The research and development leading to the above described vibration test was funded by the European Research Council (ERC, ADG 294678) and the German Research Council (grant, SFB665). Thanks go to the Max-Delbr&#252;ck-Center technical and support staff, Mr. R. Fischer, B. Neumann, and Mr. M. Pflaume, who provided invaluable assistance with the project.

Il protocollo di test è stato approvato dal Comitato Etico Charité-Universitätsmedizin. 1. rilevamento delle vibrazioni Soglia (VDT) <ol><li> Dispositivo e montaggio protocollo di test - Pretesting <ol><li> Assemblare i componenti del dispositivo di figura 1A. Posizionare un bordo di superficie liscia (40 cm x 80 cm) su un tavolo. Posizionare la barra di ottone sulla scheda. </li><li> Collegare l&#39;attuatore piezoelettrico (vibrazione stimolatore) all&#39;unità di controllo. </li><li> Collegare la scatola di risposta e il dispositivo monitor al sistema di acquisizione dati (vedi file di codice supplementare). </li><li> Collegare il sistema di acquisizione dati ad un computer (o laptop), e per piezo unità di controllo attuatore. </li><li> Fissare la misura stimolante sonda alla parte mobile dell&#39;attuatore piezoelettrico (per le specifiche della sonda vedere Materials). </li><li> Montare l&#39;attuatore piezoelettrico con la sonda sulla barra di ottone equilibrata. </li></ol></li><li> test Protocol <ol><li> Script un protocollo di prova che implementa la scelta forzata di due intervalli e-regola trasformato su e giù il metodo. Vedere file di codice supplementare per una descrizione dei script. </li><li> Costruire la forma d&#39;onda dello stimolo vibrazioni come un&#39;onda sinusoidale e specificare la durata di stimolo, salire e scendere le caratteristiche. <ol><li> Aprire il software (ad esempio, LabChart). Selezionare Impostazione&gt; stimolatore. </li><li> Scegli una forma d&#39;onda personalizzato e configurare le opzioni stimolatore. Crea 2 forme d&#39;onda di stimolo relativi a ciascun intervallo (STIM1 e stim2). NOTA: Il STIM1 forma d&#39;onda è costituita da 3 parti: un ritardo di 4 secondi, seguita da un&#39;onda sinusoidale di 1,8 sec, e un ritardo di 1,8 sec (senza stimolo). La forma d&#39;onda STIM 2 è costituita da 3 parti: un ritardo di 4 secondi, seguito un ritardo di 1,8 sec (senza stimolo), e da un&#39;onda sinusoidale di 1,8 sec. </li><li> Per la forma d&#39;onda sinusoidale, creare nuovi parametri variabili per frequenza e ampiezza. modify la funzione d&#39;onda sinusoidale inserendo le seguenti funzioni per l&#39;ascesa e la caduta. Aumento della forma d&#39;onda: (1-e -BT) ∙ ∙ ampiezza sinusoidale (frequenza), b = 9.1 Autunno forma d&#39;onda: (e -BT) ∙ ∙ ampiezza sinusoidale (frequenza), b = 9.1 </li><li> Nel pannello dati del grafico laboratorio, creare una serie di 35 uscite in tensione relativi ai 35 intensità di ampiezza (o livelli) dello stimolo vibrazioni. Vedere la Tabella 1. </li></ol></li><li> Impostare l&#39;ampiezza di partenza / default dello stimolo di vibrazione per la frequenza di vibrazione testato nello script macro per la procedura di test (vedi sezione supplementare file di codice). </li></ol></li><li> Preparazione e formazione di soggetti - Test Session <ol><li> Informare i soggetti di prova circa la procedura di test e li hanno firmare un modulo di consenso scritto. Per garantire l&#39;anonimato e soddisfare i requisiti di protezione dei dati, assegnare ad ogni partecipante un numero. </li><li> Sedile i soggetti comodamentein una stanza tranquilla a temperature comprese tra 20-30 ° C. istruirli sul test in modo semplice e chiaro in modo che il soggetto sa che cosa aspettarsi durante il test. </li><li> Posizionare il braccio del soggetto sulla scheda. Pad il mignolo con la pasta medica per ridurre al minimo il movimento. Posizionare la barra di ottone sulla tavola per posizionare la sonda sul mignolo della mano testato appena sotto il letto ungueale. Garantire contatto tra la sonda e la pelle e regolare la posizione della sonda in posizione orizzontale con il livello dell&#39;acqua. Evitare il contatto con i bordi della sonda piatta circolare. NOTA: Questo assicura che la superficie piatta della sonda applica circa 30 g (0,3 N) alla superficie della pelle. Gli spigoli vivi possono portare a soglie di rilevamento diminuito. La massa pesante della barra di ottone impedisce la trasmissione delle oscillazioni distrarre dalle frazioni al dispositivo e minimizza la dissipazione dell&#39;onda sinusoidale applicata. </li><li> Prima della prova, ottenere il partecipantes familiarizzato con la messa a punto. A seconda della frequenza di test, presente sia un facile (livello 23) e un disco (livello 7) per percepire stimoli vibrazioni variando l&#39;ampiezza finché il soggetto percepisce una vibrazione per garantire che la procedura sperimentale è capito. </li><li> Se necessario, ripristinare la partenza di ampiezza (default) alla frequenza selezionata in