2025 |
Peters, Betts; Celik, Basak; Gaines, Dylan; Galvin-McLaughlin, Deirdre; Imbiriba, Tales; Kinsella, Michelle; Klee, Daniel; Lawhead, Matthew; Memmott, Tab; Smedemark-Margulies, Niklas; others, In: Journal of Neural Engineering, 2025. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{peters2025rsvp, Objective. The RSVP Keyboard is a non-implantable, event-related potential-based brain-computer interface (BCI) system designed to support communication access for people with severe speech and physical impairments. Here we introduce Inquiry Preview, a new RSVP Keyboard interface incorporating switch input for users with some voluntary motor function, and describe its effects on typing performance and other outcomes. Approach. Four individuals with disabilities participated in the collaborative design of possible switch input applications for the RSVP Keyboard, leading to the development of Inquiry Preview and a method of fusing switch input with language model and electroencephalography (EEG) evidence for typing. Twenty-four participants without disabilities and one potential end user with incomplete locked-in syndrome took part in two experiments investigating the effects of Inquiry Preview and two modes of switch input on typing accuracy and speed during a copy-spelling task. Main results. For participants without disabilities, Inquiry Preview and switch input tended to worsen typing performance compared to the standard RSVP Keyboard condition, with more consistent effects across participants for speed than for accuracy. However, there was considerable variability, with some participants demonstrating improved typing performance and better user experience with Inquiry Preview and switch input. Typing performance for the potential end user was comparable to that of participants without disabilities. He typed most quickly and accurately with Inquiry Preview and switch input and gave favorable user experience ratings to those conditions, but preferred standard RSVP Keyboard. Significance. Inquiry Preview is a novel multimodal interface for the RSVP Keyboard BCI, incorporating switch input as an additional control signal. Typing performance and user experience and preference varied widely across participants, reinforcing the need for flexible, customizable BCI systems that can adapt to individual users. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04468919. |
2024 |
Sultana, Mushfika; Jain, Osheen; Halder, Sebastian; Matran-Fernandez, Ana; Nawaz, Rab; Scherer, Reinhold; Chavarriaga, Ricardo; del R Millán, José; Perdikis, Serafeim Evaluating Dry EEG Technology Out of the Lab Conference 2024 IEEE International Conference on Metrology for eXtended Reality, Artificial Intelligence and Neural Engineering (MetroXRAINE), IEEE 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, Comparisons, DSI-24 @conference{sultana2024evaluating, Dry electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing the usability of non-invasive Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) systems. Recent advancements in dry helmets have demonstrated competitiveness in enabling EEG and BCI applications with state-of-the-art gel-based systems. In this study, we evaluate the performance and signal quality of a dry EEG cap for BCI applications in a large population. The assessment was conducted under extremely noisy conditions at a public exhibition, surrounded by numerous attendees and multiple sources of electromagnetic interference. Our analysis includes 100 participants from the Mental Work exhibition and assesses the acquired signal's integrity through, Motor Imagery (MI) classification accuracy, the kurtosis of the raw signals and the deviation of the Power Spectral Density (PSD) spectra from the ideal curve. Results show that 56 participants achieved above chance-level single-sample accuracy, with even higher accuracy observed for peak performance. Frontal channels exhibited higher artifact presence, yet the overall signal quality was comparable to gel-based systems used in the authors' previous studies. These findings confirm the potential of dry EEG technology to enable BCI applications beyond the lab, facilitating everyday use in homes, clinics, and public spaces. |
Gwon, Daeun; Ahn, Minkyu Motor task-to-task transfer learning for motor imagery brain-computer interfaces Journal Article In: NeuroImage, pp. 120906, 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{gwon2024motor, Motor imagery (MI) is one of the popular control paradigms in the non-invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) field. MI-BCI generally requires users to conduct the imagination of movement (e.g., left or right hand) to collect training data for generating a classification model during the calibration phase. However, this calibration phase is generally time-consuming and tedious, as users conduct the imagination of hand movement several times without being given feedback for an extended period. This obstacle makes MI-BCI non user-friendly and hinders its use. On the other hand, motor execution (ME) and motor observation (MO) are relatively easier tasks, yield lower fatigue than MI, and share similar neural mechanisms to MI. However, few studies have integrated these three tasks into BCIs. In this study, we propose a new task-to-task transfer learning approach of 3-motor tasks (ME, MO, and MI) for building a better user-friendly MI-BCI. For this study, 28 subjects participated in 3-motor tasks experiment, and electroencephalography (EEG) was acquired. User opinions regarding the 3-motor tasks were also collected through questionnaire survey. The 3-motor tasks showed a power decrease in the alpha rhythm, known as event-related desynchronization, but with slight differences in the temporal patterns. In the classification analysis, the cross-validated accuracy (within-task) was 67.05 % for ME, 65.93 % for MI, and 73.16 % for MO on average. Consistently with the results, the subjects scored MI (3.16) as the most difficult task compared with MO (1.42) and ME (1.41), with p < 0.05. In the analysis of task-to-task transfer learning, where training and testing are performed using different task datasets, the ME–trained model yielded an accuracy of 65.93 % (MI test), which is statistically similar to the within-task accuracy (p > 0.05). The MO–trained model achieved an accuracy of 60.82 % (MI test). On the other hand, combining two datasets yielded interesting results. ME and 50 % of the MI–trained model (50-shot) classified MI with a 69.21 % accuracy, which outperformed the within-task accuracy (p < 0.05), and MO and 50 % of the MI–trained model showed an accuracy of 66.75 %. Of the low performers with a within-task accuracy of 70 % or less, 90 % (n = 21) of the subjects improved in training with ME, and 76.2 % (n = 16) improved in training with MO on the MI test at 50-shot. These results demonstrate that task-to-task transfer learning is possible and could be a promising approach to building a user-friendly training protocol in MI-BCI. |
Harel, Asaf; Shriki, Oren Task-guided attention increases non-linearity of steady-state visually evoked potentials Journal Article In: Journal of Neural Engineering, 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{harel2024task, Attention is a multifaceted cognitive process, with nonlinear dynamics playing a crucial role. In this study, we investigated the involvement of nonlinear processes in top-down visual attention by employing a contrast-modulated sequence of letters and numerals, encircled by a consistently flickering white square on a black background - a setup that generated steady-state visually evoked potentials. Nonlinear processes are recognized for eliciting and modulating the harmonics of constant frequencies. We examined the fundamental and harmonic frequencies of each stimulus to evaluate the underlying nonlinear dynamics during stimulus processing. In line with prior research, our findings indicate that the power spectrum density of EEG responses is influenced by both task presence and stimulus contrast. By utilizing the Rhythmic Entrainment Source Separation (RESS) technique, we discovered that actively searching for a target within a letter stream heightened the amplitude of the fundamental frequency and harmonics related to the background flickering stimulus. While the fundamental frequency amplitude remained unaffected by stimulus contrast, a lower contrast led to an increase in the second harmonic's amplitude. We assessed the relationship between the contrast response function and the nonlinear-based harmonic responses. Our findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the nonlinear processes impacting top-down visual attention while also providing insights into optimizing brain-computer interfaces. |
Cha, Seungwoo; Kim, Kyoung Tae; Chang, Won Kee; Paik, Nam-Jong; Choi, Ji Soo; Lim, Hyunmi; Kim, Won-Seok; Ku, Jeonghun Effect of Electroencephalography-based Motor Imagery Neurofeedback on Mu Suppression During Motor Attempt in Patients with Stroke Journal Article In: Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation , 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Neurofeedback, Stroke @article{cha2024effect, Objective The primary aims of this study were to explore the neurophysiological effects of motor imagery neurofeedback using electroencephalography (EEG), specifically focusing on mu suppression during serial motor attempts and assessing its potential benefits in patients with subacute stroke. Methods A total of 15 patients with hemiplegia following subacute ischemic stroke were prospectively enrolled in this randomized cross-over study. This study comprised two experiments: neurofeedback and sham. Each experiment included four blocks: three blocks of resting, grasp, resting, and intervention, followed by one block of resting and grasp. During the resting sessions, the participants fixated on a white cross on a black background for 2 minutes without moving their upper extremities. In the grasp sessions, the participants were instructed to grasp and release their paretic hand at a frequency of about 1 Hz for 3 minutes while fixating on the same white cross. During the intervention sessions, neurofeedback involved presenting a punching image with the affected upper limb corresponding to the mu suppression induced by imagined movement, while the sham involved mu suppression of other randomly selected participants 3 minutes. EEG data were recorded during the experiment, and data from C3/C4 and P3/P4 were used for analyses to compare the degree of mu suppression between the neurofeedback and sham conditions. Results Significant mu suppression was observed in the bilateral motor and parietal cortices during the neurofeedback intervention compared with the sham condition across serial sessions (p < 0.001). Following neurofeedback, the real grasping sessions showed progressive strengthening of mu suppression in the ipsilesional motor cortex and bilateral parietal cortices compared to those following sham (p < 0.05), an effect not observed in the contralesional motor cortex. Conclusion Motor imagery neurofeedback significantly enhances mu suppression in the ipsilesional motor and bilateral parietal cortices during motor attempts in patients with subacute stroke. These findings suggest that motor imagery neurofeedback could serve as a promising adjunctive therapy to enhance motor-related cortical activity and support motor rehabilitation in patients with stroke. |
Xu, Jihong; Chen, Tianran; Yan, Lirong Improvement Of An Untrained Brain-computer Interface System Combined With Target Recognition Proceedings Article In: 2024 16th International Conference on Electronics, Computers and Artificial Intelligence (ECAI), pp. 1–6, IEEE 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @inproceedings{xu2024improvement, In the current commonly used Steady State Visual Evoked Potential (SSVEP) paradigm, the stimuli are mostly white flashing blocks superimposed on a black background, which is monotonous and easy to cause subject fatigue with prolonged flashing stimuli. The stimulus paradigm is mostly divorced from the actual control environment, and lacks a direct connection with the control task. The mainstream classification algorithms usually analyze the data with a fixed window length, which is lack of generalizability to different subjects, and the classification performance index needs to be further improved. In this study, the SSVEP stimulus paradigm was improved by combining the YOLOv5 algorithm, which changed from the traditional black background to the actual control environment. It superimposed SSVEP stimulus blocks of different frequencies at each recognized target location. The stimulus paradigm was not stripped from the control scene, and the Filter Bank Criterion Correlation Analysis (FBCCA) algorithm was chosen to analyze it. The FBCCA algorithm was further improved by using a dynamic window strategy, which automatically adjusts the window length of each experiment according to the characteristics of each subject. This improves the versatility of the algorithm and increases the recognition accuracy and Information Transfer Rate (ITR). After the improvement, the offline experimental data were analyzed. The improved algorithm achieved an average accuracy of 87.08%, which was 17.29% higher than the original algorithm. Additionally, the average ITR was 74.28 bits/min, which was 36.51 bits/min higher than the original algorithm. |
