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Pütz S, Mertens A, Chuang L, Nitsch V. Physiological measures of operators' mental state in supervisory process control tasks: a scoping review. ERGONOMICS 2024; 67:801-830. [PMID: 38031407 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2289858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Physiological measures are often used to assess the mental state of human operators in supervisory process control tasks. However, the diversity of research approaches creates a heterogeneous landscape of empirical evidence. To map existing evidence and provide guidance to researchers and practitioners, this paper systematically reviews 109 empirical studies that report relationships between peripheral nervous system measures and mental state dimensions (e.g. mental workload, mental fatigue, stress, and vigilance) of interest. Ocular and electrocardiac measures were the most prominent measures across application fields. Most studies sought to validate such measures for reliable assessments of cognitive task demands and time on task, with measures of pupil size receiving the most empirical support. In comparison, less research examined the utility of physiological measures in predicting human task performance. This approach is discussed as an opportunity to focus on operators' individual response to cognitive task demands and to advance the state of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Pütz
- Institute of Industrial Engineering and Ergonomics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alexander Mertens
- Institute of Industrial Engineering and Ergonomics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lewis Chuang
- Professorship for Humans and Technology, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Verena Nitsch
- Institute of Industrial Engineering and Ergonomics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE, Aachen, Germany
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Greenlee ET, Hess LJ, Simpson BD, Finomore VS. Vigilance to Spatialized Auditory Displays: Initial Assessment of Performance and Workload. HUMAN FACTORS 2024; 66:987-1003. [PMID: 36455164 DOI: 10.1177/00187208221139744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study was designed to evaluate human performance and workload associated with an auditory vigilance task that required spatial discrimination of auditory stimuli. BACKGROUND Spatial auditory displays have been increasingly developed and implemented into settings that require vigilance toward auditory spatial discrimination and localization (e.g., collision avoidance warnings). Research has yet to determine whether a vigilance decrement could impede performance in such applications. METHOD Participants completed a 40-minute auditory vigilance task in either a spatial discrimination condition or a temporal discrimination condition. In the spatial discrimination condition, participants differentiated sounds based on differences in spatial location. In the temporal discrimination condition, participants differentiated sounds based on differences in stimulus duration. RESULTS Correct detections and false alarms declined during the vigilance task, and each did so at a similar rate in both conditions. The overall level of correct detections did not differ significantly between conditions, but false alarms occurred more frequently within the spatial discrimination condition than in the temporal discrimination condition. NASA-TLX ratings and pupil diameter measurements indicated no differences in workload. CONCLUSION Results indicated that tasks requiring auditory spatial discrimination can induce a vigilance decrement; and they may result in inferior vigilance performance, compared to tasks requiring discrimination of auditory duration. APPLICATION Vigilance decrements may impede performance and safety in settings that depend on sustained attention to spatial auditory displays. Display designers should also be aware that auditory displays that require users to discriminate differences in spatial location may result in poorer discrimination performance than non-spatial displays.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brian D Simpson
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, USA
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Wu M, Gao Q, Liu Y. Exploring the Effects of Interruptions in Different Phases of Complex Decision-Making Tasks. HUMAN FACTORS 2023; 65:450-481. [PMID: 34061699 DOI: 10.1177/00187208211018882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aims to examine the effects of interruptions in major phases (i.e., problem-identification, alternative-development, and evaluation-and-selection) of complex decision-making tasks. BACKGROUND The ability to make complex decisions is of increasing importance in workplaces. Complex decision-making involves a multistage process and is likely to be interrupted, given the ubiquitous prevalence of interruptions in workplaces today. METHOD Sixty participants were recruited for the experiment to complete a procurement task, which required them to define goals, search for alternatives, and consider multiple attributes of alternatives to make decisions. Participants in the three experimental conditions were interrupted to respond to messages during one of these three phases, whereas participants in the control condition were not interrupted. The impacts of interruptions on performance, mental workload, and emotional states