Abstract
Attentional biomarkers in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are difficult to detect using only behavioural testing. We explored whether attention measured by a low-cost EEG system might be helpful to detect a possible disorder at its earliest stages. The GokEvolution application was designed to train attention and to provide a measure to identify attentional problems in children early on. Attention changes registered with NeuroSky MindWave in combination with the CARAS-R psychological test were used to characterise the attentional profiles of 52 non-ADHD and 23 ADHD children aged 7 to 12 years old. The analyses revealed that the GokEvolution was valuable in measuring attention through its use of EEG–BCI technology. The ADHD group showed lower levels of attention and more variability in brain attentional responses when compared to the control group. The application was able to map the low attention profiles of the ADHD group when compared to the control group and could distinguish between participants who completed the task and those who did not. Therefore, this system could potentially be used in clinical settings as a screening tool for early detection of attentional traits in order to prevent their development.
Highlights
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a multidimensional disorder characterised by a mixed pattern of symptoms that can be divided into two categories: (1) lack of attention and (2) hyperactivity plus impulsiveness
To check for possible attentional differences between the control group and the ADHD group, we calculated the mean attention across all levels (Figure 3A)
Our preliminary results showed that attention measures given by the EEG–brain–computer interfaces (BCI) device can be used as an attentional biomarker for the prevention of risk factors associated with attention diseases
Summary
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a multidimensional disorder characterised by a mixed pattern of symptoms that can be divided into two categories: (1) lack of attention and (2) hyperactivity plus impulsiveness. The latter includes behaviours such as a lack of attention to details, excessive talking, and excessive motor activity [1]. Due to the absence of biological markers of the disorder, the diagnosis might be subjective In this regard, brain signal studies have been developed in order to overcome this issue and to achieve a diagnostic based on quantitative data [6,7]
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