faculty of Computer Science, Vienna Cognitive Science Hub, Data Science @ Uni Vienna University of Vienna
| | - Robert Gaunt
- Rehab Neural Engineering Labs, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA, 3520 5th Ave, Suite 300, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, 412-383-1426
| | - Aliceson Nicole Dusang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, Rehabilitation R&D Service, Providence, RI
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | - Ricardo Chavarriaga
- IEEE Standards Association Industry Connections group on neurotechnologies for brain-machine interface, Center for Artificial Intelligence, School of Engineering, ZHAW-Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Switzerland, Switzerland
| | - Charles W Anderson
- Department of Computer Science, Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosience Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
| | - Brendan Z Allison
- Dept. of Cognitive Science, Mail Code 0515, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, United States, 619-534-9754
| | - Tetiana Aksenova
- University Grenoble Alpes, CEA, LETI, Clinatec, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - Erik Aarnoutse
- UMC Utrecht Brain Center, Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Floreani ED, Rowley D, Khan N, Kelly D, Robu I, Kirton A, Kinney-Lang E. Unlocking Independence: Exploring Movement with Brain-Computer Interface for Children with Severe Physical Disabilities. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2021; 2021:5864-5867. [PMID: 34892453 DOI: 10.1109/embc46164.2021.9630578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Children with severe physical disabilities are often unable to independently explore their environments, further contributing to complex developmental delays. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) could be a novel access method to power mobility for children who struggle to use existing alternate access technologies, allowing them to reap the developmental, social, and psychological benefits of independent mobility. In this pilot study we demonstrated that children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy can use a simple BCI system to explore movement with a power mobility device. Four children were able to use the BCI to drive forward at least 7m, although more practice is needed to achieve more efficient driving skills through sustained BCI activations.
Collapse
|