scholarly journals The Michelangelo Effect: Art Improves the Performance in a Virtual Reality Task Developed for Upper Limb Neurorehabilitation

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marco Iosa ◽  
Merve Aydin ◽  
Carolina Candelise ◽  
Natascia Coda ◽  
Giovanni Morone ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
User Satisfaction ◽  
Cognitive Abilities ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Aesthetic Experience ◽  
Motor Task ◽  
Mozart Effect ◽  
Task Load ◽  
Creative Art ◽  
Nasa Task Load Index

The vision of an art masterpiece is associated with brain arousal by neural processes occurring quite spontaneously in the viewer. This aesthetic experience may even elicit a response in the motor areas of the observers. In the neurorehabilitation of patients with stroke, art observation has been used for reducing psychological disorders, and creative art therapy for enhancing physical functions and cognitive abilities. Here, we developed a virtual reality task which allows patients, by moving their hand on a virtual canvas, to have the illusion of painting some art masterpieces, such as The Creation of Adam of Michelangelo or The birth of Venus of Botticelli. Twenty healthy subjects (experiment 1) and four patients with stroke (experiment 2) performed this task and a control one in which they simply colored the virtual canvas. Results from User Satisfaction Evaluation Questionnaire and the NASA Task Load Index highlighted an appropriate level of usability. Moreover, despite the motor task was the same for art and control stimuli, the art condition was performed by healthy subjects with shorter trajectories (p = 0.001) and with a lower perception of physical demand (p = 0.049). In experiment 2, only the patients treated with artistic stimuli showed a reduction in the erroneous movements performed orthogonally to the canvas (p < 0.05). This finding reminds the so-called Mozart effect that improves the performance of subjects when they listen to classic music. Thus, we called this improvement in the performance when interacting with an artistic stimulus as Michelangelo effect.

scholarly journals Breakfast high in whey protein or carbohydrates improves coping with workload in healthy subjects

2013 ◽  
Vol 110 (9) ◽  
pp. 1712-1721 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nora Sihvola ◽  
Riitta Korpela ◽  
Andreas Henelius ◽  
Anu Holm ◽  
Minna Huotilainen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heart Rate ◽  
Task Performance ◽  
Whey Protein ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Mental Workload ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Task Load ◽  
Plasma Tryptophan ◽  
Nasa Tlx ◽  
Nasa Task Load Index

Dietary components may affect brain function and influence behaviour by inducing the synthesis of neurotransmitters. The aim of the present study was to examine the influence of consumption of a whey protein-containing breakfast drink v. a carbohydrate drink v. control on subjective and physiological responses to mental workload in simulated work. In a randomised cross-over design, ten healthy subjects (seven women, median age 26 years, median BMI 23 kg/m2) participated in a single-blinded, placebo-controlled study. The subjects performed demanding work-like tasks after having a breakfast drink high in protein (HP) or high in carbohydrate (HC) or a control drink on separate sessions. Subjective states were assessed using the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX), the Karolinska sleepiness scale (KSS) and the modified Profile of Mood States. Heart rate was recorded during task performance. The ratio of plasma tryptophan (Trp) to the sum of the other large neutral amino acids (LNAA) and salivary cortisol were also analysed. The plasma Trp:LNAA ratio was 30 % higher after the test drinks HP (median 0·13 (μmol/l)/(μmol/l)) and HC (median 0·13 (μmol/l)/(μmol/l)) than after the control drink (median 0·10 (μmol/l)/(μmol/l)). The increase in heart rate was smaller after the HP (median 2·7 beats/min) and HC (median 1·9 beats/min) drinks when compared with the control drink (median 7·2 beats/min) during task performance. Subjective sleepiness was reduced more after the HC drink (median KSS − 1·5) than after the control drink (median KSS − 0·5). There were no significant differences between the breakfast types in the NASA-TLX index, cortisol levels or task performance. We conclude that a breakfast drink high in whey protein or carbohydrates may improve coping with mental tasks in healthy subjects.

scholarly journals The Effect of Task Complexity on Time Estimation in the Virtual Reality Environment: An EEG Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (20) ◽  
pp. 9779
Author(s):  
Jiaxin Li ◽  
Ji-Eun Kim
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Task Complexity ◽  
Time Estimation ◽  
Virtual Reality Environment ◽  
Beta Band ◽  
Time Duration ◽  
Estimation Errors ◽  
Task Load ◽  
Nasa Task Load Index ◽  
Puzzle Task