Jeong, Chang Hyeon; Lim, Hyunmi; Lee, Jiye; Lee, Hye Sun; Ku, Jeonghun; Kang, Youn Joo In: Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol. 18, pp. 1373589, 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Neuromodulation @article{jeong2024attentional, Introduction: Brain computer interface-based action observation (BCI-AO) is a promising technique in detecting the user's cortical state of visual attention and providing feedback to assist rehabilitation. Peripheral nerve electrical stimulation (PES) is a conventional method used to enhance outcomes in upper extremity function by increasing activation in the motor cortex. In this study, we examined the effects of different pairings of peripheral nerve electrical stimulation (PES) during BCI-AO tasks and their impact on corticospinal plasticity. Materials and methods: Our innovative BCI-AO interventions decoded user's attentive watching during task completion. This process involved providing rewarding visual cues while simultaneously activating afferent pathways through PES. Fifteen stroke patients were included in the analysis. All patients underwent a 15 min BCI-AO program under four different experimental conditions: BCI-AO without PES, BCI-AO with continuous PES, BCI-AO with triggered PES, and BCI-AO with reverse PES application. PES was applied at the ulnar nerve of the wrist at an intensity equivalent to 120% of the sensory threshold and a frequency of 50 Hz. The experiment was conducted randomly at least 3 days apart. To assess corticospinal and peripheral nerve excitability, we compared pre and post-task (post 0, post 20 min) parameters of motor evoked potential and F waves under the four conditions in the muscle of the affected hand.The findings indicated that corticospinal excitability in the affected hemisphere was higher when PES was synchronously applied with AO training, using BCI during a state of attentive watching. In contrast, there was no effect on corticospinal activation when PES was applied continuously or in the reverse manner. This paradigm promoted corticospinal plasticity for up to 20 min after task completion. Importantly, the effect was more evident in patients over 65 years of age.The results showed that task-driven corticospinal plasticity was higher when PES was applied synchronously with a highly attentive brain state during the action observation task, compared to continuous or asynchronous application. This study provides insight into how optimized BCI technologies dependent on brain state used in conjunction with other rehabilitation training could enhance treatment-induced neural plasticity. |
Klee, Daniel; Memmott, Tab; Oken, Barry In: Signals, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 18–39, 2024. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-VR300 @article{klee2024effect, Brain responses to discrete stimuli are modulated when multiple stimuli are presented in sequence. These alterations are especially pronounced when the time course of an evoked response overlaps with responses to subsequent stimuli, such as in a rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) paradigm used to control a brain–computer interface (BCI). The present study explored whether the measurement or classification of select brain responses during RSVP would improve through application of an established technique for dealing with overlapping stimulus presentations, known as irregular or “jittered” stimulus onset interval (SOI). EEG data were collected from 24 healthy adult participants across multiple rounds of RSVP calibration and copy phrase tasks with varying degrees of SOI jitter. Analyses measured three separate brain signals sensitive to attention: N200, P300, and occipitoparietal alpha attenuation. Presentation jitter visibly reduced intrusion of the SSVEP, but in general, it did not positively or negatively affect attention effects, classification, or system performance. Though it remains unclear whether stimulus overlap is detrimental to BCI performance overall, the present study demonstrates that single-trial classification approaches may be resilient to rhythmic intrusions like SSVEP that appear in the averaged EEG. |
2023 |
Ferrisi, Leonardo M Optimizing an assistive Brain Computer Interface that uses Auditory Attention as Input Masters Thesis 2023. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @mastersthesis{ferrisi2023optimizing, Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs) allow individuals to operate technology using (typically consciously controllable) aspects of their brain activity. Auditory BCIs utilize principles of Auditory Event Related Potentials or Auditory Evoked Potentials as a reproducible controllable features that individuals can use to operate a BCI. These Auditory BCIs in their most basic format can allow users to answer yes or no questions by listening to either one auditory stimuli or the other. Current accuracy in intended response detection for these kinds of BCIs can be as good as mean accuracy of 77 % [5]. BCI research tends to optimize the computer side of the system however the ease of use for the human operating the system is an important point of consideration as well. This research project aimed to determine what factors make a human operator able to achieve the highest accuracy using a given previously successfully demonstrated classifier. This research project primarily sought to answer the questions; to what degree people can improve their accuracy in operating an Auditory BCI and what factors of the stimulus used can be altered to achieve this. The results of this project, obtained through the data collected from six individuals, found that slower stimuli speeds for eliciting Auditory Event Related Potentials were significantly better at achieving higher prediction accuracies compared to faster stimulus speeds. The amount of time spent using the system appeared to result in diminishing returns in accuracy regardless of condition however not before an initial spike in greater classifier prediction accuracy for the second condition run on each subject. Although further research is needed to gain more conclusive evidence for or against the hypothesis, the results of this research may be able suggest that individuals can improve their performance using Auditory BCIs with practice at optimal parameters albeit within a given time frame before experiencing diminishing returns. These findings would stand to provide benefit both to continued research in making optimal non-invasive alternative communication technologies as well as making progress in finding the potential ceiling in accuracy that an Auditory BCI can have in interpreting brain activity for the intended action of the user |
Demarest, Phillip; Rustamov, Nabi; Swift, James; Xie, Tao; Adamek, Markus; Cho, Hohyun; Wilson, Elizabeth; Han, Zhuangyu; Belsten, Alexander; Luczak, Nicholas; others, A Novel Theta-Controlled Vibrotactile Brain-Computer Interface To Treat Chronic Pain: A Pilot Study Journal Article In: 2023. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Neurofeedback @article{demarest2023novel, Limitations in chronic pain therapies necessitate novel interventions that are effective, accessible, and safe. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) provide a promising modality for targeting neuropathology underlying chronic pain by converting recorded neural activity into perceivable outputs. Recent evidence suggests that increased frontal theta power (4–7 Hz) reflects pain relief from chronic and acute pain. Further studies have suggested that vibrotactile stimulation decreases pain intensity in experimental and clinical models. This longitudinal, non-randomized, open-label pilot study's objective was to reinforce frontal theta activity in six patients with chronic upper extremity pain using a novel vibrotactile neurofeedback BCI system. Patients increased their BCI performance, reflecting thought-driven control of neurofeedback, and showed a significant decrease in pain severity and pain interference scores without any adverse events. Pain relief significantly correlated with frontal theta modulation. These findings highlight the potential of BCI-mediated cortico-sensory coupling of frontal theta with vibrotactile stimulation for alleviating chronic pain. |
Kambhamettu, Sudhendra; Cruz, Meenalosini Vimal; Anitha, S; Chakkaravarthy, S Sibi; Kumar, K Nandeesh Brain-Computer Interface-Assisted Automated Wheelchair Control Management--Cerebro: A BCI Application Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interface: Using Deep Learning Applications, pp. 205–229, 2023. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{kambhamettu2023brain, Technology today serves millions of people suffering from mobility impairments across the globe in numerous ways. Although advancements in medicine and healthcare systems improve the life expectancy of the general population, sophisticated engineering techniques and computing processes have long facilitated the patient in the recovery process. People struggling with mobility impairments and especially spine injuries which also leads to loss of speech, often have a narrow group of devices to aid them move from place-to-place and they are often limited to just movement functionality. BCI (Brain Computer Interface) powered wheelchairs leverage the power of the brain, i.e. translating the thoughts/neural activity into real-world movement providing automated motion without any third party intervention. Many BCI powered wheelchairs in the market are cumbersome to operate and provide only singular functionality of movement. To address this problem and improve the state of BCI products, Cerebro introduces the first ever go-to market product utilizing Artificial Intelligence to facilitate mobility features with built-in speech functionality via blink detection. Further sections of the Chapter take an in-depth look into each layer of the Cerebro system. |
2022 |
Won, Kyungho; Kim, Heegyu; Gwon, Daeun; Ahn, Minkyu; Nam, Chang S; Jun, Sung Chan Can Vibrotactile Stimulation and tDCS Help Inefficient BCI Users? Journal Article In: 2022. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Neuromodulation @article{won2022can, Brain-computer interface (BCI) has helped people by enabling them to control a computer or machine through brain activity without actual body movement. Despite this advantage, BCI cannot be used widely because some people cannot achieve controllable performance. To solve this problem, researchers have proposed stimulation methods to modulate relevant brain activity to improve BCI performance. However, multiple studies have reported mixed results following stimulation, and comparative study of different stimulation modalities has been overlooked. Accordingly, this comparative study was designed to investigate vibrotactile stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation’s (tDCS) effects on brain activity modulation and motor imagery BCI performance among inefficient BCI users. We recruited 44 subjects and divided them into sham, vibrotactile stimulation, and tDCS groups, and low performers were selected from each stimulation group. We found that the BCI performance of low performers in the vibrotactile stimulation group increased significantly by 9.13% (p=0.0053), and while the tDCS group subjects’ performance increased by 5.13%, it was not significant. In contrast, sham group subjects showed no increased performance. In addition to BCI performance, pre-stimulus alpha band power and the phase locking value (PLVs) averaged over sensory motor areas showed significant increases in low performers following stimulation in the vibrotactile stimulation and tDCS groups, while sham stimulation group subjects and high performers across all groups showed no significant stimulation effects. Our findings suggest that stimulation effects may differ depending upon BCI efficiency, and inefficient BCI users have greater plasticity than efficient BCI users. |
Humphries, Joseph B; Mattos, Daniela JS; Rutlin, Jerrel; Daniel, Andy GS; Rybczynski, Kathleen; Notestine, Theresa; Shimony, Joshua S; Burton, Harold; Carter, Alexandre; Leuthardt, Eric C Motor Network Reorganization Induced in Chronic Stroke Patients with the Use of a Contralesionally-Controlled Brain Computer Interface Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interfaces, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 179–192, 2022. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-7, Stroke @article{humphries2022motor, Upper extremity weakness in chronic stroke remains a problem not fully addressed by current therapies. Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) engaging the unaffected hemisphere are a promising therapy that are entering clinical application, but the mechanism underlying recovery is not well understood. We used resting state functional MRI to assess the impact a contralesionally driven EEG BCI therapy had on motor system functional organization. Patients used a therapeutic BCI for 12 weeks at home. We acquired resting-state fMRI scans and motor function data before and after the therapy period. Changes in functional connectivity (FC) strength between motor network regions of interest (ROIs) and the topographic extent of FC to specific ROIs were analyzed. Most patients achieved clinically significant improvement. Motor FC strength and topographic extent decreased following BCI therapy. Motor recovery correlated with reductions in motor FC strength across the entire motor network. These findings suggest BCI-mediated interventions may reverse pathologic strengthening of dysfunctional network interactions. |
