Algorithm Development for Neurorehabilitation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial develops technology to control devices like computers or wheelchairs using brain and muscle signals. It tests the effectiveness of different sensors in capturing these signals when participants perform or imagine movements and speech. Participants will engage in experimental tasks with non-invasive activity recordings. The study seeks healthy participants who speak English and do not have neurological conditions causing paralysis. Joining this trial can help create better assistive devices for people with physical challenges. As an unphased trial, this study offers the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these non-invasive activity recordings are safe?
Research has shown that non-invasive methods like EEG and EMG are generally safe for people. EEG measures brain activity, while EMG records muscle activity. Studies indicate these techniques carry few risks and are well-tolerated. For instance, EEG and EMG are often used in medical tests without causing harm.
Other methods, such as fNIRS and eye tracking, are also non-invasive. They measure blood flow in the brain and eye movement, respectively. Many studies have used these techniques without serious side effects.
Participants in similar studies have found these methods safe and usually comfortable. Since the trial does not involve testing a new drug, the risk is minimal. Participants can stop at any time if they feel uncomfortable. Overall, these non-invasive techniques are safe and have been used in many studies with good results.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these experimental tasks in neurorehabilitation because they use non-invasive techniques to gain insights into brain and muscle activity. Unlike traditional rehabilitation methods that might involve more invasive procedures or medications, these tasks utilize tools like EEG (electroencephalography), EMG (electromyography), and fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy) to monitor activity without discomfort. This approach aims to develop algorithms that can enhance recovery by providing detailed feedback on neurological function in real-time. This could lead to more personalized and effective rehabilitation strategies.
What evidence suggests that this protocol is effective for neurorehabilitation?
Research shows that non-invasive methods like EEG (which records brain activity) and EMG (which records muscle activity) aid in neurorehabilitation. In this trial, healthy participants will perform experimental tasks while researchers record non-invasive activity, which may include EEG, EMG, IMUs, fNIRS, eye gaze, or pupillometry. Studies have found that these methods, when used with brain-computer interfaces, may improve movement, especially after a stroke or brain injury. Training with video games and robotic assistance has also proven effective in enhancing motor skills. Reviews of multiple studies suggest that combining brain stimulation with robot-assisted training can significantly enhance walking ability. Overall, these approaches show promise in aiding recovery and improving motor skills during rehabilitation.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jonathan Kao, PhD
Principal Investigator
UCLA Neural Engineering and Computation Lab
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with functional movement disorders who are interested in contributing to research on restoring complex movements after paralysis. Participants should be willing to perform tasks while being monitored by non-invasive recording devices.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimentation
Participants perform tasks while non-invasive activity is recorded, including EEG, EMG, and other signals.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for performance and safety after experimentation
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Experimental Tasks with Non-invasive Activity Recordings
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Los Angeles
Lead Sponsor
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Collaborator