This paper investigated the effect of task complexity on time estimation in the virtual reality environment (VRE) using behavioral, subjective, and physiological measurements. Virtual reality (VR) is not a perfect copy of the real world, and individuals perceive time duration differently in the VRE than they do in reality. Though many researchers have found a connection between task complexity and time estimation under non-VR conditions, the influence of task complexity on time estimation in the VRE is yet unknown. In this study, twenty-nine participants performed a VR jigsaw puzzle task at two levels of task complexity. We observed that as task complexity increased, participants showed larger time estimation errors, reduced relative beta-band power at Fz and Pz, and higher NASA-Task Load Index scores. Our findings indicate the importance of controlling task complexity in the VRE and demonstrate the potential of using electroencephalography (EEG) as real-time indicators of complexity level.

scholarly journals The impact of multisensory integration and perceptual load in virtual reality settings on performance, workload and presence

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Matteo Marucci ◽  
Gianluca Di Flumeri ◽  
Gianluca Borghini ◽  
Nicolina Sciaraffa ◽  
Michele Scandola ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Multisensory Integration ◽  
Perceptual Load ◽  
Visual Stimulation ◽  
Load Condition ◽  
High Load ◽  
Task Load ◽  
Skin Response ◽  
Nasa Task Load Index ◽  
The Impact

AbstractReal-world experience is typically multimodal. Evidence indicates that the facilitation in the detection of multisensory stimuli is modulated by the perceptual load, the amount of information involved in the processing of the stimuli. Here, we used a realistic virtual reality environment while concomitantly acquiring Electroencephalography (EEG) and Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) to investigate how multisensory signals impact target detection in two conditions, high and low perceptual load. Different multimodal stimuli (auditory and vibrotactile) were presented, alone or in combination with the visual target. Results showed that only in the high load condition, multisensory stimuli significantly improve performance, compared to visual stimulation alone. Multisensory stimulation also decreases the EEG-based workload. Instead, the perceived workload, according to the “NASA Task Load Index” questionnaire, was reduced only by the trimodal condition (i.e., visual, auditory, tactile). This trimodal stimulation was more effective in enhancing the sense of presence, that is the feeling of being in the virtual environment, compared to the bimodal or unimodal stimulation. Also, we show that in the high load task, the GSR components are higher compared to the low load condition. Finally, the multimodal stimulation (Visual-Audio-Tactile—VAT and Visual-Audio—VA) induced a significant decrease in latency, and a significant increase in the amplitude of the P300 potentials with respect to the unimodal (visual) and visual and tactile bimodal stimulation, suggesting a faster and more effective processing and detection of stimuli if auditory stimulation is included. Overall, these findings provide insights into the relationship between multisensory integration and human behavior and cognition.

Human Cerebral Potentials During Motor Training Under Different Forms of Sensory Feedback

1999 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 234-244
Author(s):  
Uwe Niederberger ◽  
Wolf-Dieter Gerber
Keyword(s):  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Sensory Feedback ◽  
Motor Task ◽  
Tactile Feedback ◽  
Proprioceptive Feedback ◽  
Motor Training ◽  
Feedback Group ◽  
Emg Feedback ◽  
The Right ◽  
Training Success

Abstract In two experiments with four and two groups of healthy subjects, a novel motor task, the voluntary abduction of the right big toe, was trained. This task cannot usually be performed without training and is therefore ideal for the study of elementary motor learning. A systematic variation of proprioceptive, tactile, visual, and EMG feedback was used. In addition to peripheral measurements such as the voluntary range of motion and EMG output during training, a three-channel EEG was recorded over Cz, C3, and C4. The movement-related brain potential during distinct periods of the training was analyzed as a central nervous parameter of the ongoing learning process. In experiment I, we randomized four groups of 12 subjects each (group P: proprioceptive feedback; group PT: proprioceptive and tactile feedback; group PTV: proprioceptive, tactile, and visual feedback; group PTEMG: proprioceptive, tactile, and EMG feedback). Best training results were reported from the PTEMG and PTV groups. The movement-preceding cortical activity, in the form of the amplitude of the readiness potential at the time of EMG onset, was greatest in these two groups. Results of experiment II revealed a similar effect, with a greater training success and a higher electrocortical activation under additional EMG feedback compared to proprioceptive feedback alone. Sensory EMG feedback as evaluated by peripheral and central nervous measurements appears to be useful in motor training and neuromuscular re-education.

