Dr. Curtis Cripe on Connecting the Brain to Computers

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Can Brain-Computer Interfaces Exist?

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Researchers, scientists, and engineers are getting ever-so-closer to developing a brain-to-computer interface. The plan is to put people's thoughts in digitized form, which is only seen in science fiction films. Dr. Curtis Cripe has mentioned that this is especially helpful for people who cannot communicate, such as patients struggling with complete locked-in syndrome.

According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, researchers and engineers have tried to see if an interface that uses functional near-infrared spectroscopy, or NIRS, would work. Through this method, they would measure brain hemodynamic responses usually associated with neuronal activity.

The human brain is an incredibly complex and intricate organ, and scientists have long been exploring ways to connect it with technology to enhance its abilities. One such endeavor involves using neuroelectrical technology like an EEG to create a brain-computer interface. With this technology, it was hoped that patients suffering from completely locked-in syndrome could communicate with the outside world, giving them a voice and a means to interact with loved ones. Unfortunately, experiments with this approach ultimately failed to yield the desired results. Despite these setbacks, scientists will continue exploring new ways to connect the brain with technology and create life-changing breakthroughs for those suffering from debilitating conditions.

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This latest technique, though, Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions, seemed to give hope to the study. It is a non-invasive brain-computer interface that combines NIRS and EEG technologies. This method measures frontocentral blood oxygen levels and electrical changes in the brain.

Brain-computer interfaces have helped patients communicate; however, Dr. Curtis Cripe says that the NIRS is the only technique that works on patients with complete lock-in syndrome.

It also comes as very welcome news for people unable to communicate because of other health reasons, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS, which can lead to paralysis later, or those paralyzed from a stroke or a spinal cord injury.

Finally, Dr. Curtis Cripe points out that this is just the beginning, and studies on brain-computer interfaces are projected to have even broader applications in the future.