Phase 1 (2025)
Reducing Calibration Time in EEG Motor Imagery BCI: A TwoStage Approach for Clinical Deployment
Authors: Cristian-Stelian Grecu, Nicolae-Alexandru Botezatu and Robert-Gabriel Lupu
Conference: IEEE International Conference on e-Health and Bioengineering (EHB 2025), 13-14 Noiembrie 2025.
The paper presents a novel two-stage classification framework designed to minimize calibration overhead while maintaining robust performance across multiple therapy sessions. Validation on a clinical dataset of 480 sessions from 30 post-stroke patients demonstrated that the intra-subject approach achieved 77.4% average accuracy, significantly outperforming inter-subject models (61.4%). Patients with extensive longitudinal data (>20 sessions) consistently achieved accuracies above 80%, highlighting the importance of personalized adaptation. The framework successfully addresses critical deployment challenges by reducing patient fatigue, eliminating per-session recalibration requirements, and maximizing therapeutic intervention time. These improvements represent a significant advancement toward practical clinical implementation of MI-BCI systems for neurorehabilitation.
Status: Accepted and Published
Design and validation of a portable proprioceptive stimulator for upper limb rehabilitation
Authors: Nicolae Alexandru Botezatu, Valentin Gîscă, Paul Corneliu Herghelegiu and Robert Gabriel Lupu
Conference: IEEE International Conference on e-Health and Bioengineering (EHB 2025), 13-14 Noiembrie 2025.
The paper presents the design and validation of a compact, low-power device for proprioceptive stimulation of the upper limb. The stimulator is part of a broader rehabilitation framework combining virtual reality (VR), immersive feedback, and brain–computer interface (BCI) technologies. It integrates a Vybronics linear resonant actuator driven by a Renesas DA7280 controller and a SiLabs BGM220P systemon-package with Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity. Hardware offloading using the Peripheral Reflex System (PRS) and Linked Direct Memory Access (LDMA) enables CPU-independent waveform playback and reduced energy use. Power profiling with confirmed efficient operation, with peak power below 332 mW. Empirical tests using 80 randomized patterns applied to the biceps tendon showed consistent proprioceptive sensations for specific waveforms. The device demonstrates the feasibility of delivering controlled proprioceptive feedback in portable, multimodal rehabilitation systems.
Status: Accepted and Published
Immersive Virtual Reality for Stroke Rehabilitation: Linking Clinical and Digital Measures of Motor Recovery — A Pilot Study
Authors: Livia-Alexandra Ion, Miruna Ioana Săndulescu, Claudia-Gabriela Potcovaru, Daniela Poenaru, Andrei Doru Comișel , Ștefan Ștefureac, Andrei Cristian Lambru, Alin Moldoveanu, Ana Magdalena Anghel, Delia Cinteză
Journal: Bioengineering
The paper presents a pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, usability, and short-term motor outcomes of an immersive VR-assisted rehabilitation program using the Travee-VR system. Fourteen adults with post-stroke upper-limb paresis completed a 10-day hybrid rehabilitation program combining conventional therapy with immersive VR sessions. Feasibility and tolerability were assessed through adherence, adverse events, the System Usability Scale (SUS), and the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ). Motor outcomes included active and passive range of motion (AROM, PROM) and a derived GAP index (PROM–AROM). Correlations between clinical changes and in-game performance metrics were explored to identify potential digital biomarkers of recovery. All participants completed the program without adverse events. Usability was rated as high (mean SUS = 79 ± 11.3), and cybersickness remained mild (SSQ < 40). Significant improvements were observed in shoulder abduction (+7.3°, p < 0.01) and elbow flexion (+5.8°, p < 0.05), with moderate-to-large effect sizes. Performance gains in the Fire and Fruits games correlated with clinical improvement in shoulder AROM (ρ = 0.45, p = 0.041). Cluster analysis identified distinct responder profiles, reflecting individual variability in neuroplastic adaptation.
Status: Submitted, Under evaluation
Designs of VR Environments for Relaxation and Focus – A Systematic Review
Authors: Silviu Stăncioiu, Anca Morar, Alin Moldoveanu, Cristian Lambru, Ana Magdalena Anghel, Delia Cinteză
Journal: Extended Reality: Models and Applications, Information
The paper examines how Virtual Reality environments can support relaxation and identifies key design principles that can guide researchers and developers in creating effective calming experiences. It also compares different approaches used to promote relaxation, distinguishing between passive environments, where users mainly observe, and active environments, where users engage in guided tasks or interactions. A multi-phase review methodology was employed, drawing from five major scientific databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and SpringerLink).
Status: In progress
Stroke diagnosis VR trainer for neurology residents
Authors: Awss Zidan, Ayham Boucher, Emil Dragan, Anca Morar, Alin Moldoveanu
Journal: Frontiers in Virtual Reality
The paper aimes to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) simulations for stroke code training among neurology residents. Eight residents participated in two VR simulations of stroke alert codes, and their performance was tracked using a standardized checklist. Following the VR session and debrief, residents completed two anonymous surveys assessing the technical and educational aspects of the VR simulation. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: Participants reported the VR simulation to be effective in improving their medical knowledge and clinical skills, with an average score of 4.0 out of 5 in both surveys. Most participants felt more confident in managing stroke code alerts, with an average score of 4.13 out of 5
Results: Participants reported the VR simulation to be effective in improving their medical knowledge and clinical skills, with an average score of 4.0 out of 5 in both surveys. Most participants felt more confident in managing stroke code alerts, with an average score of 4.13 out of 5
Status: In progress