scholarly journals Virtual reality video game improves high-fidelity memory in older adults

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter E. Wais ◽  
Melissa Arioli ◽  
Roger Anguera-Singla ◽  
Adam Gazzaley
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Cognitive Abilities ◽  
Environmental Enrichment ◽  
Cognitive Intervention ◽  
Therapeutic Interventions ◽  
Placebo Control ◽  
Long Term Memory ◽  
High Fidelity

AbstractTherapeutic interventions have not yet been shown to demonstrate restorative effects for declining long-term memory (LTM) that affects many healthy older adults. We developed a virtual reality (VR) spatial wayfinding game (Labyrinth-VR) as a cognitive intervention with the hypothesis that it could improve detailed, high-fidelity LTM capability. Spatial navigation tasks have been used as a means to achieve environmental enrichment via exposure to and learning about novel and complex information. Engagement has been shown to enhance learning and has been linked to the vitality of the LTM system in the brain. In the current study, 48 older adults (mean age 68.7 ± 6.4 years) with average cognitive abilities for their age were randomly assigned to 12 h of computer game play over four weeks in either the Labyrinth-VR or placebo control game arms. Promptly before and after each participant’s treatment regimen, high-fidelity LTM outcome measures were tested to assess mnemonic discrimination and other memory measures. The results showed a post-treatment gain in high-fidelity LTM capability for the Labyrinth-VR arm, relative to placebo, which reached the levels attained by younger adults in another experiment. This novel finding demonstrates generalization of benefits from the VR wayfinding game to important, and untrained, LTM capabilities. These cognitive results are discussed in the light of relevant research for hippocampal-dependent memory functions.

scholarly journals Desktop lighting for comfortable use of a computer screen

Work ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 68 (s1) ◽  
pp. S209-S221
Author(s):  
Lu Han ◽  
Hechen Zhang ◽  
Zhongxia Xiang ◽  
Jinze Shang ◽  
Shabila Anjani ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Intensity ◽  
Motion Tracking ◽  
Tracking System ◽  
Computer User ◽  
Eye Tracker ◽  
Computer Screen ◽  
Task Load ◽  
Trunk Movements ◽  
Motion Tracking System ◽  
Nasa Task Load Index

BACKGROUND: The contrast between a bright computer screen and a dark ambient environment may influence comfort of the users, especially on their eyes. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to identify the optimal desktop lighting for the comfortable use of the computer screen in a dark environment. METHODS: An experiment was designed where seven illumination setups were introduced for the users to perform their leisure tasks on a computer screen. Fifteen healthy subjects participated in the experiments. During each session, durations of the eye blinks, fixations and saccades of the user were recorded by an eye tracker. His/her neck and trunk movements were recorded by a motion tracking system as well. The comfort/discomfort questionnaire, localized postural discomfort questionnaire, NASA task load index and computer user questionnaire were used to record the overall comfort/discomfort, the local perceived physical discomfort, the cognitive workload, and general/eye health problems, respectively. RESULTS: Subjective and objective measurement results indicated that users felt more comfortable with high intensity warm lights using a computer screen. We also identified that the eye fixation durations, as well as the scores of two questions in the computer user questionnaire, have significant negative correlations with comfort. On the other side, the durations of blinks and the scores of three questions in the computer user questionnaire, were significantly correlated with discomfort. CONCLUSION: The warm (3000K) and high intensity (1500 lux) light reduced the visual and cognitive fatigue of the user and therefore improve the comfort of the user during the use of a computer screen.

scholarly journals Low-Asymmetry Interface for Multiuser VR Experiences with Both HMD and Non-HMD Users

Sensors ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 397
Author(s):  
Qimeng Zhang ◽  
Ji-Su Ban ◽  
Mingyu Kim ◽  
Hae Won Byun ◽  
Chang-Hun Kim
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Virtual Environment ◽  
Mobile Device ◽  
User Satisfaction ◽  
Virtual World ◽  
User Study ◽  
Visual Display ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Head Mounted Display ◽  
And Behavior

