Winners
$200 Cash Prize

Relationships between cognitive functioning and power wheelchair driving among adults: a cross sectional exploratory study
Lead Author:  François Routhier
Additional Authors: Alice Pellichero, Krista Best, Pauline Coignard, Eric Sorita, François Routhier
University:  Universite Laval

Abstract: Health care professionals reported cognitive functioning as their top concern when providing a PWC. The objectives were to (1) explore the relationships between cognitive functioning and PWC performance, and (2) explore differences in PWC performance between levels of cognitive impairment.

​​​Modification to virtual implementation of a community-based stroke exercise program called: fitness and mobility exercise
Lead Author:  Marie-Andree Gagnon
Additional Authors: Marie-Andree Gagnon, Krista Best, Charles Batcho
University:  Universite Laval

Abstract:  Physical activity increases quality of life and reduces disability after stroke. An evidence-based physical activity program specific to stroke, called Fitness and Mobility Exercise (FAME), effectively improves physical function and psychosocial health when delivered in community. However, stroke survivors often experience barriers to accessing community-based programs due to transportation, accessibility, cost, and weather conditions. Moreover, recent pandemic restrictions have further limited access to community programs.

Using a novel analysis paradigm for classification of Absolutely Volitional Covert Visuospatial Attention (AV-CVSA) direction through EEG signals: a pilot study
Lead Author:  Maysam Ardehali
University:  University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Abstract: One of the most consequential outcomes of severe motor impairment caused by neurological diseases, is the loss of communication and interaction capabilities. For example, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis patients will lose motor function almost entirely, including speech. Current assistive technologies are unable to address the needs of these individuals without invasive procedures. In this pilot study, we assess the feasibility of classifying the direction of Covert Visuospatial Attention and using it for a dichotomous control paradigm. Aside from a novel paradigm (providing no visual cues or prompts to direct attention), we used a novel data analysis procedure to reduce the computational load and enable the design of a real-time system for communication and control. Our analysis procedure afforded us a classification performance of at least 70%, satisfying the criteria for a robust Brain-Computer Interface, as suggested by several pioneers in the field.

Design of a tremor simulator device
Lead Author:  Olmer Alvarado 
University:  University of the District of Columbia

Abstract: In recent years, researchers have performed multiple experiments to understand the fundamental characteristics of hand tremors caused by neurodegenerative disorders and their impact on patients. As a result, many orthoses have been developed primarily to minimize these involuntary movements in patients that suffer from Essential Tremors (ET), Parkinson’s disease (PD), as well as other neurological conditions, and to avoid the side effects caused by medical treatments. However, most of the tremor suppression devices available are not able to accomplish significant tremor reduction and they also mainly focus on wrist and elbow tremors caused by ET. In this paper, the authors describe the investigation of a hand tremor simulator that can be employed to study tremor characteristic and help implement a tremor suppression device that can significantly reduce resting and postural tremor in fingers produced by Parkinson’s disease.

Runners Up
$75 Cash Prize

Investigating the feasibility of a knowledge engineering approach to develop the clinical reasoning of a hybrid robotic system for upper limb rehabilitation after stroke
Lead Author: Addison Rich 
University: University of Toronto

Abstract: This paper presents preliminary studies in developing clinical reasoning capabilities for an autonomous, intelligent, post-stroke upper-limb rehabilitation hybrid robotic system. The hybrid system would combine functional electrical stimulation (FES) with robotics. The kinematics from the robot's end-effector, which is controlled by the patient's arm, would provide feedback to the hybrid system's FES device, creating a closed-loop between the robotics and FES. This closed-loop allows the hybrid system to monitor the patient's performance during therapy, and use its clinical reasoning capabilities to intelligently decide when to intervene with FES during a therapy session so as to be most beneficial to the patient. A novel approach to develop the basis for the hybrid system's clinical reasoning capabilities is taken by applying a systematic Knowledge Engineering methodology to elicit the tacit knowledge of therapists experienced with FES therapy. This tacit knowledge is made explicit in the form of variables, rules, and solutions. The novel approach proves feasible as the envisioned hybrid system would not able to account for all the concepts elicited from the therapists. The next stage of this work will further validate the approach with a prototype of the hybrid device. Other future work could involve adding technologies to the hybrid system to cover the gaps between the elicited concepts and current hybrid system technological capabilities.

