Tracking attention states in children using advanced sensing technology
Official title: Combining neural oscillations, physiology and privacy-preserving LiDAR/millimeter wave sensing technology to track attention states in natural contexts
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11037221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to better understand and track attention in kids, especially those with ADHD and autism, by using cool new technology that measures brain activity and other responses in everyday situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $689,467 |
| NIH project number | 1R61MH138713-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who exhibit attention deficits or are diagnosed with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have attention-related disorders or are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to effectively track attention states in children, particularly those with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and autism. By using a combination of neural oscillations and innovative sensing technologies, the study aims to assess attention deficits in real-life contexts, which is crucial for understanding how attention interacts with factors like arousal and motivation. The researchers will develop a portable sensor suite that records neural activity, physiological responses, and social interactions, while ensuring privacy protection. This approach aims to provide a more accurate assessment of attention in natural environments compared to traditional methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved assessment and treatment strategies for children with attention-related disorders, enhancing their academic and social outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the integration of neural and physiological measures in natural contexts is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in understanding attention dynamics in controlled settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lenartowicz, Agatha — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Lenartowicz, Agatha
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.