Kim, Min Gyu; Lim, Hyunmi; Lee, Hye Sun; Han, In Jun; Ku, Jeonghun; Kang, Youn Joo In: Journal of Neural Engineering, vol. 19, no. 3, 2022. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Stroke @article{kim2022brain, Objective. Action observation (AO) combined with brain–computer interface (BCI) technology enhances cortical activation. Peripheral electrical stimulation (PES) increases corticospinal excitability, thereby activating brain plasticity. To maximize motor recovery, we assessed the effects of BCI-AO combined with PES on corticospinal plasticity. Approach. Seventeen patients with chronic hemiplegic stroke and 17 healthy subjects were recruited. The participants watched a video of repetitive grasping actions with four different tasks for 15 min: (A) AO alone; (B) AO + PES; (C) BCI-AO + continuous PES; and (D) BCI-AO + triggered PES. PES was applied at the ulnar nerve of the wrist. The tasks were performed in a random order at least three days apart. We assessed the latency and amplitude of motor evoked potentials (MEPs). We examined changes in MEP parameters pre-and post-exercise across the four tasks in the first dorsal interosseous muscle of the dominant hand (healthy subjects) and affected hand (stroke patients). Main results. The decrease in MEP latency and increase in MEP amplitude after the four tasks were significant in both groups. The increase in MEP amplitude was sustained for 20 min after tasks B, C, and D in both groups. The increase in MEP amplitude was significant between tasks A vs. B, B vs. C, and C vs. D. The estimated mean difference in MEP amplitude post-exercise was the highest for A and D in both groups. Significance. The results indicate that BCI-AO combined with PES is superior to AO alone or AO + PES for facilitating corticospinal plasticity in both healthy subjects and patients with stroke. Furthermore, this study supports the idea that synchronized activation of cortical and peripheral networks can enhance neuroplasticity after stroke. We suggest that the BCI-AO paradigm and PES could provide a novel neurorehabilitation strategy for patients with stroke. |
Rustamov, Nabi; Humphries, Joseph; Carter, Alexandre; Leuthardt, Eric C Theta-gamma coupling as a cortical biomarker of brain-computer interface mediated motor recovery in chronic stroke Journal Article In: Brain Communications, vol. 4, iss. 3, 2022. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-7, Stroke @article{rustamov2022thetab, Chronic stroke patients with upper-limb motor disabilities are now beginning to see treatment options that were not previously available. To date, the two options recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration include vagus nerve stimulation and brain–computer interface therapy. While the mechanisms for vagus nerve stimulation have been well defined, the mechanisms underlying brain–computer interface-driven motor rehabilitation are largely unknown. Given that cross-frequency coupling has been associated with a wide variety of higher-order functions involved in learning and memory, we hypothesized this rhythm-specific mechanism would correlate with the functional improvements effected by a brain–computer interface. This study investigated whether the motor improvements in chronic stroke patients induced with a brain–computer interface therapy are associated with alterations in phase–amplitude coupling, a type of cross-frequency coupling. Seventeen chronic hemiparetic stroke patients used a robotic hand orthosis controlled with contralesional motor cortical signals measured with EEG. Patients regularly performed a therapeutic brain–computer interface task for 12 weeks. Resting-state EEG recordings and motor function data were acquired before initiating brain–computer interface therapy and once every 4 weeks after the therapy. Changes in phase–amplitude coupling values were assessed and correlated with motor function improvements. To establish whether coupling between two different frequency bands was more functionally important than either of those rhythms alone, we calculated power spectra as well. We found that theta–gamma coupling was enhanced bilaterally at the motor areas and showed significant correlations across brain–computer interface therapy sessions. Importantly, an increase in theta–gamma coupling positively correlated with motor recovery over the course of rehabilitation. The sources of theta–gamma coupling increase following brain–computer interface therapy were mostly located in the hand regions of the primary motor cortex on the left and right cerebral hemispheres. Beta–gamma coupling decreased bilaterally at the frontal areas following the therapy, but these effects did not correlate with motor recovery. Alpha–gamma coupling was not altered by brain–computer interface therapy. Power spectra did not change significantly over the course of the brain–computer interface therapy. The significant functional improvement in chronic stroke patients induced by brain–computer interface therapy was strongly correlated with increased theta–gamma coupling in bihemispheric motor regions. These findings support the notion that specific cross-frequency coupling dynamics in the brain likely play a mechanistic role in mediating motor recovery in the chronic phase of stroke recovery. |
Klee, Daniel; Memmott, Tab; Smedemark-Margulies, Niklas; Celik, Basak; Erdogmus, Deniz; Oken, Barry S Target-Related Alpha Attenuation in a Brain-Computer Interface Rapid Serial Visual Presentation Calibration Journal Article In: Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, vol. 16, 2022. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-VR300 @article{klee2022target, This study evaluated the feasibility of using occipitoparietal alpha activity to drive target/non-target classification in a brain-computer interface (BCI) for communication. EEG data were collected from 12 participants who completed BCI Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP) calibrations at two different presentation rates: 1 and 4 Hz. Attention-related changes in posterior alpha activity were compared to two event-related potentials (ERPs): N200 and P300. Machine learning approaches evaluated target/non-target classification accuracy using alpha activity. Results indicated significant alpha attenuation following target letters at both 1 and 4 Hz presentation rates, though this effect was significantly reduced in the 4 Hz condition. Target-related alpha attenuation was not correlated with coincident N200 or P300 target effects. Classification using posterior alpha activity was above chance and benefitted from individualized tuning procedures. These findings suggest that target-related posterior alpha attenuation is detectable in a BCI RSVP calibration and that this signal could be leveraged in machine learning algorithms used for RSVP or comparable attention-based BCI paradigms. |
2021 |
Kim, Soram; Lee, Seungyun; Kang, Hyunsuk; Kim, Sion; Ahn, Minkyu P300 Brain--Computer Interface-Based Drone Control in Virtual and Augmented Reality Journal Article In: Sensors, vol. 21, no. 17, pp. 5765, 2021. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-VR300, VR @article{kim2021p300, Since the emergence of head-mounted displays (HMDs), researchers have attempted to introduce virtual and augmented reality (VR, AR) in brain–computer interface (BCI) studies. However, there is a lack of studies that incorporate both AR and VR to compare the performance in the two environments. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a BCI application that can be used in both VR and AR to allow BCI performance to be compared in the two environments. In this study, we developed an opensource-based drone control application using P300-based BCI, which can be used in both VR and AR. Twenty healthy subjects participated in the experiment with this application. They were asked to control the drone in two environments and filled out questionnaires before and after the experiment. We found no significant (p > 0.05) difference in online performance (classification accuracy and amplitude/latency of P300 component) and user experience (satisfaction about time length, program, environment, interest, difficulty, immersion, and feeling of self-control) between VR and AR. This indicates that the P300 BCI paradigm is relatively reliable and may work well in various situations |
Lim, Hyunmi; Ku, Jeonghun Superior Facilitation of an Action Observation Network by Congruent Character Movements in Brain--Computer Interface Action-Observation Games Journal Article In: Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, vol. 24, no. 8, pp. 566–572, 2021. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{lim2021superior, Action observation (AO) is a promising strategy for promoting motor function in neural rehabilitation. Recently, brain–computer interface (BCI)-AO game rehabilitation, which combines AO therapy with BCI technology, has been introduced to improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation. This approach can improve motor learning by providing feedback, which can be interactive in an observation task, and the game contents of the BCI-AO game paradigm can affect rehabilitation. In this study, the effects of congruent rather than incongruent feedback in a BCI-AO game on mirror neurons were investigated. Specifically, the mu suppression with congruent and incongruent BCI-AO games was measured in 17 healthy adults. The mu suppression in the central motor cortex was significantly higher with the congruent BCI-AO game than with the incongruent one. In addition, the satisfaction evaluation results were excellent for the congruent case. These results support the fact that providing feedback congruent with the motion of an action video facilitates mirror neuron activity and can offer useful guidelines for the design of BCI-AO games for rehabilitation |
Zhang, Dong Brain-Controlled Robotic Arm Based on Adaptive FBCCA Conference Human Brain and Artificial Intelligence: Second International Workshop, HBAI 2020, Held in Conjunction with IJCAI-PRICAI 2020, Yokohama, Japan, January 7, 2021, Revised Selected Papers, Springer Nature 2021. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @conference{zhang2021brain, The SSVEP-BCI system usually uses a fixed calculation time and a static window stop method to decode the EEG signal, which reduces the efficiency of the system. In response to this problem, this paper uses an adaptive FBCCA algorithm, which uses Bayesian estimation to dynamically find the optimal data length for result prediction, adapts to the differences between different trials and different individuals, and effectively improves system operation effectiveness. At the same time, through this method, this paper constructs a brain-controlled robotic arm grasping life assistance system based on adaptive FBCCA. In this paper, we selected 20 subjects and conducted a total of 400 experiments. A large number of experiments have verified that the system is available and the average recognition success rate is 95.5%. This also proves that the system can be applied to actual scenarios. Help the handicapped to use the brain to control the mechanical arm to grab the needed items to assist in daily life and improve the quality of life. In the future, SSVEP’s adaptive FBCCA decoding algorithm can be combined with the motor imaging brain-computer interface decoding algorithm to build a corresponding system to help patients with upper or lower limb movement disorders caused by stroke diseases to recover, and reshape the brain and Control connection of limbs. |
Eldeeb, Safaa; Susam, Busra T; Akcakaya, Murat; Conner, Caitlin M; White, Susan W; Mazefsky, Carla A Trial by trial EEG based BCI for distress versus non distress classification in individuals with ASD Journal Article In: Scientific Reports, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 1–13, 2021. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, Biomarker, DSI-24 @article{eldeeb2021trial, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is often accompanied by impaired emotion regulation (ER). There has been increasing emphasis on developing evidence-based approaches to improve ER in ASD. Electroencephalography (EEG) has shown success in reducing ASD symptoms when used in neurofeedback-based interventions. Also, certain EEG components are associated with ER. Our overarching goal is to develop a technology that will use EEG to monitor real-time changes in ER and perform intervention based on these changes. As a first step, an EEG-based brain computer interface that is based on an Affective Posner task was developed to identify patterns associated with ER on a single trial basis, and EEG data collected from 21 individuals with ASD. Accordingly, our aim in this study is to investigate EEG features that could differentiate between distress and non-distress conditions. Specifically, we investigate if the EEG time-locked to the visual feedback presentation could be used to classify between WIN (non-distress) and LOSE (distress) conditions in a game with deception. Results showed that the extracted EEG features could differentiate between WIN and LOSE conditions (average accuracy of 81%), LOSE and rest-EEG conditions (average accuracy 94.8%), and WIN and rest-EEG conditions (average accuracy 94.9%). |