were measured through a combination of behavioral, physiological, and subjective evaluations. RESULTS Only participants who were interrupted in the evaluation-and-selection phase exhibited poorer task performance, despite their positive feelings toward interruptions and confidence. Participants who were interrupted in the problem-identification phase reported higher mental workload and more negative perceptions toward interruptions. Interruptions in the alternative-development phase led to more temporal changes in arousal and valence than interruptions in other phases. CONCLUSION Interruptions during the evaluation-and-selection phase undermine overall performance, and there is a discrepancy between behavioral outcomes and subjective perceptions of interruption effects. APPLICATION Interruptions should be avoided in the evaluation-and-selection phase in complex decision-making. This phase information can be either provided by users or inferred from coarse-grained interaction activities with decision-making information systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Wu
- Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Gao
- Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Neilson BN, Craig CM, Curiel RY, Klein MI. Restoring Attentional Resources With Nature: A Replication Study of Berto's (2005) Paradigm Including Commentary From Dr. Rita Berto. HUMAN FACTORS 2021; 63:1046-1060. [PMID: 32223571 DOI: 10.1177/0018720820909287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to replicate Berto's (2005) heavily cited work on attention restoration. BACKGROUND Nature interventions have gained increased interest for improving performance of attentionally demanding tasks. Berto (2005) indicated that viewing digital nature images could improve performance on a subsequent response inhibition task, the sustained attention to response task (SART). However, experimental design and statistical concerns about her experiments as well as failure to support her findings across multiple unpublished studies in our laboratory provided rationale for this replication study. METHOD Twenty participants were each assigned to one of three digital image conditions: nature, urban, and control. Participants performed the SART before and after digital image exposure. RESULTS SART performance metrics (total correct target responses, mean response time, and transformed d') were analyzed using 2 (SART) × 3 (image interventions) mixed design ANOVAs. The results failed to replicate Berto (2005). CONCLUSION Possible reasons for not replicating Berto (2005) are discussed, including (1) sample differences, (2) different testing environments and procedures, (3) insufficient attentional depletion, and (4) individual differences. APPLICATIONS Research needs to determine the effectiveness of such interventions, the specific attention tasks that might benefit, and the individual difference variables relevant for attention restoration.
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Chien JH, Colloca L, Korzeniewska A, Meeker TJ, Bienvenu OJ, Saffer MI, Lenz FA. Behavioral, Physiological and EEG Activities Associated with Conditioned Fear as Sensors for Fear and Anxiety. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 20:E6751. [PMID: 33255916 PMCID: PMC7728331 DOI: 10.3390/s20236751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders impose substantial costs upon public health and productivity in the USA and worldwide. At present, these conditions are quantified by self-report questionnaires that only apply to behaviors that are accessible to consciousness, or by the timing of responses to fear- and anxiety-related words that are indirect since they do not produce fear, e.g., Dot Probe Test and emotional Stroop. We now review the conditioned responses (CRs) to fear produced by a neutral stimulus (conditioned stimulus CS+) when it cues a painful laser unconditioned stimulus (US). These CRs include autonomic (Skin Conductance Response) and ratings of the CS+ unpleasantness, ability to command attention, and the recognition of the association of CS+ with US (expectancy). These CRs are directly related to fear, and some measure behaviors that are minimally accessible to consciousness e.g., economic scales. Fear-related CRs include non-phase-locked phase changes in oscillatory EEG power defined by frequency and time post-stimulus over baseline, and changes in phase-locked visual and laser evoked responses both of which include late potentials reflecting attention or expectancy, like the P300, or contingent negative variation. Increases (ERS) and decreases (ERD) in oscillatory power post-stimulus may be generalizable given their consistency across healthy subjects. ERS and ERD are related to the ratings above as well as to anxious personalities and clinical anxiety and can resolve activity over short time intervals like those for some moods and emotions. These results could be incorporated into an objective instrumented test that measures EEG and CRs of autonomic activity and psychological ratings related to conditioned fear, some of which are subliminal. As in the case of instrumented tests of vigilance, these results could be useful for the direct, objective measurement of multiple aspects of the risk, diagnosis, and monitoring of therapies for anxiety disorders and anxious personalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Hong Chien
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-7713, USA; (J.-H.C.); (T.J.M.); (M.I.S.)
