Towards Restoring Complex Movement After Paralysis: Algorithm Development With Healthy Participants

BEHAVIORAL

Participants will perform experimental tasks while undergoing non-invasive activity recordings, which may include EEG, EMG, IMUs, fNIRS, eye gaze, or pupillometry.

Participants may be prompted to imagine, attempt, or perform actions while a task is being performed on a computer, robotic arm, wheelchair, or exoskeleton. Participants may also autonomously perform actions to control each end effector. Participants may be asked to control a cursor to acquire a target or multiple targets. Participants may be asked to pick and place various objects, interact with articulated objects, or perform other motor tasks using a robotic manipulator. Participants may be asked to navigate a wheelchair.

Normalized Performance

Time frame: Usually one visit (Day 1), with possible additional study visits usually within a month.

The normalized performance of the non-invasive assistive interface on a task. Non-invasive signals, which may include electroencephalography, electromyography, functional near infrared spectroscopy, inertial measurements units, eye movements, pupil size, and speech are input into an algorithm that controls an end effector's movements. The end effector, which may be a computer cursor, robotic manipulator, wheelchair, or other assistive device, is used to perform a motor task. The normalized performance is derived from the the performance of the end effector on the motor task, reflecting the overall performance of the non-invasive assistive interface. The minimum value is zero. There is no maximum value, although the values are usually less than 1. Higher is better.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.