
Year: 2020​
Who: Arnelle Etienne​
Where: Pittsburg, Pennsylvania​
What: As a research associate at Carnegie Mellon University, Arnelle Etienne turned a dream into an innovative solution to a long-standing issue in EEG (electroencephalography) technology: the challenge of securing reliable electrode contact on coarse and curly hair textures, common among individuals of African descent. Her groundbreaking idea involves electrodes designed with flexible wings that slide beneath cornrows, anchoring securely to the scalp. This elegant design promises to enhance the accuracy of EEG readings, which are critical for diagnosing neurological conditions like epilepsy, facilitating brain-computer interfacing, and advancing neuroscience research.
EEG systems traditionally cater to straight or fine hair types, often leading to unreliable readings or requiring hair removal, which can be invasive and culturally insensitive. Etienne's invention not only addresses this technical limitation but also promotes inclusivity in neurotech. By creating electrodes that accommodate diverse hair textures without compromising functionality, her work breaks barriers in equitable healthcare technology.
Etienne’s contributions extend beyond her technical ingenuity. As a co-founder and accessibility advisor at Precision Neuroscopics, she is committed to designing medical technologies that prioritize equity and inclusivity. Her organization focuses on creating cost-effective, user-friendly solutions that minimize error and maximize accessibility for patients, families, and medical professionals alike.
Etienne's research has garnered significant attention, including her co-authored publication, Novel Electrodes for Reliable EEG Recordings on Coarse and Curly Hair, which highlights the technical achievements of her work. Her efforts have not only advanced EEG technology but also underscored the importance of addressing socio-technical challenges in healthcare. By envisioning solutions that reflect the diverse needs of end users, Etienne exemplifies how innovation can bridge gaps in equity, fostering a more inclusive future in neurotechnology. Her contributions are a testament to the power of combining technical expertise with a commitment to social impact.​
Sources:
Journal Articles:
Etienne A, Laroia T, Weigle H, Afelin A, Kelly SK, Krishnan A, Grover P. Novel Electrodes for Reliable EEG Recordings on Coarse and Curly Hair. Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2020 Jul;2020:6151-6154. doi: 10.1109/EMBC44109.2020.9176067. PMID: 33019375.
Pollock, M. J., Wennerstrom, A., True, G., Everett, A., Sugarman, O., Haywood, C., Johnson, A., Meyers, D., Sato, J., Wells, K. B., Arevian, A. C., Massimi, M., Berry, J., Riefberg, L., Onyewuenyi, N., & Springgate, B. (2019). Preparedness and Community Resilience in disaster-prone areas: Cross-sectoral collaborations in South Louisiana, 2018. American Journal of Public Health, 109(S4). https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.2019.305152
Websites:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b, May 26). Health disparities. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/disparities/index.htm
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2024, September 24). Overview. National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities. https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/about/overview/