Complex rehabilitation technology service delivery: scoping review process & methodology
Lead Author: Madelyn Betz
Additional Authors: Madelyn Betz, Peyton Galbreath, Richard Schein, Carrnen DiGiovine
University: University of Pittsburgh

Abstract: Complex rehabilitation technology (CRT), such as manual and powered wheelchairs, supports independence for individuals with disabilities by reducing their reliance on others and enabling mobility for function, employment, education, and independent living. CRT service delivery has evolved in the last few decades, with changes to funding, provider qualifications, consumer needs and desires, and advances in technology. The research team is in the process of conducting a scoping review that broadly examines scientific and grey literature in national and international contexts. This study aims to identify and investigate past and current barriers and facilitators to CRT provision to guide the creation of a new service delivery. Common themes identified during the scoping review include inadequate funding for CRT, lack of insurance benefit awareness, poor evidence-based practices to inform policy, and logistical challenges in the service delivery process. The research team continues to work on data extraction and analysis upon this paper submission and will solidify current themes and identify additional ones to examine useful policy and procedures. The results from the scoping review will inform the development of a survey to be distributed to industry stakeholders, with the goal of validating current practices and identifying future directions for wheeled mobility service delivery.

Effects of Simulated Aging on Cushion Performance Related to Hysteresis
Lead Author:  Amanda Manko
Additional Authors: Amanda Manko, Patricia Karg. David Brienza, Alexandra Delazio​​​​​​​
University: University of Pittsburgh

Abstract: Over time, wheelchair cushions experience changes which affect the way they perform. The RESNA WC-3 seating standards outline performance tests used to characterize changes in properties due to simulated aging. This study will breakdown the results of the hysteresis testing method. Hysteresis measures the energy lost to the cushion during a cycle of loading and unloading. Test outcomes are typically interpreted in two ways: indicative of energy absorption during impacts and facilitating the user’s return to erect posture after functional leans.

Virtual reality-based interventions for upper extremity rehabilitation post stroke
Lead Author:  Ryan Goettl
Additional Authors: Ryan Goettl, Timothy Ammon​​​​​​​, Catana Brown ​​​​​​​
University: Midwestern University Glendale AZ

Abstract: Strokes are the leading cause of adult disability as they induce decreased functional use of the Upper Limbs (UL). Recent advances in Virtual Reality (VR) systems have led to its increased use in clinical practice to address UL recovery for post-stroke patients. Although application of VR interventions in this context is already well supported in the literature, it remains less clear whether the type of VR system has a significant impact on the extent of recovery. The primary objective of this review is to help determine the relative effect of two different types of VR systems: Specific Virtual Reality and Nonspecific Virtual Reality (SVR and NSVR, respectively).
After performing a literature search to obtain individual study data that reported the effect of SVR, NSVR, or both, on UL recovery post-stroke as compared to conventional treatment, two meta-analyses were conducted to determine the relative effect size of each system. The SVR intervention group included 37 individual studies with a total of 1501 participants and received an effect size of 0.329, CI 0.226-0.432. The NSVR intervention group included 29 individual studies with a total of 1102 participants and received an effect size of 0.371, CI 0.308-0.433. Both effect sizes fall within the same small-moderate effect classification.
The results of this review demonstrate the potential benefits of SVR and NSVR interventions on the recovery of UL motor function for post-stroke individuals. Findings suggest that VR based interventions are more effective than conventional therapy in facilitating UL motor recovery in post stroke patients regardless of the type of system used (SVR or NSVR). Therefore, therapists considering implementing VR based interventions should select the system that best matches the factors surrounding the client, or the system that is more practical and accessible to incorporate in their rehabilitation setting.