RECOVER-NEURO: Platform Protocol, Appendix_A to Measure the Effects of BrainHQ, PASC CoRE and tDCS Interventions on Long COVID Symptoms

BrainHQ platform provides a set of cognitive activities, like puzzles and games, that are cognitively stimulating and actively engage participants but do not continuously and adaptively challenge them. These activities are designed to be a face-valid, active comparison approach to cognitive therapy, thus participants are blinded, attention time is matched, and overall user experience is identical to the active arms.

BrainHQ is an online cognitive training program, and has been used to improve cognitive function among persons with cognitive impairment based on principles of neuroplasticity.

PASC CoRE is a manualized, adaptable cognitive rehabilitation intervention adapted from Goal Management Training and other evidence based programs that improve attention and executive functions, among other cognitive domains.

"Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) will use a device specifically for home-based use. This device delivers a weak electrical current of 2.0 mA passed through two electrodes placed on the scalp to target the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex region of the brain. The electrodes are single-use for each session and can be attached to a headset by snapping into place.~The device has a user-friendly interface and a large-button keypad, making it is easy to use at home."

tDCS devices used in the sham arm will be pre-programmed to deliver the same ramp up/down at the beginning/end of the 30-minute period as the active arm, except with no current otherwise delivered during the session.