| | - Luana Colloca
- Department of Pain Translational Symptom Science, School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201-1595, USA;
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201-1595, USA
| | - Anna Korzeniewska
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-7713, USA;
| | - Timothy J. Meeker
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-7713, USA; (J.-H.C.); (T.J.M.); (M.I.S.)
| | - O. Joe Bienvenu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-7713, USA;
| | - Mark I. Saffer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-7713, USA; (J.-H.C.); (T.J.M.); (M.I.S.)
| | - Fred A. Lenz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-7713, USA; (J.-H.C.); (T.J.M.); (M.I.S.)
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Emerson NM, Meeker TJ, Greenspan JD, Saffer MI, Campbell CM, Korzeniewska A, Lenz FA. Missed targets, reaction times, and arousal are related to trait anxiety and attention to pain during an experimental vigilance task with a painful target. J Neurophysiol 2020; 123:462-472. [PMID: 31596643 PMCID: PMC7052634 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00331.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although hypervigilance may play a role in some clinical pain syndromes, experimental vigilance toward painful stimuli has been studied infrequently. We evaluated vigilance toward pain by using a continuous performance task (CPT), in which subjects responded to moderately intense painful target stimuli, occurring in a train of mildly painful nontargets. We assessed nondetected targets (misses), reaction times (RTs), and psychological activation (tense arousal). During time on task in CPTs of other sensory modalities, there is an increase in misses and RTs (vigilance decrement). We hypothesized that our CPT would influence vigilance performance related to pain, anxiety, and limitation of attentional resources. The results showed a decrement in vigilance over time as misses increased, although RTs were unchanged. While mind-wandering did not influence vigilance performance, intrinsic attention to pain drove both hit RTs and number of misses. This resulted in pain-focused subjects performing worse on the CPT pain task with slower RTs and more misses per block. During the CPT, the change in stimulus salience was related to the change in pain intensity, while pain unpleasantness correlated with tense arousal. CPT performance during experimental vigilance to pain and psychological activation were related to trait anxiety, as measured by the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and neuroticism, as measured by the NEO five factor inventory. Trait anxiety and neuroticism may play important roles in an individual's predisposition to dwell on pain and interpret pain as threatening.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Subjects detected moderately painful target stimuli in a train of mildly painful nontarget stimuli, which resulted in vigilance performance metrics including missed targets, reaction times, and psychological activation. These performance metrics were related to intrinsic attention to pain and trait anxiety. Subjects with high trait anxiety and neuroticism scores, with a predisposition to attend to pain, had greater tense arousal and poorer vigilance performance, which may be important psychological aspects of vigilance to pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichole M Emerson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Timothy J Meeker
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joel D Greenspan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences and Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mark I Saffer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Claudia M Campbell
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Anna Korzeniewska
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Fred A Lenz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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Neigel AR, Claypoole VL, Smith SL, Waldfogle GE, Fraulini NW, Hancock GM, Helton WS, Szalma JL. Engaging the human operator: a review of the theoretical support for the vigilance decrement and a discussion of practical applications. THEORETICAL ISSUES IN ERGONOMICS SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/1463922x.2019.1682712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis R. Neigel
- Performance Research Laboratory, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Victoria L. Claypoole
- Performance Research Laboratory, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Samantha L. Smith
- National Research Council Research Associateship Program, Dayton, Ohio, USA
| | - Grace E. Waldfogle
- Performance Research Laboratory, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Nicholas W. Fraulini
- Performance Research Laboratory, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Gabriella M. Hancock
- Stress & Technology Applied Research (STAR) Laboratory, California State University – Long Beach, Long Beach, California, USA
| | | | - James L. Szalma
- Performance Research Laboratory, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