modo che il soggetto può facilmente rilevare lo stimolo all&#39;avvio del protocollo di test (vedi 1.2.3). </li><li> Ridurre al minimo le interazioni tra soggetto ed esaminatore durante la prova. </li><li> Inizia il test eseguendo lo script che utilizza la procedura di scelta forzata a due alternative con il metodo adattivo up-down 22. NOTA: Le azioni in 1.3.7-1.3.12 sono automatizzate per lo script del programma. </li><li> In ciascuna prova, gestire in modo casuale uno stimolo vibrazione durante uno dei due intervalli che sono visivamente indicati alla prova soggetto come &quot;1&quot; e &quot;2&quot; sullo schermo del monitor (Figura 1B).Avere il soggetto indicare se la prima o la seconda intervalli sequenziali contenevano lo stimolo di vibrazione premendo uno dei due pulsanti &quot;1&quot; o &quot;2&quot; sulla casella di risposta. Lasciate che il soggetto fare un&#39;ipotesi, se lui o lei non è sicuro quando lo stimolo è presentato. NOTA: La tecnica scelta forzata richiede che il soggetto risponde anche quando la vibrazione non è percepito. </li><li> In una serie di prova, che consiste di 6 ad un massimo di 9 prove singole, ripetere lo stesso stimolo vibrazioni ad un livello di ampiezza almeno sei volte consecutivamente. Se le risposte sono tutti corretti, ridurre il livello di stimolo intensità (in basso regola) per la successiva serie di prove. </li><li> In base alla regola di decisione del metodo adattivo (operatori logici nello script), concedere il soggetto più prove per la stessa intensità dello stimolo se il soggetto fa errori in una serie di prova. Ridurre l&#39;intensità dello stimolo se lo stimolo è correttamente identificato in almeno 5 prove, e non correttamente in meno di 2prove. </li><li> Aumentare il livello di stimolo se il soggetto rende le 2 risposte errate in una serie di prova; o, più di una risposta non corretta e meno di 5 risposte corrette. </li><li> Documentare il cambiamento della direzione di intensità dello stimolo, come punto di inversione. Modificare l&#39;intensità dello stimolo in base al numero del punto di inversione: prima del terzo punto di inversione da 4 livelli di intensità; al 3 ° punto di inversione da 2 livelli di intensità; il resto di 1 livello (per maggiori dettagli vedi file di codice supplementare e figura 4B). </li><li> Terminare la prova quando il soggetto completa un totale di 8 inversioni. </li><li> Calcolare il VDT prendendo la mediana del valore dello stimolo ampiezza degli ultimi 6 inversioni. </li></ol></li></ol> 2. tattile spaziale Acuity test <ol><li> Determinare l&#39;acuità tattile con un test di orientamento a due alternative scelta forzata reticolo utilizzando la tattile Acuity Cube (TAC). Il TAC è composto da 6 lati contenenti ciascunaun reticolo (bar e femmina) la cui larghezza è 0,75 millimetri, 1,25 millimetri, 1,75 millimetri, 3,0 millimetri, 4,5 millimetri, e 6,0 mm. </li><li> soggetti di seduta in una stanza tranquilla a temperature comprese tra 20-30 ° C e istruire il compito. </li><li> Durante l&#39;esperimento, bendare i soggetti del test che utilizzano gli occhiali schermati. Posizionare la mano dominante su un tavolo con la superficie palmare rivolta verso l&#39;alto. </li><li> In ciascuna prova, applicare la TAC al pad dito su uno dei due orientamenti reticolo: verticale (direzione parallela) o orizzontalmente (direzione trasversale) allineato all&#39;asse lungo del dito. Casualmente scegliere l&#39;ordine dell&#39;orientamento griglia per ogni prova. </li><li> Applicare le grate del TAC per 2 secondi al pad dito del dito indice in modo che il cubo esercita tutto il suo peso sul dito (233 g). Evitare di premere il TAC sul pad dito. </li><li> Chiedi soggetti per determinare l&#39;orientamento del allineamento entro il cubo viene rimosso dal dito. </li><li> Evitare il movimento di fi del partecipantedito perché potrebbe fornire uno spunto per l&#39;orientamento. Eliminare il processo se lo sperimentatore rileva che il dito si è mosso. NOTA: Attenzione che i movimenti delle dita piccole potrebbero non essere rilevati dallo sperimentatore nella procedura. </li><li> Utilizzare un two-down e one-up metodo adattivo nell&#39;algoritmo scala. </li><li> Inizia con il più grande reticolo, 6,0 millimetri. </li><li> Diminuire la larghezza reticolo dopo due corretta identificazione dell&#39;orientamento (risposta corretta). </li><li> Testare il prossimo larghezza, più piccolo e continuare con la regola passo fino a quando il soggetto fa una risposta non corretta e documentare la larghezza reticolo come un punto di inversione. </li><li> Aumentare nuovamente la larghezza graduale reticolo finché i due orientamenti di larghezza sono determinati nuovo correttamente. </li><li> Terminare il test dopo il completamento di tredici inversioni. </li><li> Calcolare la soglia di orientamento reticolo tattile prendendo la mediana delle larghezze reticolo delle ultime 10 inversioni. </li></ol>