Memmott, Tab; Koçanaoğullari, Aziz; Lawhead, Matthew; Klee, Daniel; Dudy, Shiran; Fried-Oken, Melanie; Oken, Barry BciPy: brain--computer interface software in Python Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interfaces, pp. 1-18, 2021. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{memmott2021bcipy, There are high technological and software demands associated with conducting Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) research. In order to accelerate the development and accessibility of BCIs, it is worthwhile to focus on open-source and community desired tooling. Python, a prominent computer language, has emerged as a language of choice for many research and engineering purposes. In this article, BciPy, an open-source, Python-based software for conducting BCI research is presented. It was developed with a focus on restoring communication using Event-Related Potential (ERP) spelling interfaces; however, it may be used for other non-spelling and non-ERP BCI paradigms. Major modules in this system include support for data acquisition, data queries, stimuli presentation, signal processing, signal viewing and modeling, language modeling, task building, and a simple Graphical User Interface (GUI). |
2020 |
Son, Ji Eun; Choi, Hyoseon; Lim, Hyunmi; Ku, Jeonghun In: Technology and Health Care, vol. 28, no. S1, pp. 509-519, 2020. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{son2020development, BACKGROUND: This study focused on developing an upper limb rehabilitation program. In this regard, a steady state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) triggered brain computer interface (BCI)-functional electrical stimulation (FES) based action observation game featuring a flickering action video was designed. OBJECTIVE: In particular, the synergetic effect of the game was investigated by combining the action observation paradigm with BCI based FES. METHODS: The BCI-FES system was contrasted under two conditions: with flickering action video and flickering noise video. In this regard, 11 right-handed subjects aged between 22–27 years were recruited. The differences in brain activation in response to the two conditions were examined. RESULTS: The results indicate that T3 and P3 channels exhibited greater Mu suppression in 8–13 Hz for the action video than the noise video. Furthermore, T4, C4, and P4 channels indicated augmented high beta (21–30 Hz) for the action in contrast to the noise video. Finally, T4 indicated suppressed low beta (14–20 Hz) for the action video in contrast to the noise video. CONCLUSION: The flickering action video based BCI-FES system induced a more synergetic effect on cortical activation than the flickering noise based system. |
2019 |
Choi, Hyoseon; Lim, Hyunmi; Kim, Joon Woo; Kang, Youn Joo; Ku, Jeonghun Brain computer interface-based action observation game enhances mu suppression in patients with stroke Journal Article In: Electronics, vol. 8, no. 12, pp. 1466, 2019. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Stroke @article{choi2019brain, Action observation (AO), based on the mirror neuron theory, is a promising strategy to promote motor cortical activation in neurorehabilitation. Brain computer interface (BCI) can detect a user’s intention and provide them with brain state-dependent feedback to assist with patient rehabilitation. We investigated the effects of a combined BCI-AO game on power of mu band attenuation in stroke patients. Nineteen patients with subacute stroke were recruited. A BCI-AO game provided real-time feedback to participants regarding their attention to a flickering action video using steady-state visual-evoked potentials. All participants watched a video of repetitive grasping actions under two conditions: (1) BCI-AO game and (2) conventional AO, in random order. In the BCI-AO game, feedback on participants’ observation scores and observation time was provided. In conventional AO, a non-flickering video and no feedback were provided. The magnitude of mu suppression in the central motor, temporal, parietal, and occipital areas was significantly higher in the BCI-AO game than in the conventional AO. The magnitude of mu suppression was significantly higher in the BCI-AO game than in the conventional AO both in the affected and unaffected hemispheres. These results support the facilitatory effects of the BCI-AO game on mu suppression over conventional AO |
Goethem, Sander Van; Adema, Kimberly; van Bergen, Britt; Viaene, Emilia; Wenborn, Eva; Verwulgen, Stijn A Test Setting to Compare Spatial Awareness on Paper and in Virtual Reality Using EEG Signals Conference International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, Springer 2019. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, Cognitive-Algorithm, DSI-7, VR @conference{van2019test, Spatial awareness and the ability to analyze spatial objects, manipulate them and assess the effect thereof, is a key competence for industrial designers. Skills are gradually built up throughout most educational design programs, starting with exercises on technical drawings and reconstruction or classification of spatial objects from isometric projections and CAD practice. The accuracy in which spatial assignments are conducted and the amount of effort required to fulfill them, highly depend on individual insight, interests and persistence. Thus each individual has its own struggles and learning curve to master the structure of spatial objects in aesthetic and functional design. Virtual reality (VR) is a promising tool to expose subjects to objects with complex spatial structure, and even manipulate and design spatial characteristics of such objects. The advantage of displaying spatial objects in VR, compared to representations by projecting them on a screen or paper, could be that subjects could more accurately assess spatial properties of and object and its full geometrical and/or mechanical complexity, when exposed to that object in VR. Immersive experience of spatial objects, could not only result in faster acquiring spatial insights, but also potentially with less effort. We propose that acquiring spatial insight in VR could leverage individual differences in skills and talents and that under this proposition VR can be used as a promising tool in design education. A first step in underpinning this hypothesis, is acquisition of cognitive workload that can be used and compared both in VR and in a classical teaching context. We use electroencephalography (EEG) to assess brain activity through wearable plug and play headset (Wearable Sensing-DSI 7). This equipment is combined with VR (Oculus). We use QStates classification software to compare brain waves when conducting spatial assessments on paper and in VR. This gives us a measure of cognitive workload, as a ratio of a resulting from subject records with a presumed ‘high’ workload. A total number of eight records of subjects were suited for comparison. No significant difference was found between EEG signals (paried t-test, p = 0.57). However the assessment of cognitive workload was successfully validated through a questionnaire. The method could be used to set up reliable constructs for learning techniques for spatial insights. |
Lim, Hyunmi; Ku, Jeonghun Multiple-command single-frequency SSVEP-based BCI system using flickering action video Journal Article In: Journal of Neuroscience Methods, vol. 314, pp. 21-27, 2019. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{lim2019multiple, Background The number of commands in a brain–computer interface (BCI) system is important. This study proposes a new BCI technique to increase the number of commands in a single BCI system without loss of accuracy. New method We expected that a flickering action video with left and right elbow movements could simultaneously activate the different pattern of event-related desynchronization (ERD) according to the video contents (e.g., left or right) and steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP). The classification accuracy to discriminate left, right, and rest states was compared under the three following feature combinations: SSVEP power (19–21 Hz), Mu power (8–13 Hz), and simultaneous SSVEP and Mu power. Results The SSVEP feature could discriminate the stimulus condition, regardless of left or right, from the rest condition, while the Mu feature discriminated left or right, but was relatively poor in discriminating stimulus from rest. However, combining the SSVEP and Mu features, which were evoked by the stimulus with a single frequency, showed superior performance for discriminating all the stimuli among rest, left, or right. Comparison with the existing method The video contents could activate the ERD differently, and the flickering component increased its accuracy, such that it revealed a better performance to discriminate when considering together. Conclusions This paradigm showed possibility of increasing performance in terms of accuracy and number of commands with a single frequency by applying flickering action video paradigm and applicability to rehabilitation systems used by patients to facilitate their mirror neuron systems while training. |
2018 |
Pereira, Arnaldo; Padden, Dereck; Jantz, Jay; Lin, Kate; Alcaide-Aguirre, Ramses Cross-Subject EEG Event-Related Potential Classification for Brain-Computer Interfaces Using Residual Networks Journal Article In: 2018. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-VR300 @article{pereira2018cross, EEG event-related potentials, and the P300 signal in particular, are promising modalities for brain-computer interfaces (BCI). But the nonstationarity of EEG signals and their differences across individuals have made it difficult to implement classifiers that can determine user intent without having to be retrained or calibrated for each new user and sometimes even each session. This is a major impediment to the development of consumer BCI. Recently, the EEG BCI literature has begun to apply convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for classification, but experiments have largely been limited to training and testing on single subjects. In this paper, we report a study in which EEG data were recorded from 66 subjects in a visual oddball task in virtual reality. Using wide residual networks (WideResNets), we obtain state-of-the-art performance on a test set composed of data from all 66 subjects together. Additionally, a minimal preprocessing stream to convert EEG data into square images for CNN input while adding regularization is presented and shown to be viable. This study also provides some guidance on network architecture parameters based on experiments with different models. Our results show that it may possible with enough data to train a classifier for EEG-based BCIs that can generalize across individuals without the need for individual training or calibration. |
Memmott, Tab; Eddy, Brandon; Dabiri, Sina; Erdogmus, Deniz; Fried-Oken, Melanie; Oken, Barry Automated and self-report measures of drowsiness over successive calibrations in a brain-computer interface for communication Journal Article In: Clinical Neurophysiology, vol. 129, pp. e61–e62, 2018. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24 @article{memmott2018t154, Brain computer interfaces (BCI) generally require the user to maintain an attentive state. Potential end-users with severe speech and physical impairments may have limited communication abilities to report their current state, thus an automatic calculation of state may improve performance. It’s not yet known if an effective automatic calculation of drowsiness can be detected reliably in end-user populations or healthy controls. |
2015 |
Kang, Dayoon; Kim, Jinsoo; Jang, Dong-Pyo; Cho, Yang Seok; Kim, Sung-Phil Investigation of engagement of viewers in movie trailers using electroencephalography Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interfaces, vol. 2, no. 4, pp. 193–201, 2015. Abstract | Links | Tags: BCI, DSI-24, Neuromarketing @article{kang2015investigation, Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have been focused on providing direct communications to the disabled. Recently, BCI researchers have expanded BCI applications to non-medical uses and categorized them as active BCI, reactive BCI, and passive BCI. Neurocinematics, a new application of reactive BCIs, aims to understand viewers’ cognitive and affective responses to movies from neural activity, providing more objective information than traditional subjective self-reports. However, studies on analytical indices for neurocinematics have verified their indices by comparisons with self-reports. To overcome this contradictory issue, we proposed using an independent psychophysical index to evaluate a neural engagement index (NEI). We made use of the secondary task reaction time (STRT), which measures participants’ engagement in a primary task by their reaction time to a secondary task; here, responding to a tactile stimulus was the secondary task and watching a movie trailer was the primary task. NEI was developed as changes in the difference between frontal beta and alpha activity of EEG. We evaluated movie trailers using NEI, STRT, and self-reports and found a significant correlation between STRT and NEI across trailers but no correlation between any of the self-report results and STRT or NEI. Our results suggest that NEI developed for neurocinematics may conform well with more objective psychophysical assessments but not with subjective self-reports. |
2009 |