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Satterfield K, Harwood AE, Helton WS, Shaw TH. Does Depleting Self-Control Result in Poorer Vigilance Performance? HUMAN FACTORS 2019; 61:415-425. [PMID: 30372632 DOI: 10.1177/0018720818806151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether depleting self-control prior to vigilance results in a steeper vigilance decrement. BACKGROUND The resource-control theory of vigilance asserts that an inherent bias toward self-generated mind-wandering draws attentional resources away from the primary task. This study seeks to test whether depleting self-control, the potential mechanism of self-generated mind-wandering, results in poorer vigilance performance. METHOD This study featured a between-subjects design where participants either completed a typing task that depleted self-control resources or a standard typing task that did not require self-control before performing a vigilance task. In the self-control depletion condition, participants typed a passage while omitting any "e" and "space" keys. In the standard typing task, participants typed the same passage without skipping any keys. Following both typing tasks, participants in both conditions completed an identical 12-min vigilance task. RESULTS Results demonstrated decreased accuracy and increased reaction times over time for both groups. Depleting self-control did not result in significant differences in accuracy, reaction time, nor a steeper vigilance decrement. CONCLUSION These results provide evidence against resource-control theory and self-control as an explanation for vigilance, and provide further support for cognitive resource theory as the predominant explanation for vigilance impairments. APPLICATION It is still unclear exactly what constitutes a "resource." A better understanding of the nature of these resources can help researchers and practitioners identify how they can be replenished, which could enhance human performance in situations requiring vigilance such as baggage screening.
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The disentanglement of the neural and experiential complexity of self-generated thoughts: A users guide to combining experience sampling with neuroimaging data. Neuroimage 2019; 192:15-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2019.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Kalia V, Thomas R, Osowski K, Drew A. Staying Alert? Neural Correlates of the Association Between Grit and Attention Networks. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1377. [PMID: 30123173 PMCID: PMC6085581 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research has demonstrated that heightened motivational levels promote enhanced attention capabilities. However, the relation between attentional systems and the trait-based ability to sustain a motivational state long-term is less understood. Grit refers to one's ability and willingness to pursue long-term goals despite setbacks. This report presents the results of two studies conducted to examine the relation between facets of Grit-Consistency and Perseverance and attention networks, assessed using the Attention Network Test (ANT). Across both studies Grit-Perseverance was related to performance on the ANT. In Study 1, Grit-Perseverance was negatively related to alerting indicating that individuals who were high on Perseverance were more likely to show a smaller alerting effect. In particular, Grit-Perseverance was negatively correlated with reaction times in the no cue trials. In Study 2, we assessed ERP components associated with attention networks. Individuals with higher scores on Grit-Perseverance were more likely to demonstrate smaller mean difference in N1 amplitudes for double cue relative to no cue trials, suggesting an attenuated alerting effect. Our findings indicate that individuals high on Grit-Perseverance may have enhanced sustained attention. Specifically individuals with high Grit-Perseverance appear to exhibit a more efficient alerting system in the no cue trials. Implications of high levels of Grit on cognitive performance are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vrinda Kalia
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
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Wei Y, Zheng J, So RHY. Allocating less attention to central vision during vection is correlated with less motion sickness. ERGONOMICS 2018; 61:933-946. [PMID: 29325490 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2018.1427805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Visually induced motion sickness (VIMS) is a common discomfort response associated with vection-provoking stimuli. It has been suggested that susceptibility to VIMS depends on the ability to regulate visual performance during vection. To test this, 29 participants, with VIMS susceptibility assessed by Motion Sickness Susceptibility Questionnaire, were recruited to undergo three series of sustained attention to response tests (SARTs) while watching dot pattern stimuli known to provoke roll-vection. In general, SARTs performance was impaired in the central visual field (CVF), but improved in peripheral visual field (PVF), suggesting the reallocation of attention during vection. Moreover, VIMS susceptibility was negatively correlated with the effect sizes, suggesting that participants who were less susceptible to VIMS showed better performance in attention re-allocation. Finally, when trained to re-allocation attention from the CVF to the PVF, participants experienced more stable vection. Findings provide a better understanding of VIMS and shed light on possible preventive measures. Practitioner Summary: Allocating less visual attention to central visual field during visual motion stimulation is associated with stronger vection and higher resistance to motion sickness. Virtual reality application designers may utilise the location of visual tasks to strengthen and stabilise vection, while reducing the potential of visually induced motion sickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wei