<ol>
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M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+Tactile+Automated+Passive-Finger+Stimulator+(TAPS).">A Tactile Automated Passive-Finger Stimulator (TAPS).</a> J Vis Exp. (28), (2009).</li><li>Coste, B., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Piezo+proteins+are+pore-forming+subunits+of+mechanically+activated+channels.">Piezo proteins are pore-forming subunits of mechanically activated channels.</a> Nature. 483 (7388), 176-181 (2012).</li><li>Martinez-Salgado, C., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Stomatin+and+Sensory+Neuron+Mechanotransduction.">Stomatin and Sensory Neuron Mechanotransduction.</a> J Neurophysiol. 98 (6), 3802-3808 (2007).</li></ol>

The authors have nothing to disclose.

Le tecniche utilizzate per valutare VDT variano da specifiche del dispositivo, hardware e protocolli di sperimentazione. L&#39;Organizzazione Internazionale per la Standardizzazione specifica i metodi e le procedure per analizzare e interpretare le soglie vibrotattili comprese le raccomandazioni per i vari componenti di un vibrometro (ISO 13.091-1 e 2 26,27) Il sistema di prova descritto si attiene alle pertinenti raccomandazioni ISO per gamma di frequenza di prova (4-125 Hz), il metodo (variante di scala up-...

