Latest news with #EEG
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
DNAKE Emerges as a Global Innovator in Brain-Computer Interface Technology
XIAMEN, China, July 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology is redefining human-machine interaction by establishing direct communication between the brain and external devices. This transformative innovation is driving profound societal impact across industries: revolutionizing neurological disease treatment (e.g., epilepsy, Parkinson's, and depression), enhancing educational outcomes through improved focus, and enabling seamless industrial human-robot collaboration. With aging populations and rising neurological disorders worldwide, BCI's healthcare applications are experiencing explosive demand. According to IMARC Group, the global BCI market reached $1.74 billion in 2022 and is projected to hit $3.3 billion by 2027. In this rapidly evolving field, DNAKE is establishing itself as a rising force through cutting-edge R&D and global vision. Technology Leadership & Standardization As a key driver of BCI advancement, DNAKE has forged strategic partnerships with elite research institutions like the CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Xiamen University's Brain Cognition & Intelligent Computing Lab, etc. These collaborations underscore its dual strengths: proprietary innovation and integration of top-tier academic resources. DNAKE holds pivotal roles in the BCI Industry Alliance and China Communications Standards Association, actively co-authoring technical standards such as "EEG-Based Attention Monitoring Systems: Technical Requirements and Testing Methods." This standardization expertise positions DNAKE to extend its influence into global markets, where consistent technical benchmarks are critical for adoption. Breakthrough Innovations DNAKE's BCI team recently published groundbreaking research in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, solving a critical industry challenge: environmental adaptability. Their innovative "Human-AI Multi-agent Copilot" system merges EEG signal decoding with deep reinforcement learning AI, enabling devices to interpret user commands while autonomously responding to environmental changes—a leap from one-directional BCI systems to true interactive intelligence. In sleep health, Dr. Phang's team also developed a Multiscale Temporal Convolutional Neural Network (MTCNN) algorithm in the Journal of Neural Engineering that achieves 88.24% accuracy in sleep-stage classification—a 23% improvement over consumer-grade headbands (Miller et al., 2022). This approach sets new paradigms for EEG signal analysis. R&D Commitment DNAKE's 300+ member R&D team includes specialized BCI engineers, with 2024 R&D investment spiking to 11% of revenue. A dedicated $18 million BCI Technology Center will accelerate project commercialization. Strategic Vision Aligned with its "Innovation-Driven Transformation" strategy, DNAKE is pivoting toward digital health ecosystems while strengthening its smart community and hospital solutions. "In BCI, Chinese innovators compete on equal footing globally," notes DNAKE. "Through autonomous R&D and international collaboration, we're poised to shape BCI's future." About DNAKE DNAKE (Xiamen) Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. is a global leader in smart intercom and home automation solutions. Since 2005, we've delivered innovative, high-quality products—including IP intercoms, cloud platforms, smart sensors, and wireless doorbells—to over 12.6 million households worldwide. Combining cutting-edge technology with customer-focused design, DNAKE provides reliable, scalable solutions for both residential and commercial needs. View original content: SOURCE DNAKE (Xiamen) Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.
The Age
2 days ago
- Health
- The Age
Matt is 56 but his ‘fitness age' says he is in his 30s. How is that possible?
