Targeted Plasticity Workshop 2024
PRE-SfN WORKSHOP
Neurotechnologies for Targeted Plasticity:
A Practical Introduction to H-Reflex Conditioning & Paired Associative Stimulation
The Shirley Ryan Ability Lab and the National Center for Adaptive Neurotechnologies (NCAN) are pleased to announce their upcoming workshop on “Neurotechnologies for Targeted Plasticity: A Practical Introduction to H-Reflex Conditioning and Paired Associative Stimulation” to be held at the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Chicago, IL on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The workshop precedes the Spinal Plasticity Symposium held on Friday, October 4, 2024.
Targeted Plasticity
It has become clear that the central nervous system is capable of change, or plasticity, throughout life. This knowledge has allowed the development of novel plasticity-based strategies for rehabilitation of neurological impairments. These protocols target beneficial change to CNS sites that are important in behaviors such as walking or reach-and-grasp. The targeted change benefits performance and enables better practice. Better practice leads to widespread beneficial changes that improve overall function. This workshop introduces two proven targeted plasticity protocols–H-reflex operant conditioning (HROC) and paired associative stimulation (PAS).
Workshop Design and Organization
The course begins with talks providing background on the physiology of HROC and PAS. Participants are divided into small groups to observe demonstrations and participate in hands-on exercises with HROC and PAS. Workshop demonstrations and hands-on experiences are performed with our Evoked Potential Operant Conditioning System (EPOCS) software (which is based on BCI2000, NCAN’s general-purpose, open-source data acquisition software platform). Workshop participants will learn how to apply EPOCS, practice the methodologies used for adaptive neurotechnologies, and design and implement experiments.
The fee for the workshop is $300 per person. Lunch and light snacks will be provided. Registration will open at 7:30 am and then the workshop will run 8:30 am-5:30 pm.
The workshop is limited to 40 participants. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, housing, and food. Workshop registration will open on 6/15/2024. Email us at TPworkshop@neurotechcenter.org for additional information.
Who should apply?
Early to mid-career scientists or clinicians, e.g., junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, clinical researchers or fellows, advanced graduate or medical students.