Multi-Channel Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) utilizing A.I. and IoT Technologies for Remote Tele-Treatment

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuro-modulation technique that changes the excitability of brain nerves usually through two electrodes attached to the scalp. The weak current from anode to cathode regulates nerve excitability. tDCS cathode (c-tDCS) and anode (a-tDCS), this electrical current will over-polarize and depolarize the cell membrane potential, change the threshold of nerve cell excitement and increase the excitability of the cerebral cortex, its effect can be maintained for several minutes to several hours after stimulation. Recent studies have found that tDCS can improve motor performance, motor learning and stroke patients' motor performance in healthy adults. This paper proposes an IoT based multi-channel tDCS solution that supports practitioners to remotely carry out retrieval and analysis of patients' brain EEG as well as customization for corresponding tDCS treatment programs.

I. Introduction

Telemedicine facilitates real-time information retrieval from electronic patient records (ePR) that provides necessary information for caregivers when providing remote support [1]. The unexpected outbreak of global Covid-19 pandemic ceases most human interactions; including those non-fatal medical treatments. Under the adverse impact of daily onslaught of bad news generated by coronavirus pandemic, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by hopelessness and triggering depression. Besides using conventional antidepressants drugs, such as Mirtazapine, Sertraline, etc., tDCS is an alternative treatment to alleviate depressive disorders [2]. On the other hand, tDCS normally comprises one-on-one clinical treatments where practitioners will study the Electroencephalography (EEG) responses of patients; adjusting and optimizing pertinent treatment programs accordingly [3]. The proposed multichannel tDCS treatment solution aims to integrate state-of-the-art A.I. and IoT technologies to promote telemedicine [4]. Through adopting the proposed tDCS solution, the practitioners are capable to remotely (i) retrieve and analyze patients' brain EEG; and (ii) tailor-made corresponding tDCS treatment programs. The ultimate objective is to realizing remote tDCS treatments without worrying lockdown resulting from any manmade or natural disasters. The proposed system also reduces the non-essential human contacts.