Sellers, Eric W; Turner, Peter; Sarnacki, William A; McManus, Tobin; Vaughan, Theresa M; Matthews, Robert A Novel Dry Electrode for Brain-Computer Interface Conference International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, Springer 2009. @conference{sellers2009novel, A brain-computer interface is a device that uses signals recorded from the brain to directly control a computer. In the last few years, P300-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have proven an effective and reliable means of communication for people with severe motor disabilities such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Despite this fact, relatively few individuals have benefited from currently available BCI technology. Independent BCI use requires easily acquired, good-quality electroencephalographic (EEG) signals maintained over long periods in less-than-ideal electrical environments. Conventional, wet-sensor, electrodes require careful application. Faulty or inadequate preparation, noisy environments, or gel evaporation can result in poor signal quality. Poor signal quality produces poor user performance, system downtime, and user and caregiver frustration. This study demonstrates that a hybrid dry electrode sensor array (HESA) performs as well as traditional wet electrodes and may help propel BCI technology to a widely accepted alternative mode of communication. |
2025 |
Peters, Betts; Celik, Basak; Gaines, Dylan; Galvin-McLaughlin, Deirdre; Imbiriba, Tales; Kinsella, Michelle; Klee, Daniel; Lawhead, Matthew; Memmott, Tab; Smedemark-Margulies, Niklas; others, In: Journal of Neural Engineering, 2025. @article{peters2025rsvp, Objective. The RSVP Keyboard is a non-implantable, event-related potential-based brain-computer interface (BCI) system designed to support communication access for people with severe speech and physical impairments. Here we introduce Inquiry Preview, a new RSVP Keyboard interface incorporating switch input for users with some voluntary motor function, and describe its effects on typing performance and other outcomes. Approach. Four individuals with disabilities participated in the collaborative design of possible switch input applications for the RSVP Keyboard, leading to the development of Inquiry Preview and a method of fusing switch input with language model and electroencephalography (EEG) evidence for typing. Twenty-four participants without disabilities and one potential end user with incomplete locked-in syndrome took part in two experiments investigating the effects of Inquiry Preview and two modes of switch input on typing accuracy and speed during a copy-spelling task. Main results. For participants without disabilities, Inquiry Preview and switch input tended to worsen typing performance compared to the standard RSVP Keyboard condition, with more consistent effects across participants for speed than for accuracy. However, there was considerable variability, with some participants demonstrating improved typing performance and better user experience with Inquiry Preview and switch input. Typing performance for the potential end user was comparable to that of participants without disabilities. He typed most quickly and accurately with Inquiry Preview and switch input and gave favorable user experience ratings to those conditions, but preferred standard RSVP Keyboard. Significance. Inquiry Preview is a novel multimodal interface for the RSVP Keyboard BCI, incorporating switch input as an additional control signal. Typing performance and user experience and preference varied widely across participants, reinforcing the need for flexible, customizable BCI systems that can adapt to individual users. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04468919. |
2024 |
Sultana, Mushfika; Jain, Osheen; Halder, Sebastian; Matran-Fernandez, Ana; Nawaz, Rab; Scherer, Reinhold; Chavarriaga, Ricardo; del R Millán, José; Perdikis, Serafeim Evaluating Dry EEG Technology Out of the Lab Conference 2024 IEEE International Conference on Metrology for eXtended Reality, Artificial Intelligence and Neural Engineering (MetroXRAINE), IEEE 2024. @conference{sultana2024evaluating, Dry electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing the usability of non-invasive Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) systems. Recent advancements in dry helmets have demonstrated competitiveness in enabling EEG and BCI applications with state-of-the-art gel-based systems. In this study, we evaluate the performance and signal quality of a dry EEG cap for BCI applications in a large population. The assessment was conducted under extremely noisy conditions at a public exhibition, surrounded by numerous attendees and multiple sources of electromagnetic interference. Our analysis includes 100 participants from the Mental Work exhibition and assesses the acquired signal's integrity through, Motor Imagery (MI) classification accuracy, the kurtosis of the raw signals and the deviation of the Power Spectral Density (PSD) spectra from the ideal curve. Results show that 56 participants achieved above chance-level single-sample accuracy, with even higher accuracy observed for peak performance. Frontal channels exhibited higher artifact presence, yet the overall signal quality was comparable to gel-based systems used in the authors' previous studies. These findings confirm the potential of dry EEG technology to enable BCI applications beyond the lab, facilitating everyday use in homes, clinics, and public spaces. |
Gwon, Daeun; Ahn, Minkyu Motor task-to-task transfer learning for motor imagery brain-computer interfaces Journal Article In: NeuroImage, pp. 120906, 2024. @article{gwon2024motor, Motor imagery (MI) is one of the popular control paradigms in the non-invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) field. MI-BCI generally requires users to conduct the imagination of movement (e.g., left or right hand) to collect training data for generating a classification model during the calibration phase. However, this calibration phase is generally time-consuming and tedious, as users conduct the imagination of hand movement several times without being given feedback for an extended period. This obstacle makes MI-BCI non user-friendly and hinders its use. On the other hand, motor execution (ME) and motor observation (MO) are relatively easier tasks, yield lower fatigue than MI, and share similar neural mechanisms to MI. However, few studies have integrated these three tasks into BCIs. In this study, we propose a new task-to-task transfer learning approach of 3-motor tasks (ME, MO, and MI) for building a better user-friendly MI-BCI. For this study, 28 subjects participated in 3-motor tasks experiment, and electroencephalography (EEG) was acquired. User opinions regarding the 3-motor tasks were also collected through questionnaire survey. The 3-motor tasks showed a power decrease in the alpha rhythm, known as event-related desynchronization, but with slight differences in the temporal patterns. In the classification analysis, the cross-validated accuracy (within-task) was 67.05 % for ME, 65.93 % for MI, and 73.16 % for MO on average. Consistently with the results, the subjects scored MI (3.16) as the most difficult task compared with MO (1.42) and ME (1.41), with p < 0.05. In the analysis of task-to-task transfer learning, where training and testing are performed using different task datasets, the ME–trained model yielded an accuracy of 65.93 % (MI test), which is statistically similar to the within-task accuracy (p > 0.05). The MO–trained model achieved an accuracy of 60.82 % (MI test). On the other hand, combining two datasets yielded interesting results. ME and 50 % of the MI–trained model (50-shot) classified MI with a 69.21 % accuracy, which outperformed the within-task accuracy (p < 0.05), and MO and 50 % of the MI–trained model showed an accuracy of 66.75 %. Of the low performers with a within-task accuracy of 70 % or less, 90 % (n = 21) of the subjects improved in training with ME, and 76.2 % (n = 16) improved in training with MO on the MI test at 50-shot. These results demonstrate that task-to-task transfer learning is possible and could be a promising approach to building a user-friendly training protocol in MI-BCI. |
Harel, Asaf; Shriki, Oren Task-guided attention increases non-linearity of steady-state visually evoked potentials Journal Article In: Journal of Neural Engineering, 2024. @article{harel2024task, Attention is a multifaceted cognitive process, with nonlinear dynamics playing a crucial role. In this study, we investigated the involvement of nonlinear processes in top-down visual attention by employing a contrast-modulated sequence of letters and numerals, encircled by a consistently flickering white square on a black background - a setup that generated steady-state visually evoked potentials. Nonlinear processes are recognized for eliciting and modulating the harmonics of constant frequencies. We examined the fundamental and harmonic frequencies of each stimulus to evaluate the underlying nonlinear dynamics during stimulus processing. In line with prior research, our findings indicate that the power spectrum density of EEG responses is influenced by both task presence and stimulus contrast. By utilizing the Rhythmic Entrainment Source Separation (RESS) technique, we discovered that actively searching for a target within a letter stream heightened the amplitude of the fundamental frequency and harmonics related to the background flickering stimulus. While the fundamental frequency amplitude remained unaffected by stimulus contrast, a lower contrast led to an increase in the second harmonic's amplitude. We assessed the relationship between the contrast response function and the nonlinear-based harmonic responses. Our findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the nonlinear processes impacting top-down visual attention while also providing insights into optimizing brain-computer interfaces. |
Cha, Seungwoo; Kim, Kyoung Tae; Chang, Won Kee; Paik, Nam-Jong; Choi, Ji Soo; Lim, Hyunmi; Kim, Won-Seok; Ku, Jeonghun Effect of Electroencephalography-based Motor Imagery Neurofeedback on Mu Suppression During Motor Attempt in Patients with Stroke Journal Article In: Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation , 2024. @article{cha2024effect, Objective The primary aims of this study were to explore the neurophysiological effects of motor imagery neurofeedback using electroencephalography (EEG), specifically focusing on mu suppression during serial motor attempts and assessing its potential benefits in patients with subacute stroke. Methods A total of 15 patients with hemiplegia following subacute ischemic stroke were prospectively enrolled in this randomized cross-over study. This study comprised two experiments: neurofeedback and sham. Each experiment included four blocks: three blocks of resting, grasp, resting, and intervention, followed by one block of resting and grasp. During the resting sessions, the participants fixated on a white cross on a black background for 2 minutes without moving their upper extremities. In the grasp sessions, the participants were instructed to grasp and release their paretic hand at a frequency of about 1 Hz for 3 minutes while fixating on the same white cross. During the intervention sessions, neurofeedback involved presenting a punching image with the affected upper limb corresponding to the mu suppression induced by imagined movement, while the sham involved mu suppression of other randomly selected participants 3 minutes. EEG data were recorded during the experiment, and data from C3/C4 and P3/P4 were used for analyses to compare the degree of mu suppression between the neurofeedback and sham conditions. Results Significant mu suppression was observed in the bilateral motor and parietal cortices during the neurofeedback intervention compared with the sham condition across serial sessions (p < 0.001). Following neurofeedback, the real grasping sessions showed progressive strengthening of mu suppression in the ipsilesional motor cortex and bilateral parietal cortices compared to those following sham (p < 0.05), an effect not observed in the contralesional motor cortex. Conclusion Motor imagery neurofeedback significantly enhances mu suppression in the ipsilesional motor and bilateral parietal cortices during motor attempts in patients with subacute stroke. These findings suggest that motor imagery neurofeedback could serve as a promising adjunctive therapy to enhance motor-related cortical activity and support motor rehabilitation in patients with stroke. |
Xu, Jihong; Chen, Tianran; Yan, Lirong Improvement Of An Untrained Brain-computer Interface System Combined With Target Recognition Proceedings Article In: 2024 16th International Conference on Electronics, Computers and Artificial Intelligence (ECAI), pp. 1–6, IEEE 2024. @inproceedings{xu2024improvement, In the current commonly used Steady State Visual Evoked Potential (SSVEP) paradigm, the stimuli are mostly white flashing blocks superimposed on a black background, which is monotonous and easy to cause subject fatigue with prolonged flashing stimuli. The stimulus paradigm is mostly divorced from the actual control environment, and lacks a direct connection with the control task. The mainstream classification algorithms usually analyze the data with a fixed window length, which is lack of generalizability to different subjects, and the classification performance index needs to be further improved. In this study, the SSVEP stimulus paradigm was improved by combining the YOLOv5 algorithm, which changed from the traditional black background to the actual control environment. It superimposed SSVEP stimulus blocks of different frequencies at each recognized target location. The stimulus paradigm was not stripped from the control scene, and the Filter Bank Criterion Correlation Analysis (FBCCA) algorithm was chosen to analyze it. The FBCCA algorithm was further improved by using a dynamic window strategy, which automatically adjusts the window length of each experiment according to the characteristics of each subject. This improves the versatility of the algorithm and increases the recognition accuracy and Information Transfer Rate (ITR). After the improvement, the offline experimental data were analyzed. The improved algorithm achieved an average accuracy of 87.08%, which was 17.29% higher than the original algorithm. Additionally, the average ITR was 74.28 bits/min, which was 36.51 bits/min higher than the original algorithm. |