- a Bio-Engineering Program, School of Engineering , HKUST , Hong Kong , PR China
- c Computational Ergonomics Laboratory , HKUST-Shenzhen Research Institute , Shenzhen , PR China
| | - Jiayue Zheng
- a Bio-Engineering Program, School of Engineering , HKUST , Hong Kong , PR China
- c Computational Ergonomics Laboratory , HKUST-Shenzhen Research Institute , Shenzhen , PR China
| | - Richard H Y So
- a Bio-Engineering Program, School of Engineering , HKUST , Hong Kong , PR China
- b Department of Industrial Engineering and Logistics Management , The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology , Hong Kong , PR China
- c Computational Ergonomics Laboratory , HKUST-Shenzhen Research Institute , Shenzhen , PR China
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F. Wong K, A. A. Massar S, Chee MWL, Lim J. Towards an Objective Measure of Mindfulness: Replicating and Extending the Features of the Breath-Counting Task. Mindfulness (N Y) 2018; 9:1402-1410. [PMID: 30294387 PMCID: PMC6153891 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-017-0880-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite calls for objective measures of mindfulness to be adopted in the field, such practices have not yet become established. Recently, a breath-counting task (BCT) was proposed as a reliable and valid candidate for such an instrument. In this study, we show that the psychometric properties of the BCT are reproducible in a sample of 127 Asian undergraduates. Specifically, accuracy on the BCT was associated with everyday lapses and sustained attention, and weakly associated with subjectively measured mindfulness. BCT metrics also showed good test-retest reliability. Extending the use of the paradigm, we further found that two different types of task errors-miscounts and resets-were correlated with different aspects of cognition. Miscounts, or errors made without awareness, were associated with attentional lapses, whereas resets, or self-caught errors, were associated with mind-wandering. The BCT may be a suitable candidate for the standardized measurement of mindfulness that could be used in addition to mindfulness questionnaires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kian F. Wong
- Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders Department, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, #02-21, Singapore, 169857 Singapore
| | - Stijn A. A. Massar
- Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders Department, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, #02-21, Singapore, 169857 Singapore
| | - Michael W. L. Chee
- Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders Department, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, #02-21, Singapore, 169857 Singapore
| | - Julian Lim
- Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders Department, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, #02-21, Singapore, 169857 Singapore
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Inhibiting the Physiological Stress Effects of a Sustained Attention Task on Shoulder Muscle Activity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15010115. [PMID: 29324693 PMCID: PMC5800214 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15010115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate if a breathing technique could counteract the effects of hyperventilation due to a sustained attention task on shoulder muscle activity. Background: The trend towards higher levels of automation in industry is increasing. Consequently, manufacturing operators often monitor automated process for long periods of their work shift. Prolonged monitoring work requires sustained attention, which is a cognitive process that humans are typically poor at and find stressful. As sustained attention becomes an increasing requirement of manufacturing operators’ job content, the resulting stress experienced could contribute to the onset of many health problems, including work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Methods: The SART attention test was completed by a group of participants before and after a breathing intervention exercise. The effects of the abdominal breathing intervention on breathing rate, upper trapezius muscle activity and end-tidal CO2 were evaluated. Results: The breathing intervention reduced the moderation effect of end-tidal CO2 on upper trapezius muscle activity. Conclusions: Abdominal breathing could be a useful technique in reducing the effects of sustained attention work on muscular activity. Application: This research can be applied to highly-automated manufacturing industries, where prolonged monitoring of work is widespread and could, in its role as a stressor, be a potential contributor to WRMSDs.
