Functional neuroimaging systems are becoming more lightweight and portable in nature, which is valuable to conduct studies in naturalistic - such as homes, schools, and offices – and low-resource settings. However, most portable neuroimaging systems require skilled experts to ensure accurate functionality and reliable data collection. Our group has developed a new strategy for neuroimager alignment and coupling evaluation (NACE) that leverages augmented reality to allow lay users to independently ensure that an fNIRS device is correctly aligned and properly coupled to their scalp. The strategy would enable widespread adoption of prefrontal cortex neuroimaging data collected in naturalistic and low-resource settings.
KEYWORDS: Design, Extrusion, Signal to noise ratio, Head, Signal attenuation, Photography, Near infrared spectroscopy, Imaging systems, Electronic components, Windows
The presence of human hair in the area of sensing interest during functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) procedures is a known factor that can prevent proper coupling with the scalp, resulting in signal loss and a reduction in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Researchers struggle to find a technique for hair clearance that is accessible, simple and time efficient to operate, and applicable to hair of many different characteristics – including length, shaft thickness, curl or coil, and density. Our group has developed a novel, mechanical attachment compatible with commercial fNIRS systems to facilitate rapid hair clearance and better through-hair SNR for a range of hair types and textures, promoting wider subject inclusivity. Our attachment, named the “Mini Comb,” comprises three parts: a twistable cover, a support piece and six sliding legs. The twistable cover allows the design to be operated by a simple twisting mechanism and has a versatile design that allows it to be deployed in multiple commercial systems. The support piece serves to keep the Mini Comb system connected and in place. The sliding legs move hair strands away from a central region of interest to clear a path for signal acquisition and proper electronics contact with the scalp. We have developed five unique designs for the sliding legs to achieve hair clearance in a wide variety of hair types and subject populations. Results obtained with wigged mannequins show the Mini Comb designs are able to create hair clearance across these variable hair types.
Neuroimaging studies struggle from inter- and intra-subject variability of collected data. To overcome these barriers to statistical significance, researchers are pursuing naturalistic neuroimaging to increase the statistical power of their investigations. Although numerous devices have become available for prefrontal cortex imaging, fNIRS systems continue to struggle with significant weight (>200g) and dependence on experts for setup. Our group has developed an ergonomic fNIRS headset and an accompanying Android augmented reality (AR) app for system setup by lay users. The combination of low-cost technology with user-friendly guidance for accurate setup will enable new studies in naturalistic conditions.
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