Wearable Electrophysiologic Sensor Suite for Detection of Neurotoxic Effects

This program combines a breakthrough in electrophysiologic sensors with state-of-the-art (SoA) research into the determination of cognitive state and autonomic arousal. The sensor breakthrough enables accurate measurement of bioelectric signals withoutcontact to the skin, even operating through clothing if desired. The target configuration for the prototype system to be built in Phase II is a small array of the new bioelectrodes mounted on the outer surface of a lightweight cap, or off-the head on theinside of a helmet..In Phase I measurements will be performed at the Cognitive Electrophysiology Laboratory (CEL) at the Scripps Research Institute, in order to define a set of measurement channels that can be used as the inputs to a cognitive gauge. This gauge will combinethe physiologic inputs using SoA algorithms and insights, to produce a single reading indicative of impending cognitive dysfunction. The measurements will use low levels of alcohol intake to affect cognitive performance under protocols developed at CELover the last five years.In Phase II a functional prototype including the sensor array and all algorithms will be demonstrated. The prototype will be tested for extended periods and under different conditions on a statistically significant number of subjects at CEL. The proposed system will provide a dramatic improvement in capability to monitor the cognitive state. By measuring brain function directly, the system will be able to detect effects due to neurotoxins, uncompensated stress, sleep loss, and informationoverload. Other military applications could include alertness monitoring, and as a component of future man machine interfaces. Significant commercial opportunities exist in the research market transitioning to medical applications such asneuropharmacology, and civilian security applications such as fire departments and hazardous waste treatment.