'Fitness age, also known as your biological age, is a way of grading your health and fitness in comparison to your chronological age,' says Transformation Coach co-founder Chief Brabon, who has coached Quirk for the past 10 years. The accuracy of your result depends on a couple of factors, the first being the breadth of the analysis. Most rudimentary indicators of fitness age, such as the one on your smartwatch, measure your cardiorespiratory fitness by assessing your VO2 max and how it stacks up against others of your age and gender. Some may also take into account your body fat percentage. Others, such as the FAST test Quirk did, also measure mobility, stability, strength, and body composition, providing a more rounded understanding of your physical wellbeing. 'The benefit of the FAST test is it looks at so many aspects of health and wellbeing,' Brabon says. 'These elements are often overlooked in what we consider good health.' But even with more holistic assessments like this, Sydney University health and longevity researcher Professor Luigi Fontana says technology alone provides an incomplete picture of our overall health. Loading 'In 2025, we don't have reliable biomarkers of biological age,' Prof Fontana says. 'No doubt, some devices can now measure – even if not perfectly like an EEG – things like sleep quality, heart rate variability, and some can measure body temperature and blood oxygen,' he says. 'These tools are useful, especially because we're living in a mostly sedentary society, but exercise alone won't guarantee long-term health. Let's say you're exercising, but you're also smoking, over-drinking alcohol, and eating an unhealthy diet. Do you really believe you're going to be healthier and live longer?' Loading Does fitness age matter? Other than a handy brag among your mates, why care about fitness age? Quite simply, Brabon says, because it will boost your chances of living well, if not necessarily longer. 'Our health and fitness – which fitness age represents – should be a priority in our lives, just like family and career,' he says. 'It's no use nurturing a wonderful family or creating financial security if you're not fit enough to enjoy either of them.' Numerous studies show that strong overall fitness is associated with a lower risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease, depression, diabetes, dementia and premature death. 'Ultimately, the greatest benefit of a younger fitness age is a greater quality of life for an extended period of time,' Brabon says. 'What that basically means is that you will be able to move and perform in your 50s, 60s, and even older, as well as you did in your 20s and 30s.' How to improve fitness age Unlike chronological age, Brabon says we all have power to influence our fitness age – whether that's for better or worse. 'We so often see people get to this point in life in their late 40s or early 50s and they've almost given up,' he says. 'But even if you've never been fit before in your life, it doesn't mean you can't achieve a lower fitness age and the lifestyle benefits that come with it. You just have to start.' Fontana says you don't need super intense workouts to see results – just consistent, sustainable habits. Loading 'In one study we found people aged 50 to 60 who exercised one hour a day, six days a week at 70 per cent of their maximum heart rate lost 40 per cent of their visceral fat over the course of a year,' he says. Adding exercises that build strength, mobility and balance can enhance those benefits and support positive ageing. 'As we age we lose muscle mass and bone mass,' Fontana says. 'Resistance and flexibility training help counteract musculoskeletal disorders and osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women.' Quirk pushes back on the familiar excuse 'I'm too old to get fit'. 'You're too old not to,' he says. 'You see on YouTube 75-year-old guys who look amazing and they've just continued with strength and fitness work. So why would you stop?' Quirk plans to continue his pursuit of lowering his fitness age. Next on the list his a blood analysis and some fine-tuning of his nutrition to support his training. 'I don't want to end up in a nursing home,' he says. 'I want to stay fit until I drop dead.'
Sydney Morning Herald
2 days ago
- Health
- Sydney Morning Herald
Matt is 56 but his ‘fitness age' says he is in his 30s. How is that possible?
'Fitness age, also known as your biological age, is a way of grading your health and fitness in comparison to your chronological age,' says Transformation Coach co-founder Chief Brabon, who has coached Quirk for the past 10 years. The accuracy of your result depends on a couple of factors, the first being the breadth of the analysis. Most rudimentary indicators of fitness age, such as the one on your smartwatch, measure your cardiorespiratory fitness by assessing your VO2 max and how it stacks up against others of your age and gender. Some may also take into account your body fat percentage. Others, such as the FAST test Quirk did, also measure mobility, stability, strength, and body composition, providing a more rounded understanding of your physical wellbeing. 'The benefit of the FAST test is it looks at so many aspects of health and wellbeing,' Brabon says. 