Here we present a protocol for acquiring and recording electroencephalographic (EEG) signals from neurodivergent children before, during, and after participating in dolphin-assisted therapy (DAT) sessions.
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Method Article
Electroencephalographic Signal Acquisition Framework for Neurodiverse: A Case Study of Dolphin-Assisted Therapy
In This Article
Summary
Abstract
This protocol details the essential steps for acquiring and recording electroencephalographic (EEG) signals in neurodivergent children before, during, and after participating in Dolphin-Assisted Therapy (DAT) sessions. Its main objective is to provide consistent and reliable data that allow for an accurate assessment of brain activity at various stages of the therapeutic process. The protocol establishes a clear framework for comparing the obtained EEG signals, ensuring that each recording meets the standards required for effective analysis and interpretation. To this end, a comprehensive approach is used that combines electronic tools and mathematical methods, such as power spectral analysis, to identify changes in children's brain activity during the intervention. Furthermore, the replicability of the results is ensured, favoring validity and consistency in scientific studies related to the therapy. This protocol, by standardizing data acquisition, seeks to optimize therapeutic outcomes and provide a solid basis for comparing different studies on the impact of DAT on childhood neurodiversity. Furthermore, it provides a robust system for future research, facilitating objective interpretation of therapy effects and improving interventions.
Introduction
The cultural differences between various human groups largely depend on their cognitive abilities. While some individuals can adapt to these cultural norms, others often face marginalization. Therefore, it is essential for these individuals to participate in sessions that promote their integration into human society1.
Children with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often require a combination of physical and alternative therapies for comprehensive and effective rehabilitation2,3<....
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Protocol
NOTE: The methodology used in this research was approved by the Ethics Committee of the National Polytechnic Institute of México in accordance with the Confidentiality Commitment Letter D/1477/2020. This document endorses the sample collection method and the ethical treatment provided to the bottlenose dolphins by the research team. The responsible use of participant data was ensured, and their consent was obtained for the use of the data in the experiments. Prior to sample collection and device connection, the procedure was thoroughly explained to the participants, who were free to withdraw from the study if they disagreed. Those who agreed to participate signed a wr....
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Results
This study describes the process of acquisition and analysis of EEG signals through a simulated UI in IDE, complemented by the application of a standardized method for data collection. This approach provides a reference framework that facilitates comparability between studies and ensures reproducibility, enabling other researchers to replicate the procedures and obtain consistent results in various contexts.
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Discussion
Dolphin-assisted therapy (DAT) emerged as a therapeutic modality for individuals with autism and developmental24,25. DAT offers life-enriching, fresh experiences to participants, stimulating interest and sensory engagement in an arresting backdrop25,26. However, there are several limitations that affect the interpretation of the efficacy of DAT, including the demands for controlled experimental desi.......
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Disclosures
The authors have nothing to disclose.
Acknowledgements
This article is supported by the National Polytechnic Institute (Instituto Politécnico Nacional) of México through project No. 20250776, granted by the Secretariat of Research and Postgraduate (Secretaría de Investigación y Posgrado), Secretaría de Ciencia, Humanidades, Tecnología e Innovación (SECIHTI). Additionally, the research described in this work was conducted at the Center for Computing Research (Centro de Investigación en Computación). It should be noted that this research is a major part of the doctoral thesis entitled Estandarización de la recolección de señales EEG de niños neurodivergentes d....
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Materials
| Name | Company | Catalog Number | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charge Converter | Hottinger Brüel & Kjær | Sensitivity 2647A 0.001 V/pC Sampling frequency 512 sps | |
| Hydrofone | Hottinger Brüel & Kjær | 8103 | Sampling Rate 96000 sps Sensitivity 8103 25.41e-6; V/Pa |
| Laptop Windows11 | Machenike | Machenike T58-V | CPU: i7-10870H (2.2GHz-5GHz/ 8Cores) GPU: NVIDIA Geforce RTX3060 Laptop GPU Dual Channel,Up To 32G Storage: M.2 PCIE. 2.5" HDD Screen: 144Hz 15.6 Inch FHD |
| ThinkGear ASIC Module 1 | NeuroSky | TGAM1 | Bluetooth V3.0 |
| Webcam | Logitech | C920 | Sampling frequency18 sps |
References
- Müller, E., Schuler, A., Yates, G. B. Social challenges and supports from the perspective of adults with Asperger syndrome and other autism spectrum disabilities. Autism. 16 (5), 478-490 (2012).
- Carrillo-Mora, P., et al.
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