Brain-Computer Interface for Neurodegenerative Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new communication device for individuals who have difficulty moving and speaking. The device, called AAC-BCI, enables communication using brain signals instead of direct touch. It targets those who cannot speak well enough to meet daily needs and already use a speech device. Participants need a tech-savvy support person at home to assist with setup and ensure smooth operation. The trial evaluates the device's performance in real-life settings, focusing on ease of use, reliability, and comfort. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could significantly enhance communication for those with speech difficulties.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this AAC-BCI device is safe for users with minimal movement?
Studies have shown that AAC-BCI devices can help people with severe speech and physical impairments communicate. Research indicates these devices can support communication for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases who have limited movement. However, they might not work well for everyone.
The AAC-BCI device tested in this trial targets people with limited movement who could benefit from technology that aids expression. Although no clear data exists on severe side effects, researchers continue to study the device's safety and effectiveness. Studies suggest the device is generally well-tolerated, but individual experiences may vary.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
The AAC-BCI device is unique because it combines brain-computer interface technology with augmentative and alternative communication tools, offering a new way for individuals with severe movement disabilities to communicate. Unlike traditional communication aids that rely on physical input, this device translates brain signals directly into actions, allowing for hands-free communication. Researchers are excited about its potential to improve user satisfaction, performance, and reliability, making it a promising option for those who find current devices inadequate or challenging to use.
What evidence suggests that the AAC-BCI device is effective for neurodegenerative disease?
Research shows that the AAC-BCI device, used in this trial, can assist people with neurodegenerative diseases who have severe movement difficulties. Studies have demonstrated that this device improves communication by using brain signals to control a computer. Real-world tests have successfully enabled individuals with limited movement to communicate more effectively. Reviews of similar devices highlight their potential to enhance communication for those with severe disabilities. These devices are designed to be reliable and comfortable for home use.25678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Katharine J Hill, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or nervous system disorders who have limited movement and could benefit from technology that helps them communicate. Participants will use an AAC-BCI device at home, supported by a team including a consultant, speech therapist, and in-home support person.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training and Calibration
Initial set-up, calibration, and training sessions with AAC-BCI device, including EEG and logfile data collection
Home Use and Monitoring
Participants use the AAC-BCI device at home for at least 10 hours a week, with monthly home visits and weekly follow-up calls for data collection
Follow-up
Participants complete a survey to rate the overall commercial readiness of the AAC-BCI device
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- AAC-BCI device
Trial Overview
The study tests the readiness of an AAC-BCI device for market release by assessing its usage, performance, reliability, and comfort when used by patients in their homes. It involves both patient feedback and objective performance data collection.
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Participants with severe movement disabilities will use the augmentative and alternative communication, brain-computer interface (AAC-BCI) device at least 10 hours a week in their homes receiving supported from a caregiver, speech language pathologist and consultant and rate the intervention on user satisfaction, performance, reliability, comfort and overall readiness for commercialization.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Katharine Katya Joan Hill
Lead Sponsor
Kendrea Garand
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Collaborator
PRC
Collaborator
University of Michigan
Collaborator
Citations
A systematic review of research on augmentative and ...
Face stimuli effectively prevent brain-computer interface inefficiency in patients with neurodegenerative disease. Clin. Neurophysiol. 124 ...
Real World Testing of a Brain-Computer Interface | ...
Individuals with severe communication disabilities and minimal movement impairment. ... Neurodegenerative Diseases. TDP-43 Proteinopathies. Neuromuscular Diseases.
Brain-Computer Interface for Neurodegenerative Disease
This trial is for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or nervous system disorders who have limited movement and could benefit from technology that helps ...
A systematic review of research on augmentative and ...
Augmentative and alternative communication brain-computer interface (AAC-BCI) ... in patients with neurodegenerative disease. Clin. Neurophysiol.
Considering Augmentative and Alternative Communication ...
Face stimuli effectively prevent brain–computer interface inefficiency in patients with neurodegenerative disease. Clinical Neurophysiology, 124(5), 893–900 ...
A systematic review of research on augmentative and ...
Results suggest that AAC-BCI systems show promise for supporting communication for people with SSPI, but they remain ineffective for some individuals.
7.
frontiersin.org
frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2022.952380/fullA systematic review of research on augmentative and ...
Face stimuli effectively prevent brain-computer interface inefficiency in patients with neurodegenerative disease. Clin. Neurophysiol. 124 ...
Systematic Review of Research on AAC Brain-Computer ...
This systematic review shows where things stand with AAC-BCI research for people with disabilities, and what researchers can do better in the future.
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