'These elements are often overlooked in what we consider good health.' But even with more holistic assessments like this, Sydney University health and longevity researcher Professor Luigi Fontana says technology alone provides an incomplete picture of our overall health. Loading 'In 2025, we don't have reliable biomarkers of biological age,' Prof Fontana says. 'No doubt, some devices can now measure – even if not perfectly like an EEG – things like sleep quality, heart rate variability, and some can measure body temperature and blood oxygen,' he says. 'These tools are useful, especially because we're living in a mostly sedentary society, but exercise alone won't guarantee long-term health. Let's say you're exercising, but you're also smoking, over-drinking alcohol, and eating an unhealthy diet. Do you really believe you're going to be healthier and live longer?' Loading Does fitness age matter? Other than a handy brag among your mates, why care about fitness age? Quite simply, Brabon says, because it will boost your chances of living well, if not necessarily longer. 'Our health and fitness – which fitness age represents – should be a priority in our lives, just like family and career,' he says. 'It's no use nurturing a wonderful family or creating financial security if you're not fit enough to enjoy either of them.' Numerous studies show that strong overall fitness is associated with a lower risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease, depression, diabetes, dementia and premature death. 'Ultimately, the greatest benefit of a younger fitness age is a greater quality of life for an extended period of time,' Brabon says. 'What that basically means is that you will be able to move and perform in your 50s, 60s, and even older, as well as you did in your 20s and 30s.' How to improve fitness age Unlike chronological age, Brabon says we all have power to influence our fitness age – whether that's for better or worse. 'We so often see people get to this point in life in their late 40s or early 50s and they've almost given up,' he says. 'But even if you've never been fit before in your life, it doesn't mean you can't achieve a lower fitness age and the lifestyle benefits that come with it. You just have to start.' Fontana says you don't need super intense workouts to see results – just consistent, sustainable habits. Loading 'In one study we found people aged 50 to 60 who exercised one hour a day, six days a week at 70 per cent of their maximum heart rate lost 40 per cent of their visceral fat over the course of a year,' he says. Adding exercises that build strength, mobility and balance can enhance those benefits and support positive ageing. 'As we age we lose muscle mass and bone mass,' Fontana says. 'Resistance and flexibility training help counteract musculoskeletal disorders and osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women.' Quirk pushes back on the familiar excuse 'I'm too old to get fit'. 'You're too old not to,' he says. 'You see on YouTube 75-year-old guys who look amazing and they've just continued with strength and fitness work. So why would you stop?' Quirk plans to continue his pursuit of lowering his fitness age. Next on the list his a blood analysis and some fine-tuning of his nutrition to support his training. 'I don't want to end up in a nursing home,' he says. 'I want to stay fit until I drop dead.'
Daily Maverick
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Maverick
Sleep divorce: could sleeping separately from your partner lead to a better night's rest?
This arrangement can have benefits. But it doesn't have to be permanent, and doesn't have to mean the end of intimacy. Hundreds of years ago, it was common for married couples among the European upper classes to have separate bedrooms. Sleeping separately was a symbol of luxury and status historically reserved for royalty and the very wealthy. Nowadays, it's common for married couples and other couples in relationships to sleep in the same bed. But sometimes – for reasons from conflicting schedules to snoring to sleep talking – couples might choose to sleep separately in pursuit of a better night's sleep. This is known as 'sleep divorce'. Though I prefer the term 'sleep separation', as this doesn't have to be a permanent arrangement – but more on that later. So why might couples choose to sleep separately? And what does the evidence say about the effects on sleep quality if you sleep alone versus with a partner? Why do couples opt for a sleep separation? Couples may choose to sleep apart if one partner's sleep is disturbing the other's, or both are disrupting one another. This can happen for a variety of reasons. These include waking up frequently in the night, mismatched body clocks (for example, one person coming to bed later than the other), conflicting schedules (for example, shift workers), snoring, twitching legs, or sleep talking. Parents with babies and young children may choose to sleep separately to avoid both partners' sleep being disturbed. Those with conflicting preferences for sleeping environments, such as one partner liking a cool room with a fan and the other preferring warmth, may also decide to sleep apart. What are the benefits of sleeping alone? Many couples say they prefer to sleep – and sleep better – next to their partner. But when scientists measure sleep objectively, such as via an electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess brain waves, the