Jeong, Chang Hyeon; Lim, Hyunmi; Lee, Jiye; Lee, Hye Sun; Ku, Jeonghun; Kang, Youn Joo In: Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol. 18, pp. 1373589, 2024. @article{jeong2024attentional, Introduction: Brain computer interface-based action observation (BCI-AO) is a promising technique in detecting the user's cortical state of visual attention and providing feedback to assist rehabilitation. Peripheral nerve electrical stimulation (PES) is a conventional method used to enhance outcomes in upper extremity function by increasing activation in the motor cortex. In this study, we examined the effects of different pairings of peripheral nerve electrical stimulation (PES) during BCI-AO tasks and their impact on corticospinal plasticity. Materials and methods: Our innovative BCI-AO interventions decoded user's attentive watching during task completion. This process involved providing rewarding visual cues while simultaneously activating afferent pathways through PES. Fifteen stroke patients were included in the analysis. All patients underwent a 15 min BCI-AO program under four different experimental conditions: BCI-AO without PES, BCI-AO with continuous PES, BCI-AO with triggered PES, and BCI-AO with reverse PES application. PES was applied at the ulnar nerve of the wrist at an intensity equivalent to 120% of the sensory threshold and a frequency of 50 Hz. The experiment was conducted randomly at least 3 days apart. To assess corticospinal and peripheral nerve excitability, we compared pre and post-task (post 0, post 20 min) parameters of motor evoked potential and F waves under the four conditions in the muscle of the affected hand.The findings indicated that corticospinal excitability in the affected hemisphere was higher when PES was synchronously applied with AO training, using BCI during a state of attentive watching. In contrast, there was no effect on corticospinal activation when PES was applied continuously or in the reverse manner. This paradigm promoted corticospinal plasticity for up to 20 min after task completion. Importantly, the effect was more evident in patients over 65 years of age.The results showed that task-driven corticospinal plasticity was higher when PES was applied synchronously with a highly attentive brain state during the action observation task, compared to continuous or asynchronous application. This study provides insight into how optimized BCI technologies dependent on brain state used in conjunction with other rehabilitation training could enhance treatment-induced neural plasticity. |
Klee, Daniel; Memmott, Tab; Oken, Barry In: Signals, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 18–39, 2024. @article{klee2024effect, Brain responses to discrete stimuli are modulated when multiple stimuli are presented in sequence. These alterations are especially pronounced when the time course of an evoked response overlaps with responses to subsequent stimuli, such as in a rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) paradigm used to control a brain–computer interface (BCI). The present study explored whether the measurement or classification of select brain responses during RSVP would improve through application of an established technique for dealing with overlapping stimulus presentations, known as irregular or “jittered” stimulus onset interval (SOI). EEG data were collected from 24 healthy adult participants across multiple rounds of RSVP calibration and copy phrase tasks with varying degrees of SOI jitter. Analyses measured three separate brain signals sensitive to attention: N200, P300, and occipitoparietal alpha attenuation. Presentation jitter visibly reduced intrusion of the SSVEP, but in general, it did not positively or negatively affect attention effects, classification, or system performance. Though it remains unclear whether stimulus overlap is detrimental to BCI performance overall, the present study demonstrates that single-trial classification approaches may be resilient to rhythmic intrusions like SSVEP that appear in the averaged EEG. |
2023 |
Ferrisi, Leonardo M Optimizing an assistive Brain Computer Interface that uses Auditory Attention as Input Masters Thesis 2023. @mastersthesis{ferrisi2023optimizing, Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs) allow individuals to operate technology using (typically consciously controllable) aspects of their brain activity. Auditory BCIs utilize principles of Auditory Event Related Potentials or Auditory Evoked Potentials as a reproducible controllable features that individuals can use to operate a BCI. These Auditory BCIs in their most basic format can allow users to answer yes or no questions by listening to either one auditory stimuli or the other. Current accuracy in intended response detection for these kinds of BCIs can be as good as mean accuracy of 77 % [5]. BCI research tends to optimize the computer side of the system however the ease of use for the human operating the system is an important point of consideration as well. This research project aimed to determine what factors make a human operator able to achieve the highest accuracy using a given previously successfully demonstrated classifier. This research project primarily sought to answer the questions; to what degree people can improve their accuracy in operating an Auditory BCI and what factors of the stimulus used can be altered to achieve this. The results of this project, obtained through the data collected from six individuals, found that slower stimuli speeds for eliciting Auditory Event Related Potentials were significantly better at achieving higher prediction accuracies compared to faster stimulus speeds. The amount of time spent using the system appeared to result in diminishing returns in accuracy regardless of condition however not before an initial spike in greater classifier prediction accuracy for the second condition run on each subject. Although further research is needed to gain more conclusive evidence for or against the hypothesis, the results of this research may be able suggest that individuals can improve their performance using Auditory BCIs with practice at optimal parameters albeit within a given time frame before experiencing diminishing returns. These findings would stand to provide benefit both to continued research in making optimal non-invasive alternative communication technologies as well as making progress in finding the potential ceiling in accuracy that an Auditory BCI can have in interpreting brain activity for the intended action of the user |
Demarest, Phillip; Rustamov, Nabi; Swift, James; Xie, Tao; Adamek, Markus; Cho, Hohyun; Wilson, Elizabeth; Han, Zhuangyu; Belsten, Alexander; Luczak, Nicholas; others, A Novel Theta-Controlled Vibrotactile Brain-Computer Interface To Treat Chronic Pain: A Pilot Study Journal Article In: 2023. @article{demarest2023novel, Limitations in chronic pain therapies necessitate novel interventions that are effective, accessible, and safe. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) provide a promising modality for targeting neuropathology underlying chronic pain by converting recorded neural activity into perceivable outputs. Recent evidence suggests that increased frontal theta power (4–7 Hz) reflects pain relief from chronic and acute pain. Further studies have suggested that vibrotactile stimulation decreases pain intensity in experimental and clinical models. This longitudinal, non-randomized, open-label pilot study's objective was to reinforce frontal theta activity in six patients with chronic upper extremity pain using a novel vibrotactile neurofeedback BCI system. Patients increased their BCI performance, reflecting thought-driven control of neurofeedback, and showed a significant decrease in pain severity and pain interference scores without any adverse events. Pain relief significantly correlated with frontal theta modulation. These findings highlight the potential of BCI-mediated cortico-sensory coupling of frontal theta with vibrotactile stimulation for alleviating chronic pain. |
Kambhamettu, Sudhendra; Cruz, Meenalosini Vimal; Anitha, S; Chakkaravarthy, S Sibi; Kumar, K Nandeesh Brain-Computer Interface-Assisted Automated Wheelchair Control Management--Cerebro: A BCI Application Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interface: Using Deep Learning Applications, pp. 205–229, 2023. @article{kambhamettu2023brain, Technology today serves millions of people suffering from mobility impairments across the globe in numerous ways. Although advancements in medicine and healthcare systems improve the life expectancy of the general population, sophisticated engineering techniques and computing processes have long facilitated the patient in the recovery process. People struggling with mobility impairments and especially spine injuries which also leads to loss of speech, often have a narrow group of devices to aid them move from place-to-place and they are often limited to just movement functionality. BCI (Brain Computer Interface) powered wheelchairs leverage the power of the brain, i.e. translating the thoughts/neural activity into real-world movement providing automated motion without any third party intervention. Many BCI powered wheelchairs in the market are cumbersome to operate and provide only singular functionality of movement. To address this problem and improve the state of BCI products, Cerebro introduces the first ever go-to market product utilizing Artificial Intelligence to facilitate mobility features with built-in speech functionality via blink detection. Further sections of the Chapter take an in-depth look into each layer of the Cerebro system. |
2022 |
Won, Kyungho; Kim, Heegyu; Gwon, Daeun; Ahn, Minkyu; Nam, Chang S; Jun, Sung Chan Can Vibrotactile Stimulation and tDCS Help Inefficient BCI Users? Journal Article In: 2022. @article{won2022can, Brain-computer interface (BCI) has helped people by enabling them to control a computer or machine through brain activity without actual body movement. Despite this advantage, BCI cannot be used widely because some people cannot achieve controllable performance. To solve this problem, researchers have proposed stimulation methods to modulate relevant brain activity to improve BCI performance. However, multiple studies have reported mixed results following stimulation, and comparative study of different stimulation modalities has been overlooked. Accordingly, this comparative study was designed to investigate vibrotactile stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation’s (tDCS) effects on brain activity modulation and motor imagery BCI performance among inefficient BCI users. We recruited 44 subjects and divided them into sham, vibrotactile stimulation, and tDCS groups, and low performers were selected from each stimulation group. We found that the BCI performance of low performers in the vibrotactile stimulation group increased significantly by 9.13% (p=0.0053), and while the tDCS group subjects’ performance increased by 5.13%, it was not significant. In contrast, sham group subjects showed no increased performance. In addition to BCI performance, pre-stimulus alpha band power and the phase locking value (PLVs) averaged over sensory motor areas showed significant increases in low performers following stimulation in the vibrotactile stimulation and tDCS groups, while sham stimulation group subjects and high performers across all groups showed no significant stimulation effects. Our findings suggest that stimulation effects may differ depending upon BCI efficiency, and inefficient BCI users have greater plasticity than efficient BCI users. |
Humphries, Joseph B; Mattos, Daniela JS; Rutlin, Jerrel; Daniel, Andy GS; Rybczynski, Kathleen; Notestine, Theresa; Shimony, Joshua S; Burton, Harold; Carter, Alexandre; Leuthardt, Eric C Motor Network Reorganization Induced in Chronic Stroke Patients with the Use of a Contralesionally-Controlled Brain Computer Interface Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interfaces, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 179–192, 2022. @article{humphries2022motor, Upper extremity weakness in chronic stroke remains a problem not fully addressed by current therapies. Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) engaging the unaffected hemisphere are a promising therapy that are entering clinical application, but the mechanism underlying recovery is not well understood. We used resting state functional MRI to assess the impact a contralesionally driven EEG BCI therapy had on motor system functional organization. Patients used a therapeutic BCI for 12 weeks at home. We acquired resting-state fMRI scans and motor function data before and after the therapy period. Changes in functional connectivity (FC) strength between motor network regions of interest (ROIs) and the topographic extent of FC to specific ROIs were analyzed. Most patients achieved clinically significant improvement. Motor FC strength and topographic extent decreased following BCI therapy. Motor recovery correlated with reductions in motor FC strength across the entire motor network. These findings suggest BCI-mediated interventions may reverse pathologic strengthening of dysfunctional network interactions. |
