8.7.1 Brain-Computer Interfaces

• Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) facilitate direct communication between brain activity and external devices
• What is the first step in the process of a BCI transforming brain activity into external device action?

  Brain activity
• Brain activity in BCIs refers to electrical and chemical processes in the brain that can be detected
• External device in BCIs refers to the target system controlled by the BCI, such as a computer, prosthetic, or virtual reality environment
• What are the two main types of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)?

  Invasive and non-invasive
• Invasive BCIs require surgical implantation of electrodes directly into the brain
• Match the type of BCI with its characteristic:

  Invasive BCI ↔️ Higher signal quality

  Non-Invasive BCI ↔️ Safe and inexpensive
• EEG records electrical activity using electrodes on the scalp
• Which BCI technique measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow?

  fMRI
• Non-invasive BCIs offer lower signal resolution compared to invasive BCIs
• Match the medical application of BCIs with its benefit:

  Motor Rehabilitation ↔️ Restores movement in paralyzed patients

  Communication Aids ↔️ Enables speech-impaired communication

  Neuro-modulation ↔️ Treats neurological disorders

  Cognitive Enhancement ↔️ Improves memory and focus
• What is one invasive BCI technique used in medical applications?

  Electroencephalography (EEG)
• Non-medical uses of BCIs include gaming, workplace productivity, education, and entertainment
• Mind-controlled characters are an example of BCIs in gaming
• What non-invasive BCI technique is commonly used in non-medical applications?

  EEG
• What does EEG stand for in the context of BCIs?

  Electroencephalography
• Non-medical BCIs primarily aim to restore lost functions.

  False
• BCIs in gaming provide immersive experiences and enhanced control
• Match the non-medical application area with its benefit:

  Workplace Productivity ↔️ Increased efficiency

  Education ↔️ Enhanced learning

  Entertainment ↔️ New forms of media
• What is the primary concern related to privacy in BCIs?

  Protecting brain data
• Ensuring user control over their brain signals is essential for preserving autonomy.
• Promoting fair access to BCIs involves addressing cost barriers
• Steps in the BCI communication process

  1️⃣ Brain Activity

  2️⃣ Signal Processing

  3️⃣ Control Commands

  4️⃣ External Device Action
• What is defined as electrical and chemical processes in the brain?

  Brain activity
• Invasive BCIs require surgical implantation of electrodes
• Which BCI technique records electrical activity using electrodes on the scalp?

  EEG
• BCIs can restore movement in paralyzed patients through motor rehabilitation.
• Match the medical application area with its benefit:

  Communication Aids ↔️ Enables speech generation

  Neuro-modulation ↔️ Treats neurological disorders

  Cognitive Enhancement ↔️ Improves focus and memory
• What is the primary goal of BCIs in communication aids?

  Enable speech
• BCIs in gaming provide immersive experiences and hands-free control
• Ethical concerns in BCIs include privacy, autonomy, fair access, and security.
• How can reliance on BCIs affect personal identity negatively?

  Altered self-concept
• Match the impact area with its negative effect:

  Autonomy ↔️ Reduced cognitive liberty

  Decision-Making ↔️ Vulnerability to external control

  Personal Identity ↔️ Disconnected from one's body
• Measures to protect BCI data

  1️⃣ Encryption

  2️⃣ Authentication protocols

  3️⃣ Access controls

  4️⃣ Regular security audits
• What is one financial barrier to accessing BCIs?

  High device costs
• Affordable pricing models can make BCIs more accessible to lower-income individuals.
• What is crucial for BCIs to avoid exacerbating social inequalities?

  Accessibility and equity
• BCI data is highly sensitive and can reveal personal thoughts and emotions
• Informed and voluntary consent is essential for BCI use to avoid diminished autonomy.
• Match the key terms with their definitions:

  Brain activity ↔️ Electrical and chemical processes in the brain

  External device ↔️ The system controlled by the BCI