data actually shows poorer sleep quality when co-sleeping. So sleeping alone may, in fact, mean better quality and longer sleep. Research also shows when one member of the couple has a sleep disorder, such as insomnia or sleep apnoea (where breathing is frequently interrupted during sleep), these people often inadvertently wake up their partner when they wake in the night. So sleeping alone could be a good idea if your bed partner has a sleep disorder. What's more, studies have found sleep disturbances are linked to reduced relationship satisfaction. So sleeping apart could actually mean happier couples. Finally, anyone who has struggled with their sleep will know anxiety around sleep is common. Many clients I have seen who experience insomnia report sleeping alone can alleviate some of their anxiety because at least they know they won't disturb, or be disturbed by, their partner. Are there any downsides to separate sleeping arrangements? Some people dislike sleeping alone, reporting comfort, and feelings of safety and protection when sleeping alongside their partner – and loneliness when they don't. Sleeping separately also requires two rooms, or at least two beds. Many couples may not have these options available to them in their home. Sleeping separately is often stigmatised, with some people seeing it as the death of a couple's sex life. But while sleeping in separate beds may provide fewer opportunities for sex, this doesn't necessarily mean the end of intimacy. Sleeping apart could mean some couples actually have more sex. We know better sleep is linked to more positive feelings about relationships, so it's possible the desire to be intimate could increase after a good night's sleep in separate beds. Sleeping apart may even mean some couples have more energy to be intimate. Nonetheless, if you choose to sleep separately from your partner, it's important to have an open discussion and prioritise opportunities for connection and intimacy. One client I worked with referred to 'visiting rights', where her partner came into her bed for a short period before sleep or in the morning. Who should potentially consider a sleep separation? You may wish to think about a 'sleep separation' if you are disturbing each other's sleep, have young children, or have different preferences in terms of temperature, light and noise, which are causing issues. Ultimately, if sleeping in the same bed is leading to poor sleep, then sleeping apart, if it's possible, could help. If you can't sleep separately, there may be other ways to reduce disturbance from a partner, such as using an eye mask, white noise or earplugs. If you decide to try a sleep separation, remember this can be a flexible arrangement or 're-set' and doesn't have to be permanent, or every night. Some couples find sleeping separately during the working week, but sharing a bed on the weekend works well for them. Lastly, it's important to talk to your GP about any persistent sleep problems, such as snoring, insomnia, or unusual behaviour during sleep (for example, shouting or walking around), as there may be an underlying sleep disorder which needs treating. DM
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Firefly Inks Latest Commercial Agreement for Use of its FDA-Cleared BNA™ Platform in Groundbreaking Precision Neuroscience Research
– Institute of Human Genetics at Heidelberg University Hospital ongoing EEG biomarker study on 15q13.3 CNVs – – Collaboration aims to uncover novel insights into the brain's functional architecture in rare genetic conditions – – Building and growing a license business is an increasingly important pillar of Firefly's commercial strategy – KENMORE, N.Y., July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Firefly Neuroscience, Inc. ('Firefly' or the 'Company') (NASDAQ: AIFF), an Artificial Intelligence ('AI') company developing innovative solutions that improve brain health outcomes for patients with neurological and mental disorders, is pleased to highlight its ongoing collaboration with Prof. Dr. med. Christian Schaaf, Director of the Institute of Human Genetics at Heidelberg University Hospital and Chairman of Human Genetics at the Medical Faculty of Heidelberg University, on a groundbreaking study investigating the neurophysiological impact of 15q13.3 copy number variants ('CNVs'). This engagement builds on prior work between Firefly and Prof. Schaaf, including a joint publication on CHRNA7-related phenotypes.1 The current study leverages Firefly's FDA-cleared technology to analyze Electroencephalograms ('EEG') data from 30 subjects — 15 with deletions and 15 with duplications of the 15q13.3 chromosomal region. Study subjects undergo resting state and two cognitive paradigms running automatically through Firefly's BNA platform. The study is scheduled to run through 2026, with Firefly commercially engaged to provide EEG systems, training, and full analytic support, including the comparison to its proprietary, FDA-cleared normative Resting and Event-Related Potential Cognitive tasks database. The study aims to: Identify electrophysiological biomarkers associated with 15q13.3 CNVs; Characterize neurocognitive profiles linked to deletions vs. duplications; and Support future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders. 