Graduate Students
Stephanie Liddle
M.H.Sc. Candidate
Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (Clinical Engineering), University of Toronto
Advisor: Dr. Tom Chau
E-mail: steph[dot]liddle[at]utoronto[dot]ca
Education & Training:
Stephanie completed her Bachelors of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University in 2007. During her undergraduate work, she gained an interest in the role technology can play in rehabilitation. She began her Clinical Engineering master’s work in the fall of 2007.
Research Title:
Investigating detection of prefrontal cortical activation through frequency domain near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in real-time during a one-on-n selection task.
Research Abstract:
Individuals who are ‘locked-in’ have little freedom or independence. They are unable to communicate their desires to their care-givers and although cognitively aware can not interact with their environment. Brain computer interfaces can assist individuals by interpreting physiological signals and using changes in the signal to control external devices.
Near infrared spectroscopy can be used as a non-invasive, brain computer interface (BCI) to assist locked-in individuals to communicate. NIRS applies an infrared beam to the scalp and measures the amount of light being absorbed by the brain tissue. As brain activity in the region occurs, more oxygenated hemoglobin will accumulate in the area, and the amount of light being absorbed will change. Changes in absorption levels will indicate a change in brain activity. The purpose of this research thesis will be to determine if a NIRS device can provide a robust access pathway between the prefrontal cortex and an external communication device.
The prefrontal cortex of the brain is responsible for a number of thought processes including; development of abstract ideas and recalling information. During a selection task, a trained individual may be able to activate this region when their preferred choice is shown or told to them.
The goal of the research project is to determine if a NIRS device is able to relay a signal produced by an individual trained to control activation of their prefrontal cortex. If successful, the research will be tested and implemented on an individual who is unable to communicate. NIRS have the potential to improve individuals’ ability to integrate more fully into society, become more independent and lead a fuller life.
