BCI-controlled wheelchairs: end-users' perceptions, needs, and expectations, an interview-based study.

PURPOSE: Brain-computer interface (BCI)-controlled wheelchairs have the potential to improve the independence of people with mobility impairments. The low uptake of BCI devices has been linked to a lack of knowledge among researchers of the needs of end-users that should influence BCI development. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study used semi-structured interviews to learn about the perceptions, needs, and expectations of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients with regards to a BCI-controlled wheelchair. Topics discussed in the interview include: paradigms, shared control, safety, robustness, channel selection, hardware, and experimental design. The interviews were recorded and then transcribed. Analysis was carried out using coding based on grounded theory principles. RESULTS: The majority of participants had a positive view of BCI-controlled wheelchair technology and were willing to use the technology. Core issues were raised regarding safety, cost and aesthetics. Interview discussions were linked to state-of-the-art BCI technology. The results challenge the current reliance of researchers on the motor-imagery paradigm by suggesting end-users expect highly intuitive paradigms. There also needs to be a stronger focus on obstacle avoidance and safety features in BCI wheelchairs. Finally, the development of control approaches that can be personalized for individual users may be instrumental for widespread adoption of these devices. CONCLUSIONS: This study, based on interviews with SCI patients, indicates that BCI-controlled wheelchairs are a promising assistive technology that would be well received by end-users. Recommendations for a more person-centered design of BCI controlled wheelchairs are made and clear avenues for future research are identified.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONBrain-computer interface (BCI)-controlled wheelchairs are a promising assistive technology. The majority of participants had positive views of these devices and showed a willingness to try out such a device.Concerns centered on safety, cost and aesthetics.Integrated obstacle avoidance was viewed positively by most of the participants, but some had a negative view, expressing concerns about its safety, or reduced autonomy. Customizable control options should thus be integrated to cater for the needs of different individuals.

Early urological complications after kidney transplantation: An overview.

Urological complications, especially urine leaks, remain the most common type of surgical complication in the early post-transplant period. Despite major advances in the field of transplantation, a small minority of kidney transplants are still being lost due to urological problems. Many of these complications can be traced back to the time of retrieval and implantation. Serial ultrasound examination of the transplanted graft in the early post-operative period is of key importance for early detection. The prognosis is generally excellent if recognized and managed in a timely fashion. The purpose of this narrative review is to discuss the different presentations, compare various ureterovesical anastomosis techniques and provide a basic overview for the management of post-transplant urological complications.

Brain Symmetry Index in Healthy and Stroke Patients for Assessment and Prognosis.

Objective. Quantitative neurophysiological signal parameters are of value in predicting motor recovery after stroke. The novel role of EEG-derived brain symmetry index for motor function prognostication in the subacute phase after stroke is explored. Methods. Ten male stroke patients and ten matched healthy controls were recruited. Motor function was first assessed clinically using the MRC score, its derivative Motricity Index, and the Fugl-Meyer assessment score. EEG was subsequently recorded first with subjects at rest and then during hand grasping motions, triggered by visual cues. Brain symmetry index (BSI) was used to identify the differences in EEG-quantified interhemispheric cortical power asymmetry observable in healthy versus cortical and subcortical stroke patients. Subsequently, any correlation between BSI and motor function was explored. Results. BSI was found to be significantly higher in stroke subjects compared to healthy controls (p = 0.023). The difference in BSI was more pronounced in the cortical stroke subgroup (p = 0.016). BSI showed only a mild general decrease on repeated monthly recording. Notably, a statistically significant correlation was observed between early BSI and Fugl-Meyer score later in recovery (p < 0.050). Conclusions. Brain symmetry index is increased in the subacute poststroke phase and correlates with motor function 1-2 months after stroke.