'This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing precision neuroscience,' said Gil Issachar, Chief Technology Officer of Firefly. 'By combining Heidelberg's clinical expertise with our proprietary technology, we aim to uncover novel insights into the brain's functional architecture in rare genetic conditions. But our mission goes well beyond any single study — deepening our understanding of cognitive disorders, both common and rare, is essential to transforming how we diagnose, monitor, and treat these conditions. Every insight we gain from rare genetic variants like 15q13.3 helps illuminate the broader landscape of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. We believe that by decoding the brain's electrical language, we can bridge the gap between genotype and phenotype, and ultimately bring more personalized, effective care to patients worldwide.' Greg Lipschitz, Chief Executive Officer of Firefly, said, 'As pharma and medtech organizations increasingly look to leverage the use of objective measures of brain activity such as EEG across various stages of new product development, from ideation up to and including commercialization, there is growing industry awareness and adoption of our highly differentiated, AI-powered technology. We are truly honored that a world-renowned physician scientist, like Prof. Schaaf, is the latest to see the value of his institution licensing our technology, and we look forward to updating our stakeholders as this important research is completed.' Source 1 Stern T, Crutcher EH, McCarthy JM, Ali MA, Issachar G, Geva AB, Peremen Z, Schaaf CP. Brain Network Analysis of EEG Recordings Can Be Used to Assess Cognitive Function in Teenagers With 15q13.3 Microdeletion Syndrome. Front Neurosci. 2021 Jan 28;15:622329. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2021.622329. PMID: 33584189; PMCID: PMC7876406. About Firefly Firefly (NASDAQ: AIFF) is an Artificial Intelligence ('AI') company developing innovative solutions that improve brain health outcomes for patients with neurological and mental disorders. Firefly's FDA-510(k) cleared Brain Network Analytics (BNA™) technology revolutionizes diagnostic and treatment monitoring methods for conditions such as depression, dementia, anxiety disorders, concussions, and ADHD. Over the past 15 years, Firefly has built a comprehensive database of brain wave tests, securing patent protection, and achieving FDA clearance. The Company is now launching BNA™ commercially, targeting pharmaceutical companies engaged in drug research and clinical trials, as well as medical practitioners for clinical use. Brain Network Analytics was developed using artificial intelligence and machine learning on Firefly's extensive proprietary database of standardized, high-definition longitudinal electroencephalograms (EEGs) of over 17,000 patients representing twelve disorders, as well as clinically normal patients. BNA™, in conjunction with an FDA-cleared EEG/ERP system, can provide clinicians with comprehensive insights into brain function. These insights can enhance a clinician's ability to accurately diagnose mental and cognitive disorders and to evaluate what therapy and/or drug is best suited to optimize a patient's outcome. Please visit for more information. About Prof. Christian Schaaf Professor Schaaf is the Medical Director at Heidelberg University Hospital and Department Chair of the Institute of Human Genetics at the Heidelberg University in Germany. He studies the genetic causes of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders, including copy number variants of 15q13.3. His work led to the discovery of multiple new disease genes, and three disorders have been named after him: Schaaf-Yang syndrome, Bosch-Boonstra-Schaaf Optic Atrophy syndrome, and Marbach-Schaaf Neurodevelopmental syndrome. Professor Schaaf's groundbreaking work has been recognized with many awards, including the William K. Bowes Award for Medical Genetics by Partners Healthcare and Harvard Medical School and the inaugural Seldin-Smith Award for Pioneering Research by the American Society for Clinical Investigation. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute 'forward-looking statements' for purposes of the federal securities laws concerning Firefly. These forward-looking statements include express or implied statements relating to Firefly's management teams' expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions, or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words 'anticipate,' 'believe,' 'contemplate,' 'continue,' 'could,' 'estimate,' 'expect,' 'intends,' 'may,' 'might,' 'plan,' 'possible,' 'potential,' 'predict,' 'project,' 'should,' 'will,' 'would' and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting Firefly will be those that have been anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond Firefly's control) or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to those factors described under the heading 'Risk Factors' in the reports and other filings of Firefly with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of Firefly's assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. Forward-looking statements included in this press release only speak as of the date they are made, and Firefly does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investor & Media ContactStephen Kilmer(646) in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
