This study aims to explore the impact of Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) on brain signal complexity in patients with minimally conscious state (MCS) by analyzing electroencephalogram (EEG) entropy. MCS patients typically exhibit reduced brain entropy compared to healthy individuals, indicating lower brain complexity. The study will assess whether AAT can enhance this complexity, which is crucial for understanding consciousness levels. Entropy, a measure of randomness in brain activity, will be used to evaluate AAT's effectiveness. In addition, electrocardiography (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA) and behavioral measurements will also be collected.
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EEG signal complexity 1
Timeframe: Before, during and after AAT and TAU. Approximately three weeks.
EEG signal complexity 2
Timeframe: Before, during and after AAT and TAU. Approximately three weeks.
EEG signal complexity 3
Timeframe: Before, during and after AAT and TAU. Approximately three weeks.