Specialized mechanosensory receptors in the skin mediate the perception of vibration and grating orientation. Each mechanosensory receptor type is tuned to detect distinct features of tactile stimuli1,2. This property provides the psychophysical basis for a differentiated assessment of mechanosensory function by using tests that deliver simple sinusoidal oscillations (vibration) or fine gratings. It is known that psychophysical thresholds for vibration perception are lower for high than low frequency vibration3,4. Two types of rapidly adapting mechanoreceptors associated with the Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles primarily detect low (10-40 Hz) and high (100-200 Hz) frequency vibration stimuli, respectively5. It is thought that the psychophysical thresholds for vibration perception rely to a considerable extent on the activation of these two sets of mechanoreceptors at their best frequencies6,7. Tactile spatial acuity is tested by the grating orientation task to determine the finest grating whose orientation can be discriminated by a subject7-9. Merkel cell-neurite complex afferents are essential for detecting grating orientation8,10. Interestingly, there has been considerable recent progress in our understanding of the molecular basis of how mechanoreceptors detect extremely small tactile stimuli11. Mechanosensitive ion channels like Piezo2 and modulators like STOML3 have been directly implicated in the detection of fine tactile stimuli in touch receptors12-15. There are already human patients identified with function altering mutations in the Piezo2 gene and it will be important to test whether such patients have touch deficits16. 
The determination of the vibrotactile threshold relies on the delivery of a vibrating stimulus to the skin. Vibration detection thresholds vary with the vibration frequency. Vibration frequency to detection threshold curves were described by von Bekesey, Verillo, and Bolanowski, among many others, from the 1930s up to the 1990s5,17. The devices in the early days were based on shakers and power amplifiers and several devices have been commercialized and there are a lot of variation as to choice of stimulator (testing frequency), the diameter of the probe in contact with skin, the use of a surround to limit the stimulation to one area of the skin, and the testing protocol that determines the threshold (see the following references for more detailed insight on the device and testing features)18-20. Most devices usually test one site; however, there are new devices that use vertical displacement stimulators equipped with 2 probes to deliver vibratory stimuli with separation ranges that can be varied21. Also detection thresholds are measured based on vibration frequency or intensity discrimination with continuous stimulation; or with intermittent vibration stimuli with or without a masking stimulus. Therefore, we recommend that the reader be aware of the plethora of developments in this field. 
Here, we describe the components of the device and a step-by-step guide on how to conduct psychophysical tests to estimate vibration detection threshold in human subjects. We then show how to assess tactile acuity manually by using the tactile acuity cube. We use a two-interval, forced-choice paradigm: the stimulus is always presented during one of two intervals and the subject has to indicate which interval has the vibration stimulus. We employ a transformed-rule up and down as the adaptive method that executes a threshold search by changing the stimulus intensity based on the performance during the test. Both psychophysical protocols can be used by investigators as a screening tool for evaluation of alterations in touch sensitivity.

