New computer system allows patients of no control on heir bodies to communicate
BBC – Patients with absolutely no control over their body have finally been able to communicate, say scientists.
A brain-computer interface was used to read the thoughts of patients to answer basic yes-or-no questions.
One man was able to repeatedly refuse permission for his daughter to get married.
The study on four patients in Germany- published in PLOS Biology – also showed they were happy despite the effects of being “locked-in”.
The patients all had advanced forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, in which the brain loses the ability to control muscles.
It eventually traps people in their own body – they are able to think, but incapable of moving or talking.
When they become “locked in”, it can still be possible to develop ways of communication using eye movements.
But all the patients in the study were “completely locked in” and could not even move their eyes.
How to submit an Op-Ed: Libyan Express accepts opinion articles on a wide range of topics. Submissions may be sent to oped@libyanexpress.com. Please include ‘Op-Ed’ in the subject line.
- New evidence strengthens case against Gaddafi-era crimes - November 20, 2024
- Mystery man poses as presidential envoy in Libya - November 20, 2024
- Iran denounces new UK and EU sanctions - November 20, 2024