We propose a low-asymmetry interface to improve the presence of non-head-mounted-display (non-HMD) users in shared virtual reality (VR) experiences with HMD users. The low-asymmetry interface ensures that the HMD and non-HMD users’ perception of the VR environment is almost similar. That is, the point-of-view asymmetry and behavior asymmetry between HMD and non-HMD users are reduced. Our system comprises a portable mobile device as a visual display to provide a changing PoV for the non-HMD user and a walking simulator as an in-place walking detection sensor to enable the same level of realistic and unrestricted physical-walking-based locomotion for all users. Because this allows non-HMD users to experience the same level of visualization and free movement as HMD users, both of them can engage as the main actors in movement scenarios. Our user study revealed that the low-asymmetry interface enables non-HMD users to feel a presence similar to that of the HMD users when performing equivalent locomotion tasks in a virtual environment. Furthermore, our system can enable one HMD user and multiple non-HMD users to participate together in a virtual world; moreover, our experiments show that the non-HMD user satisfaction increases with the number of non-HMD participants owing to increased presence and enjoyment.

Neural Correspondence to Human Cognition from Analysis to Intuition – Implications of Display Design for Cognition

2017 ◽  
Vol 61 (1) ◽  
pp. 51-55 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joseph K. Nuamah ◽  
Younho Seong
Keyword(s):  
Objective Measure ◽  
Mental Effort ◽  
Human Cognition ◽  
Behavioral Measures ◽  
Display Design ◽  
Percent Correct ◽  
Task Load ◽  
Frontal Midline Theta ◽  
General Difference ◽  
Nasa Task Load Index

Psychophysiological measures can be used to determine whether a particular display produces a general difference in brain function. Such information might be valuable in efforts to improve usability in display design. In this preliminary study, we aimed to use the electroencephalography (EEG) task load index (TLI), given by the ratio of mean frontal midline theta energy to mean parietal alpha energy, to provide insight into the mental effort required by participants performing intuition-inducing and analysis-inducing tasks. We employed behavioral measures (reaction time and percent correct), and a subjective measure (NASA-Task Load Index) to validate the objective measure (TLI). The results we obtained were consistent with our hypothesis that mental effort required for analysis-inducing tasks would be different from that required for intuition-inducing tasks. Although our sample size was small, we were able to obtain a significant positive correlation between NASA-Task Load Index and TLI.

scholarly journals Fall-Prone Older People's Attitudes towards the Use of Virtual Reality Technology for Fall Prevention

Gerontology ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 63 (6) ◽  
pp. 590-598 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kim Dockx ◽  
Lisa Alcock ◽  
Esther Bekkers ◽  
Pieter Ginis ◽  
Miriam Reelick ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Older People ◽  
Fall Prevention ◽  
User Satisfaction ◽  
Treadmill Training ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Virtual Reality Technology ◽  
Positive Attitudes ◽  
People’S Attitudes ◽  
Attitudinal Changes

Background: Virtual reality (VR) technology is a relatively new rehabilitation tool that can deliver a combination of cognitive and motor training for fall prevention. The attitudes of older people to such training are currently unclear. Objective: This study aimed to investigate: (1) the attitudes of fall-prone older people towards fall prevention exercise with and without VR; (2) attitudinal changes after intervention with and without VR; and (3) user satisfaction following fall prevention exercise with and without VR. Methods: A total of 281 fall-prone older people were randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving treadmill training augmented by VR (TT+VR, n = 144) or a control group receiving treadmill training alone (TT, n = 137). Two questionnaires were used to measure (1) attitudes towards fall prevention exercise with and without VR (AQ); and (2) user satisfaction (USQ). AQ was evaluated at baseline and after intervention. USQ was measured after intervention only. Results: The AQ revealed that most participants had positive attitudes towards fall prevention exercise at baseline (82.2%) and after intervention (80.6%; p = 0.144). In contrast, only 53.6% were enthusiastic about fall prevention exercise with VR at baseline. These attitudes positively changed after intervention (83.1%; p < 0.001), and 99.2% indicated that they enjoyed TT+VR. Correlation analyses showed that postintervention attitudes were strongly related to user satisfaction (USQ: r = 0.503; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Older people's attitudes towards fall prevention exercise with VR were positively influenced by their experience. From the perspective of the user, VR is an attractive training mode, and thus improving service provision for older people is important.

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