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Baldwin CL, Lewis BA. Positive valence music restores executive control over sustained attention. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186231. [PMID: 29145395 PMCID: PMC5690656 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Music sometimes improves performance in sustained attention tasks. But the type of music employed in previous investigations has varied considerably, which can account for equivocal results. Progress has been hampered by lack of a systematic database of music varying in key characteristics like tempo and valence. The aims of this study were to establish a database of popular music varying along the dimensions of tempo and valence and to examine the impact of music varying along these dimensions on restoring attentional resources following performance of a sustained attention to response task (SART) vigil. Sixty-nine participants rated popular musical selections that varied in valence and tempo to establish a database of four musical types: fast tempo positive valence, fast tempo negative valence, slow tempo positive valence, and slow tempo negative valence. A second group of 89 participants performed two blocks of the SART task interspersed with either no break or a rest break consisting of 1 of the 4 types of music or silence. Presenting positive valence music (particularly of slow tempo) during an intermission between two successive blocks of the SART significantly decreased miss rates relative to negative valence music or silence. Results support an attentional restoration theory of the impact of music on sustained attention, rather than arousal theory and demonstrate a means of restoring sustained attention. Further, the results establish the validity of a music database that will facilitate further investigations of the impact of music on performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carryl L. Baldwin
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Bridget A. Lewis
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States of America
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Funke ME, Warm JS, Matthews G, Funke GJ, Chiu PY, Shaw TH, Greenlee ET. The Neuroergonomics of Vigilance. HUMAN FACTORS 2017; 59:62-75. [PMID: 28146671 DOI: 10.1177/0018720816683121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the effects of uncertainty about where in the field of view critical signals for detection appear during a vigilance task (spatial uncertainty) on cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and oculomotor fatigue. BACKGROUND Neuroergonomics is a dimension of human factors founded by Raja Parasuraman that studies brain functions underlying performance at work. Neuroergonomic studies have shown that observers in vigilance tasks lose information-processing resources over time and experience oculomotor fatigue as indexed by a temporal decline in CBFV and elevation in eye closure as reflected in the PERCLOS metric. Because spatial uncertainty increases an observer's need for visual scanning relative to a spatial certainty condition, it was anticipated that spatial uncertainty would result in a greater temporal decline in CBFV and increased eye closure in a vigilance session. METHOD Observers performed a simulated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) control task wherein collision flight paths were the events to be detected. UAV images could appear at random in any one of five locations on the controller's display (spatial uncertainty) or only in a fixed location (spatial certainty). RESULTS Signal detection was poorer in the spatial-uncertain relative to the certain condition, and predictions regarding CBFV and eye closure were confirmed. CONCLUSION Vigilance tasks involving spatial uncertainty are more neurophysiologically taxing than those in which spatial uncertainty is not a factor. APPLICATION The neuroergonomic approach helps in understanding the effects of psychophysical factors in vigilance and to signify when performance aiding is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E Funke
- Naval Medical Research Unit Dayton, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
| | - Joel S Warm
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
| | | | - Gregory J Funke
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
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16
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Funke GJ, Warm JS, Baldwin CL, Garcia A, Funke ME, Dillard MB, Finomore VS, Matthews G, Greenlee ET. The Independence and Interdependence of Coacting Observers in Regard to Performance Efficiency, Workload, and Stress in a Vigilance Task. HUMAN FACTORS 2016; 58:915-926. [PMID: 27150529 DOI: 10.1177/0018720816646657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated performance, workload, and stress in groups of paired observers who performed a vigilance task in a coactive (independent) manner. BACKGROUND Previous studies have demonstrated that groups of coactive observers detect more signals in a vigilance task than observers working alone. Therefore, the use of such groups might be effective in enhancing signal detection in operational situations. However, concern over appearing less competent than one's cohort might induce elevated levels of workload and stress in coactive group members and thereby undermine group performance benefits. Accordingly, we performed the initial experiment comparing workload and stress in observers who performed a vigilance task coactively with those of observers who performed the vigilance task