The Starstim fNIRS - Combining tES brain stimulation and EEG + fNIRS neuroimaging in one headcap
Different technologies to assess and stimulate brain activity exist, including functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), Electro-encephalography (EEG) and transcranial electrical stimulation (tES). EEG directly records electrical brain activity, whereas fNIRS indirectly measures it through hemodynamic response. tES is an umbrella term for low amplitude current stimulation to the brain through direct (tDCS), alternating (tACS) and random (tRNS) current waveforms that has been shown to modulate neuronal networks and alter behavior.
The possibility to combine tES with multiple neuroimaging modalities in one device facilitates altering human behavior and acquiring a more complete picture of the brain. It further increases application possibilities and reduces set-up and measurement time.
In this blog post, we will focus on the Starstim fNIRS, the most adaptable solution to combine tES brain stimulation with EEG and fNIRS neuroimaging in one single wireless and wearable system – and what makes it the most versatile solution for researchers and clinicians in many application areas.
Conducting tES experiments and simultaneously performing non-invasive brain monitoring with a single portable, wireless and light-weight system – this is the aim of the Starstim fNIRS. It incorporates multi-channel devices of Neuroelectrics tES/EEG (Starstim) and Artinis fNIRS (Brite or OctaMon+) being both-state-of-the-art and working perfectly together in one single headcap.
Figure 1: The Starstim fNIRS package, here with the Brite – combining tES, EEG and fNIRS in one single headcap
In the included software package, the Starstim tES-EEG system (8, 20, and 32 channels) and the Artinis fNIRS system (8, 24, and up to 54 channels) are integrated via software level synchronization (LSL). This leads to accurate synchronization of fNIRS and EEG data and makes additional hardware needless.
With EEG, fNIRS and tES, three separate but complementary technologies are provided in the Strastim fNIRS package. Measurements can be performed in multiple settings, due to portability of the system. This leads to an enormous range of application areas for researchers and clinicians and flexibility in set-up possibilities and locations. Brain activity can be measured before, during and after neuro-stimulation - while a subject is performing tasks or in a resting-state period.
Figure 2: Layout of the OxySoft and NIC (Neuroelectrics Instrument Controller) software packages with OptEStim training platform
For maximal support to correctly apply these state-of-the-art technologies most beneficially according to specific research targets, the Starstim fNIRS package contains superior support provided by our partner Silverline Research Services. Two different support packages (20 h and 40 h) can be chosen, containing training on set up of the Starstim fNIRS and usage of software, as well as research and analysis support. Additionally, for researchers interested in advanced level training in online fNIRS/EEG analysis and closed loop stimulation protocols, the OptEStim training platform developed by Silverline Research can be provided as part of the support packages. The platform requires no additional software or hardware apart from the Starstim fNIRS package components. Hence, researchers can access advanced level tES closed loop programs to optimize tES protocols allowing individual brain-state dynamics with both fNIRS and EEG analytics, which is a first in the world solution.
Are you interested in the Starstim fNIRS that enables performing simultaneously brain stimulation and non-invasive brain imaging?
Are you interested in EEG and fNIRS neuroimaging only? Contact us to discuss about possibilities.
Suggested further reading
To have a look on previous research conducted with the Starstim fNIRS, please visit our publication webpages:
When simultaneously measuring fNIRS and EEG, placement of both devices should ideally ensure proper coverage of the desired measurement location, minimize interference and take into account (technical) characteristics and basic of both techniques. Read this blog post to learn more about relevance of these points and further recommendations for integrating fNIRS and EEG on one head.