Kim, Min Gyu; Lim, Hyunmi; Lee, Hye Sun; Han, In Jun; Ku, Jeonghun; Kang, Youn Joo In: Journal of Neural Engineering, vol. 19, no. 3, 2022. @article{kim2022brain, Objective. Action observation (AO) combined with brain–computer interface (BCI) technology enhances cortical activation. Peripheral electrical stimulation (PES) increases corticospinal excitability, thereby activating brain plasticity. To maximize motor recovery, we assessed the effects of BCI-AO combined with PES on corticospinal plasticity. Approach. Seventeen patients with chronic hemiplegic stroke and 17 healthy subjects were recruited. The participants watched a video of repetitive grasping actions with four different tasks for 15 min: (A) AO alone; (B) AO + PES; (C) BCI-AO + continuous PES; and (D) BCI-AO + triggered PES. PES was applied at the ulnar nerve of the wrist. The tasks were performed in a random order at least three days apart. We assessed the latency and amplitude of motor evoked potentials (MEPs). We examined changes in MEP parameters pre-and post-exercise across the four tasks in the first dorsal interosseous muscle of the dominant hand (healthy subjects) and affected hand (stroke patients). Main results. The decrease in MEP latency and increase in MEP amplitude after the four tasks were significant in both groups. The increase in MEP amplitude was sustained for 20 min after tasks B, C, and D in both groups. The increase in MEP amplitude was significant between tasks A vs. B, B vs. C, and C vs. D. The estimated mean difference in MEP amplitude post-exercise was the highest for A and D in both groups. Significance. The results indicate that BCI-AO combined with PES is superior to AO alone or AO + PES for facilitating corticospinal plasticity in both healthy subjects and patients with stroke. Furthermore, this study supports the idea that synchronized activation of cortical and peripheral networks can enhance neuroplasticity after stroke. We suggest that the BCI-AO paradigm and PES could provide a novel neurorehabilitation strategy for patients with stroke. |
Rustamov, Nabi; Humphries, Joseph; Carter, Alexandre; Leuthardt, Eric C Theta-gamma coupling as a cortical biomarker of brain-computer interface mediated motor recovery in chronic stroke Journal Article In: Brain Communications, vol. 4, iss. 3, 2022. @article{rustamov2022thetab, Chronic stroke patients with upper-limb motor disabilities are now beginning to see treatment options that were not previously available. To date, the two options recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration include vagus nerve stimulation and brain–computer interface therapy. While the mechanisms for vagus nerve stimulation have been well defined, the mechanisms underlying brain–computer interface-driven motor rehabilitation are largely unknown. Given that cross-frequency coupling has been associated with a wide variety of higher-order functions involved in learning and memory, we hypothesized this rhythm-specific mechanism would correlate with the functional improvements effected by a brain–computer interface. This study investigated whether the motor improvements in chronic stroke patients induced with a brain–computer interface therapy are associated with alterations in phase–amplitude coupling, a type of cross-frequency coupling. Seventeen chronic hemiparetic stroke patients used a robotic hand orthosis controlled with contralesional motor cortical signals measured with EEG. Patients regularly performed a therapeutic brain–computer interface task for 12 weeks. Resting-state EEG recordings and motor function data were acquired before initiating brain–computer interface therapy and once every 4 weeks after the therapy. Changes in phase–amplitude coupling values were assessed and correlated with motor function improvements. To establish whether coupling between two different frequency bands was more functionally important than either of those rhythms alone, we calculated power spectra as well. We found that theta–gamma coupling was enhanced bilaterally at the motor areas and showed significant correlations across brain–computer interface therapy sessions. Importantly, an increase in theta–gamma coupling positively correlated with motor recovery over the course of rehabilitation. The sources of theta–gamma coupling increase following brain–computer interface therapy were mostly located in the hand regions of the primary motor cortex on the left and right cerebral hemispheres. Beta–gamma coupling decreased bilaterally at the frontal areas following the therapy, but these effects did not correlate with motor recovery. Alpha–gamma coupling was not altered by brain–computer interface therapy. Power spectra did not change significantly over the course of the brain–computer interface therapy. The significant functional improvement in chronic stroke patients induced by brain–computer interface therapy was strongly correlated with increased theta–gamma coupling in bihemispheric motor regions. These findings support the notion that specific cross-frequency coupling dynamics in the brain likely play a mechanistic role in mediating motor recovery in the chronic phase of stroke recovery. |
Klee, Daniel; Memmott, Tab; Smedemark-Margulies, Niklas; Celik, Basak; Erdogmus, Deniz; Oken, Barry S Target-Related Alpha Attenuation in a Brain-Computer Interface Rapid Serial Visual Presentation Calibration Journal Article In: Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, vol. 16, 2022. @article{klee2022target, This study evaluated the feasibility of using occipitoparietal alpha activity to drive target/non-target classification in a brain-computer interface (BCI) for communication. EEG data were collected from 12 participants who completed BCI Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP) calibrations at two different presentation rates: 1 and 4 Hz. Attention-related changes in posterior alpha activity were compared to two event-related potentials (ERPs): N200 and P300. Machine learning approaches evaluated target/non-target classification accuracy using alpha activity. Results indicated significant alpha attenuation following target letters at both 1 and 4 Hz presentation rates, though this effect was significantly reduced in the 4 Hz condition. Target-related alpha attenuation was not correlated with coincident N200 or P300 target effects. Classification using posterior alpha activity was above chance and benefitted from individualized tuning procedures. These findings suggest that target-related posterior alpha attenuation is detectable in a BCI RSVP calibration and that this signal could be leveraged in machine learning algorithms used for RSVP or comparable attention-based BCI paradigms. |
2021 |
Kim, Soram; Lee, Seungyun; Kang, Hyunsuk; Kim, Sion; Ahn, Minkyu P300 Brain--Computer Interface-Based Drone Control in Virtual and Augmented Reality Journal Article In: Sensors, vol. 21, no. 17, pp. 5765, 2021. @article{kim2021p300, Since the emergence of head-mounted displays (HMDs), researchers have attempted to introduce virtual and augmented reality (VR, AR) in brain–computer interface (BCI) studies. However, there is a lack of studies that incorporate both AR and VR to compare the performance in the two environments. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a BCI application that can be used in both VR and AR to allow BCI performance to be compared in the two environments. In this study, we developed an opensource-based drone control application using P300-based BCI, which can be used in both VR and AR. Twenty healthy subjects participated in the experiment with this application. They were asked to control the drone in two environments and filled out questionnaires before and after the experiment. We found no significant (p > 0.05) difference in online performance (classification accuracy and amplitude/latency of P300 component) and user experience (satisfaction about time length, program, environment, interest, difficulty, immersion, and feeling of self-control) between VR and AR. This indicates that the P300 BCI paradigm is relatively reliable and may work well in various situations |
Lim, Hyunmi; Ku, Jeonghun Superior Facilitation of an Action Observation Network by Congruent Character Movements in Brain--Computer Interface Action-Observation Games Journal Article In: Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, vol. 24, no. 8, pp. 566–572, 2021. @article{lim2021superior, Action observation (AO) is a promising strategy for promoting motor function in neural rehabilitation. Recently, brain–computer interface (BCI)-AO game rehabilitation, which combines AO therapy with BCI technology, has been introduced to improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation. This approach can improve motor learning by providing feedback, which can be interactive in an observation task, and the game contents of the BCI-AO game paradigm can affect rehabilitation. In this study, the effects of congruent rather than incongruent feedback in a BCI-AO game on mirror neurons were investigated. Specifically, the mu suppression with congruent and incongruent BCI-AO games was measured in 17 healthy adults. The mu suppression in the central motor cortex was significantly higher with the congruent BCI-AO game than with the incongruent one. In addition, the satisfaction evaluation results were excellent for the congruent case. These results support the fact that providing feedback congruent with the motion of an action video facilitates mirror neuron activity and can offer useful guidelines for the design of BCI-AO games for rehabilitation |
Zhang, Dong Brain-Controlled Robotic Arm Based on Adaptive FBCCA Conference Human Brain and Artificial Intelligence: Second International Workshop, HBAI 2020, Held in Conjunction with IJCAI-PRICAI 2020, Yokohama, Japan, January 7, 2021, Revised Selected Papers, Springer Nature 2021. @conference{zhang2021brain, The SSVEP-BCI system usually uses a fixed calculation time and a static window stop method to decode the EEG signal, which reduces the efficiency of the system. In response to this problem, this paper uses an adaptive FBCCA algorithm, which uses Bayesian estimation to dynamically find the optimal data length for result prediction, adapts to the differences between different trials and different individuals, and effectively improves system operation effectiveness. At the same time, through this method, this paper constructs a brain-controlled robotic arm grasping life assistance system based on adaptive FBCCA. In this paper, we selected 20 subjects and conducted a total of 400 experiments. A large number of experiments have verified that the system is available and the average recognition success rate is 95.5%. This also proves that the system can be applied to actual scenarios. Help the handicapped to use the brain to control the mechanical arm to grab the needed items to assist in daily life and improve the quality of life. In the future, SSVEP’s adaptive FBCCA decoding algorithm can be combined with the motor imaging brain-computer interface decoding algorithm to build a corresponding system to help patients with upper or lower limb movement disorders caused by stroke diseases to recover, and reshape the brain and Control connection of limbs. |
Eldeeb, Safaa; Susam, Busra T; Akcakaya, Murat; Conner, Caitlin M; White, Susan W; Mazefsky, Carla A Trial by trial EEG based BCI for distress versus non distress classification in individuals with ASD Journal Article In: Scientific Reports, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 1–13, 2021. @article{eldeeb2021trial, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is often accompanied by impaired emotion regulation (ER). There has been increasing emphasis on developing evidence-based approaches to improve ER in ASD. Electroencephalography (EEG) has shown success in reducing ASD symptoms when used in neurofeedback-based interventions. Also, certain EEG components are associated with ER. Our overarching goal is to develop a technology that will use EEG to monitor real-time changes in ER and perform intervention based on these changes. As a first step, an EEG-based brain computer interface that is based on an Affective Posner task was developed to identify patterns associated with ER on a single trial basis, and EEG data collected from 21 individuals with ASD. Accordingly, our aim in this study is to investigate EEG features that could differentiate between distress and non-distress conditions. Specifically, we investigate if the EEG time-locked to the visual feedback presentation could be used to classify between WIN (non-distress) and LOSE (distress) conditions in a game with deception. Results showed that the extracted EEG features could differentiate between WIN and LOSE conditions (average accuracy of 81%), LOSE and rest-EEG conditions (average accuracy 94.8%), and WIN and rest-EEG conditions (average accuracy 94.9%). |
Memmott, Tab; Koçanaoğullari, Aziz; Lawhead, Matthew; Klee, Daniel; Dudy, Shiran; Fried-Oken, Melanie; Oken, Barry BciPy: brain--computer interface software in Python Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interfaces, pp. 1-18, 2021. @article{memmott2021bcipy, There are high technological and software demands associated with conducting Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) research. In order to accelerate the development and accessibility of BCIs, it is worthwhile to focus on open-source and community desired tooling. Python, a prominent computer language, has emerged as a language of choice for many research and engineering purposes. In this article, BciPy, an open-source, Python-based software for conducting BCI research is presented. It was developed with a focus on restoring communication using Event-Related Potential (ERP) spelling interfaces; however, it may be used for other non-spelling and non-ERP BCI paradigms. Major modules in this system include support for data acquisition, data queries, stimuli presentation, signal processing, signal viewing and modeling, language modeling, task building, and a simple Graphical User Interface (GUI). |