<table><tbody><tr><td>Piezo actuator</td><td>Physik Instrument, Germany</td><td>P-602.1L</td><td>The linear piezoelectric actuator, with integrated position sensor and motion amplifier, contains a piezoceramic material that elongates and contracts when voltage is applied. The piezoelectric actuator travels up to100 &amp;micro;m. The actuator is equipped with a flexure guide that ensures straight motion without tilting or lateral offset. The displacement is linear and calibration is done and checked by the manufacturer. It is recommended that on-axis movement of the probe be checked under the microscope. According to the manufacturer, the stimulus amplitude dampens by less than 20% at oscillating frequencies of 1000 Hz. This can be checked by using a force or displacement measuring device (e.g. force transducer from Kleindiek).</td></tr><tr><td>Piezo Amplifier/Servo Controller</td><td>Physik Instrument, Germany</td><td>E-665</td><td>E-665 amplifier/controller drives and controls the displacement of a low-voltage piezoelectric actuator in a system with sensor position feedback (SGS sensors). The servo-controller provides the option for closed loop operation. When applying sinusoidal and oscillating stimuli the amplitude signal deviates from the set amplitude starting from 500 Hz and reaches a maximum decrease of 20% at 1000Hz.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>LabChart Software</td><td>ADInstruments, USA</td><td>LabChart 7, MLU60/8</td><td>Can create, store and run macro of the psychophysical testing algorithm.&amp;nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>PowerLab</td><td>ADInstruments, USA</td><td>PowerLab 4/35 PL3504</td><td>Data Acquisition Hardware. Used with LabChart software.</td></tr><tr><td>Brass bar</td><td>Custom-made</td><td></td><td>Bar made of pure brass, weighs 15.5 kg. When the peizoelectric actuator is mounted on the brass bar it should exert a force of 30 g weight on skin surface.</td></tr><tr><td>Monitor</td><td>Custom-made</td><td></td><td>To mark the 1st and the 2nd interval. The monitor indicates to the subject the time intervals during which the stimulus may be presented.</td></tr><tr><td>Response box</td><td>Custom-made</td><td></td><td>The subject indicates the interval at which stimulus occurred.&amp;nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Board&amp;nbsp;</td><td>Custom-made</td><td></td><td>Upper surface should be smooth (Plastic), lower surface made of foam to prevent stray vibration ot be transmitted to the stimulating pobe.&amp;nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Probe</td><td>Custom-made</td><td></td><td>A flat circular probe with smoothed edges (thermoplastic material) attached to a screw head. The screw should be of appropriate size to be tightened directly to the moving part of piezoelectric actuator. Size of the probe can be according to preference; in our case, diameter 8.21 mm and surface area 52.9 mm&lt;sup&gt;2.&lt;/sup&gt;</td></tr><tr><td>Labchart Script</td><td></td><td></td><td>Can be sent on request. See supplementary code file.&amp;nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Tactile Acuity Cube</td><td>MedCore</td><td></td><td>The cube is comprised of 6 sides each containing a grating (bar and groove) whose widths are 0.75, 1.25, 1.75, 3.0, 4.5, and 6.0 mm.&amp;nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>

measurement of vibration detection threshold and tactile spatial acuity in human subjects

Tests that allow the precise determination of psychophysical thresholds for vibration and grating orientation provide valuable information about mechanosensory function that are relevant for clinical diagnosis as well as for basic research. Here, we describe two psychophysical tests designed to determine the vibration detection threshold (automated system) and tactile spatial acuity (handheld device). Both procedures implement a two-interval forced-choice and a transformed-rule up and down experimental paradigm. These tests have been used to obtain mechanosensory profiles for individuals from distinct human cohorts such as twins or people with sensorineural deafness.

L&#39;attuatore piezoelettrico fornisce lo stimolo vibrazioni al soggetto. Lo stimolo di vibrazione ha una durata complessiva di 1,8 sec e viene presentata solo una volta durante una prova durante il primo o secondo intervallo (Figura 2A). L&#39;ascesa e la caduta di tempo al momento della comparsa e offset dello stimolo è determinato, rispettivamente, in cui dalle funzioni (1-e -BT) ∙ ∙ ampiezza sinusoidale (frequenza), e (e -BT) ∙ ∙ ampie...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Measurement of Vibration Detection Threshold and Tactile Spatial Acuity in Human Subjects at JoVE.com

Measurement of Vibration Detection Threshold and Tactile Spatial Acuity in Human Subjects

Qui, vi presentiamo i protocolli per determinare le soglie di rilevamento delle vibrazioni e l&#39;acuità tattile con metodi psicofisici nell&#39;uomo.

Misura di rilevamento delle vibrazioni Soglia e tattile spaziale Acuity in soggetti umani

Tests that allow the precise determination of psychophysical thresholds for vibration and grating orientation provide valuable information about ...

measurement-vibration-detection-threshold-tactile-spatial-acuity

Research

JoVE Journal

Behavior

12.6K Views.  Charite Universitätsmedzin, Campus Virchow Klinikum und Campus Charite Mitte.  Qui, vi presentiamo i protocolli per determinare le soglie di rilevamento delle vibrazioni e l'acuità tattile con metodi psicofisici nell'uomo. 