alone. METHOD Observers monitored a video display for collision flight paths in a simulated unmanned aerial vehicle control task. Self-reports of workload and stress were secured via the NASA-Task Load Index and the Dundee Stress State Questionnaire, respectively. RESULTS Groups of coactive observers detected significantly more signals than did single observers. Coacting observers did not differ significantly from those operating by themselves in terms of workload but did in regard to stress; posttask distress was significantly lower for coacting than for single observers. CONCLUSION Performing a visual vigilance task in a coactive manner with another observer does not elevate workload above that of observers working alone and serves to attenuate the stress associated with vigilance task performance. APPLICATION The use of coacting observers could be an effective vehicle for enhancing performance efficiency in operational vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Funke
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OhioGeorge Mason University, Fairfax, VirginiaNorthrop Grumman Corporation, Melbourne, FloridaNaval Medical Research Unit Dayton, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OhioHoneywell International, Inc., Golden Valley, MinnesotaUnited States Air Force Academy, ColoradoUniversity of Central Florida, OrlandoNational Research Council, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
| | - Joel S Warm
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
| | | | - Andre Garcia
- Northrop Grumman Corporation, Melbourne, Florida
| | - Matthew E Funke
- Naval Medical Research Unit Dayton, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
| | | | | | | | - Eric T Greenlee
- National Research Council, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
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Wilson KM, Head J, de Joux NR, Finkbeiner KM, Helton WS. Friendly Fire and the Sustained Attention to Response Task. HUMAN FACTORS 2015; 57:1219-1234. [PMID: 26408648 DOI: 10.1177/0018720815605703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated whether losses of inhibitory control could be responsible for some friendly-fire incidents. BACKGROUND Several factors are commonly cited to explain friendly-fire incidents, but failure of inhibitory control has not yet been explored. The Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART) could be a valid model for inhibition failures in some combat scenarios. METHOD Participants completed small-arms simulations using near infrared emitter guns, confronting research assistants acting as friends or foes. In Experiment 1, seven participants completed three conditions with three different proportions of foes (high, medium, low). In Experiment 2, 13 participants completed high-foe (high-go) and low-foe (low-go) versions of a small-arms simulation as well as comparative computer tasks. RESULTS Participants made more friendly-fire errors (errors of commission) when foe proportion was high. A speed-accuracy trade-off was apparent, with participants who were faster to fire on foes also more likely to accidentally shoot friends. When foe proportion was higher, response times to foe stimuli were faster, and subjective workload ratings were higher. CONCLUSION Failures of inhibitory control may be responsible for some friendly-fire incidents and the SART could be a suitable empirical model for some battlefield environments. The effect appears to be disproportionately greater at higher foe proportions. The exact nature of performance reductions associated with high-foe proportions requires further investigation. APPLICATION The SART may be a useful model of friendly-fire scenarios. It could be used to indicate a soldier's likelihood to commit a friendly-fire mistake and to identify high-risk environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James Head
- University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Casner SM, Schooler JW. Vigilance impossible: Diligence, distraction, and daydreaming all lead to failures in a practical monitoring task. Conscious Cogn 2015; 35:33-41. [PMID: 25966369 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2015.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In laboratory studies of vigilance, participants watch for unusual events in a "sit and stare" fashion as their performance typically declines over time. But watch keepers in practical settings seldom approach monitoring in such simplistic ways and controlled environments. We observed airline pilots performing routine monitoring duties in the cockpit. Unlike laboratory studies, pilots' monitoring did not deteriorate amidst prolonged vigils. Monitoring was frequently interrupted by other pop-up tasks and misses followed. However, when free from these distractions, pilots reported copious mind wandering. Pilots often confined their mind wandering to times in which their monitoring performance would not conspicuously suffer. But when no convenient times were available, pilots mind wandered anyway and misses ensued. Real-world monitors may be caught between a continuous vigilance approach that is doomed to fail, a dynamic environment that cannot be fully controlled, and what may be an irresistible urge to let one's thoughts drift.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Casner
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Mail Stop 262-4, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA.
| | - Jonathan W Schooler
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA.
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