2020 |
Son, Ji Eun; Choi, Hyoseon; Lim, Hyunmi; Ku, Jeonghun In: Technology and Health Care, vol. 28, no. S1, pp. 509-519, 2020. @article{son2020development, BACKGROUND: This study focused on developing an upper limb rehabilitation program. In this regard, a steady state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) triggered brain computer interface (BCI)-functional electrical stimulation (FES) based action observation game featuring a flickering action video was designed. OBJECTIVE: In particular, the synergetic effect of the game was investigated by combining the action observation paradigm with BCI based FES. METHODS: The BCI-FES system was contrasted under two conditions: with flickering action video and flickering noise video. In this regard, 11 right-handed subjects aged between 22–27 years were recruited. The differences in brain activation in response to the two conditions were examined. RESULTS: The results indicate that T3 and P3 channels exhibited greater Mu suppression in 8–13 Hz for the action video than the noise video. Furthermore, T4, C4, and P4 channels indicated augmented high beta (21–30 Hz) for the action in contrast to the noise video. Finally, T4 indicated suppressed low beta (14–20 Hz) for the action video in contrast to the noise video. CONCLUSION: The flickering action video based BCI-FES system induced a more synergetic effect on cortical activation than the flickering noise based system. |
2019 |
Choi, Hyoseon; Lim, Hyunmi; Kim, Joon Woo; Kang, Youn Joo; Ku, Jeonghun Brain computer interface-based action observation game enhances mu suppression in patients with stroke Journal Article In: Electronics, vol. 8, no. 12, pp. 1466, 2019. @article{choi2019brain, Action observation (AO), based on the mirror neuron theory, is a promising strategy to promote motor cortical activation in neurorehabilitation. Brain computer interface (BCI) can detect a user’s intention and provide them with brain state-dependent feedback to assist with patient rehabilitation. We investigated the effects of a combined BCI-AO game on power of mu band attenuation in stroke patients. Nineteen patients with subacute stroke were recruited. A BCI-AO game provided real-time feedback to participants regarding their attention to a flickering action video using steady-state visual-evoked potentials. All participants watched a video of repetitive grasping actions under two conditions: (1) BCI-AO game and (2) conventional AO, in random order. In the BCI-AO game, feedback on participants’ observation scores and observation time was provided. In conventional AO, a non-flickering video and no feedback were provided. The magnitude of mu suppression in the central motor, temporal, parietal, and occipital areas was significantly higher in the BCI-AO game than in the conventional AO. The magnitude of mu suppression was significantly higher in the BCI-AO game than in the conventional AO both in the affected and unaffected hemispheres. These results support the facilitatory effects of the BCI-AO game on mu suppression over conventional AO |
Goethem, Sander Van; Adema, Kimberly; van Bergen, Britt; Viaene, Emilia; Wenborn, Eva; Verwulgen, Stijn A Test Setting to Compare Spatial Awareness on Paper and in Virtual Reality Using EEG Signals Conference International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, Springer 2019. @conference{van2019test, Spatial awareness and the ability to analyze spatial objects, manipulate them and assess the effect thereof, is a key competence for industrial designers. Skills are gradually built up throughout most educational design programs, starting with exercises on technical drawings and reconstruction or classification of spatial objects from isometric projections and CAD practice. The accuracy in which spatial assignments are conducted and the amount of effort required to fulfill them, highly depend on individual insight, interests and persistence. Thus each individual has its own struggles and learning curve to master the structure of spatial objects in aesthetic and functional design. Virtual reality (VR) is a promising tool to expose subjects to objects with complex spatial structure, and even manipulate and design spatial characteristics of such objects. The advantage of displaying spatial objects in VR, compared to representations by projecting them on a screen or paper, could be that subjects could more accurately assess spatial properties of and object and its full geometrical and/or mechanical complexity, when exposed to that object in VR. Immersive experience of spatial objects, could not only result in faster acquiring spatial insights, but also potentially with less effort. We propose that acquiring spatial insight in VR could leverage individual differences in skills and talents and that under this proposition VR can be used as a promising tool in design education. A first step in underpinning this hypothesis, is acquisition of cognitive workload that can be used and compared both in VR and in a classical teaching context. We use electroencephalography (EEG) to assess brain activity through wearable plug and play headset (Wearable Sensing-DSI 7). This equipment is combined with VR (Oculus). We use QStates classification software to compare brain waves when conducting spatial assessments on paper and in VR. This gives us a measure of cognitive workload, as a ratio of a resulting from subject records with a presumed ‘high’ workload. A total number of eight records of subjects were suited for comparison. No significant difference was found between EEG signals (paried t-test, p = 0.57). However the assessment of cognitive workload was successfully validated through a questionnaire. The method could be used to set up reliable constructs for learning techniques for spatial insights. |
Lim, Hyunmi; Ku, Jeonghun Multiple-command single-frequency SSVEP-based BCI system using flickering action video Journal Article In: Journal of Neuroscience Methods, vol. 314, pp. 21-27, 2019. @article{lim2019multiple, Background The number of commands in a brain–computer interface (BCI) system is important. This study proposes a new BCI technique to increase the number of commands in a single BCI system without loss of accuracy. New method We expected that a flickering action video with left and right elbow movements could simultaneously activate the different pattern of event-related desynchronization (ERD) according to the video contents (e.g., left or right) and steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP). The classification accuracy to discriminate left, right, and rest states was compared under the three following feature combinations: SSVEP power (19–21 Hz), Mu power (8–13 Hz), and simultaneous SSVEP and Mu power. Results The SSVEP feature could discriminate the stimulus condition, regardless of left or right, from the rest condition, while the Mu feature discriminated left or right, but was relatively poor in discriminating stimulus from rest. However, combining the SSVEP and Mu features, which were evoked by the stimulus with a single frequency, showed superior performance for discriminating all the stimuli among rest, left, or right. Comparison with the existing method The video contents could activate the ERD differently, and the flickering component increased its accuracy, such that it revealed a better performance to discriminate when considering together. Conclusions This paradigm showed possibility of increasing performance in terms of accuracy and number of commands with a single frequency by applying flickering action video paradigm and applicability to rehabilitation systems used by patients to facilitate their mirror neuron systems while training. |
2018 |
Pereira, Arnaldo; Padden, Dereck; Jantz, Jay; Lin, Kate; Alcaide-Aguirre, Ramses Cross-Subject EEG Event-Related Potential Classification for Brain-Computer Interfaces Using Residual Networks Journal Article In: 2018. @article{pereira2018cross, EEG event-related potentials, and the P300 signal in particular, are promising modalities for brain-computer interfaces (BCI). But the nonstationarity of EEG signals and their differences across individuals have made it difficult to implement classifiers that can determine user intent without having to be retrained or calibrated for each new user and sometimes even each session. This is a major impediment to the development of consumer BCI. Recently, the EEG BCI literature has begun to apply convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for classification, but experiments have largely been limited to training and testing on single subjects. In this paper, we report a study in which EEG data were recorded from 66 subjects in a visual oddball task in virtual reality. Using wide residual networks (WideResNets), we obtain state-of-the-art performance on a test set composed of data from all 66 subjects together. Additionally, a minimal preprocessing stream to convert EEG data into square images for CNN input while adding regularization is presented and shown to be viable. This study also provides some guidance on network architecture parameters based on experiments with different models. Our results show that it may possible with enough data to train a classifier for EEG-based BCIs that can generalize across individuals without the need for individual training or calibration. |
Memmott, Tab; Eddy, Brandon; Dabiri, Sina; Erdogmus, Deniz; Fried-Oken, Melanie; Oken, Barry Automated and self-report measures of drowsiness over successive calibrations in a brain-computer interface for communication Journal Article In: Clinical Neurophysiology, vol. 129, pp. e61–e62, 2018. @article{memmott2018t154, Brain computer interfaces (BCI) generally require the user to maintain an attentive state. Potential end-users with severe speech and physical impairments may have limited communication abilities to report their current state, thus an automatic calculation of state may improve performance. It’s not yet known if an effective automatic calculation of drowsiness can be detected reliably in end-user populations or healthy controls. |
2015 |
Kang, Dayoon; Kim, Jinsoo; Jang, Dong-Pyo; Cho, Yang Seok; Kim, Sung-Phil Investigation of engagement of viewers in movie trailers using electroencephalography Journal Article In: Brain-Computer Interfaces, vol. 2, no. 4, pp. 193–201, 2015. @article{kang2015investigation, Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have been focused on providing direct communications to the disabled. Recently, BCI researchers have expanded BCI applications to non-medical uses and categorized them as active BCI, reactive BCI, and passive BCI. Neurocinematics, a new application of reactive BCIs, aims to understand viewers’ cognitive and affective responses to movies from neural activity, providing more objective information than traditional subjective self-reports. However, studies on analytical indices for neurocinematics have verified their indices by comparisons with self-reports. To overcome this contradictory issue, we proposed using an independent psychophysical index to evaluate a neural engagement index (NEI). We made use of the secondary task reaction time (STRT), which measures participants’ engagement in a primary task by their reaction time to a secondary task; here, responding to a tactile stimulus was the secondary task and watching a movie trailer was the primary task. NEI was developed as changes in the difference between frontal beta and alpha activity of EEG. We evaluated movie trailers using NEI, STRT, and self-reports and found a significant correlation between STRT and NEI across trailers but no correlation between any of the self-report results and STRT or NEI. Our results suggest that NEI developed for neurocinematics may conform well with more objective psychophysical assessments but not with subjective self-reports. |
2009 |
Sellers, Eric W; Turner, Peter; Sarnacki, William A; McManus, Tobin; Vaughan, Theresa M; Matthews, Robert A Novel Dry Electrode for Brain-Computer Interface Conference International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, Springer 2009. @conference{sellers2009novel, A brain-computer interface is a device that uses signals recorded from the brain to directly control a computer. In the last few years, P300-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have proven an effective and reliable means of communication for people with severe motor disabilities such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Despite this fact, relatively few individuals have benefited from currently available BCI technology. Independent BCI use requires easily acquired, good-quality electroencephalographic (EEG) signals maintained over long periods in less-than-ideal electrical environments. Conventional, wet-sensor, electrodes require careful application. Faulty or inadequate preparation, noisy environments, or gel evaporation can result in poor signal quality. Poor signal quality produces poor user performance, system downtime, and user and caregiver frustration. This study demonstrates that a hybrid dry electrode sensor array (HESA) performs as well as traditional wet electrodes and may help propel BCI technology to a widely accepted alternative mode of communication. |
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