Video: Measurement of Vibration Detection Threshold and Tactile Spatial Acuity in Human Subjects

Acute and Chronic Tactile Sensory Testing after Spinal Cord Injury in Rats

Spinal cord injury (SCI) impairs sensory systems causing allodynia1-8. To identify cellular and molecular causes of allodynia, sensitive and valid sensory testing in rat SCI models is needed. However, until recently, no single testing approach had been validated for SCI so that standardized methods have not been implemented across labs. Additionally, available testing methods could not be implemented acutely or when severe motor impairments existed, preventing studies of the development of SCI-induced allodynia3. Here we present two validated sensory testing methods using von Frey Hair (VFH) monofilaments which quantify changes in tactile sensory thresholds after SCI4-5. One test is the well-established Up-Down test which demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity across different SCI severities when tested chronically5. The other test is a newly-developed dorsal VFH test that can be applied acutely after SCI when allodynia develops, prior to motor recovery4-5. Each VFH monofilament applies a calibrated force when touched to the skin of the hind paw until it bends. In the up-down method, alternating VFHs of higher or lower forces are used on the plantar L5 dermatome to delineate flexor withdrawal thresholds. Successively higher forces are applied until withdrawal occurs then lower force VFHs are used until withdrawal ceases. The tactile threshold reflects the force required to elicit withdrawal in 50% of the stimuli. For the new test, each VFH is applied to the dorsal L5 dermatome of the paw while the rat is supported by the examiner. The VFH stimulation occurs in ascending order of force until at least 2 of 3 applications at a given force produces paw withdrawal. Tactile sensory threshold is the lowest force to elicit withdrawal 66% of the time. Acclimation, testing and scoring procedures are described. Aberrant trials that require a retest and typical trials are defined. Animal use was approved by Ohio State University Animal Care and Use Committee.

We describe two tactile sensory testing methods for acute or chronic periods of spinal cord injury in rats. These validated procedures can detect the development and maintenance of allodynia-like sensations.

Acuta e Cronica test sensoriale tattile dopo lesione del midollo spinale in ratti

Spinal cord injury (SCI) impairs sensory systems causing allodynia1-8. To identify cellular and molecular causes of allodynia, sensitive and valid sensory ...

Ricerca

Medicina

Testing Tactile Masking between the Forearms

Masking, in which one stimulus affects the detection of another, is a classic technique that has been used in visual, auditory, and tactile research, usually using stimuli that are close together to reveal local interactions. Masking effects have also been demonstrated in which a tactile stimulus alters the perception of a touch at a distant location. Such effects can provide insight into how components of the body's representations in the brain may be linked. Occasional reports have indicated that touches on one hand or forearm can affect tactile sensitivity at corresponding contralateral locations. To explore the matching of corresponding points across the body, we can measure the spatial tuning and effect of posture on contralateral masking. Careful controls are required to rule out direct effects of the remote stimulus, for example by mechanical transmission, and also attention effects in which thresholds may be altered by the participant's attention being drawn away from the stimulus of interest. The use of this technique is beneficial as a behavioural measure for exploring which parts of the body are functionally connected and whether the two sides of the body interact in a somatotopic representation. This manuscript describes a behavioural protocol that can be used for studying contralateral tactile masking.

Here we explore contralateral tactile masking between the forearms in which tactile detection thresholds are modulated by vibration applied to a remote site. The details of which remote sites have an effect can tell us about how the body is represented in the brain.

Test tattile mascheramento tra gli avambracci

Masking, in which one stimulus affects the detection of another, is a classic technique that has been used in visual, auditory, and tactile research, ...

Comportamento

A Simple Non-invasive Method for Temporary Knockdown of Upper Limb Proprioception

Proprioception may be the least well measured of all contributors to the neural control of movement. New precise, reliable measures of proprioception are needed for clinical diagnosis of impairment, and to measure outcomes of proprioceptive training. The purpose of this simple, non-invasive method is to temporarily knockdown upper limb proprioception in healthy adults, to an extent that would be useful in the development and testing of upper limb proprioception measures. Knockdown models have two main advantages over studying humans with impaired proprioception: participant availability and the ability to control the extent of impairment across participants. Current published methods of temporary proprioception knockdown of the upper limb, such as ischemic nerve blocks and cryotherapy, are invasive, impractical, or uncomfortable for the participant. Here, vibration over the ulnar groove was used to reduce upper limb proprioception. High frequency vibration may reduce proprioceptive acuity by inhibiting pacinian corpuscle-induced input. The effect of vibration used in this protocol was confirmed using two quantitative measures. This method was simple to administer, comfortable for participants, and practical.

The goal of this protocol is to demonstrate a practical method to temporarily interfere with proprioception in the upper limb of healthy humans.

Un metodo semplice e Non invasivo per atterramento temporaneo di propriocezione degli arti superiori

Proprioception may be the least well measured of all contributors to the neural control of movement. New precise, reliable measures of proprioception are ...

Applying Incongruent Visual-Tactile Stimuli during Object Transfer with Vibro-Tactile Feedback

The application of incongruent sensory signals that involves disrupted tactile feedback is rarely explored, specifically with the presence of vibrotactile feedback (VTF). This protocol aims to test the effect of VTF on the response to incongruent visual-tactile stimuli. The tactile feedback is acquired by grasping a block and moving it across a partition. The visual feedback is a real-time virtual presentation of the moving block, acquired using a motion capture system. The congruent feedback is the reliable presentation of the movement of the block, so that the subject feels that the block is grasped and see it move along with the path of the hand. The incongruent feedback appears as the movement of the block diverts from the actual movement path, so that it seems to drop from the hand when it is actually still held by the subject, thereby contradicting the tactile feedback. Twenty subjects (age 30.2 &#177; 16.3) repeated 16 block transfers, while their hand was hidden. These were repeated with VTF and without VTF (total of 32 block transfers). Incongruent stimuli were presented randomly twice within the 16 repetitions in each condition (with and without VTF). Each subject was asked to rate the difficulty level of performing the task with and without the VTF. There were no statistically significant differences in the length of the hand paths and durations between transfers recorded with congruent and incongruent visual-tactile signals &#8211; with and without the VTF. The perceived difficulty level of performing the task with the VTF significantly correlated with the normalized path length of the block with VTF (r = 0.675, p = 0.002). This setup is used to quantify the additive or reductive value of VTF during motor function that involves incongruent visual-tactile stimuli. Possible applications are prosthetics design, smart sport-wear, or any other garments that incorporate VTF.

We present a protocol to apply incongruent visual-tactile stimuli during an object transfer task. Specifically, during block transfers, performed while the hand is hidden, a virtual presentation of the block shows random occurrences of false block drops. The protocol also describes adding vibrotactile feedback while performing the motor task.

Applicazione di stimoli visivi e tattili incongruenti durante il trasferimento di oggetti con feedback vibro-tattile

The application of incongruent sensory signals that involves disrupted tactile feedback is rarely explored, specifically with the presence of vibrotactile ...

A Tactile Automated Passive-Finger Stimulator (TAPS)

Although tactile spatial acuity tests are used in both neuroscience research and clinical assessment, few automated devices exist for delivering controlled spatially structured stimuli to the skin. Consequently, investigators often apply tactile stimuli manually. Manual stimulus application is time consuming, requires great care and concentration on the part of the investigator, and leaves many stimulus parameters uncontrolled. We describe here a computer-controlled tactile stimulus system, the Tactile Automated Passive-finger Stimulator (TAPS), that applies spatially structured stimuli to the skin, controlling for onset velocity, contact force, and contact duration. TAPS is a versatile, programmable system, capable of efficiently conducting a variety of psychophysical procedures. We describe the components of TAPS, and show how TAPS is used to administer a two-interval forced-choice tactile grating orientation test.
Corresponding Author: Daniel Goldreich

A Tactile Automated Passive-Finger Stimulator TAPS

We describe a computer-controlled device for investigating the sense of touch: the Tactile Automated Passive-finger Stimulator (TAPS). We describe the components of TAPS, and show how TAPS is used to administer a two-interval forced-choice tactile grating orientation test.

Un tattile automatica Passive-Finger stimolatore (TAPS)

Although tactile spatial acuity tests are used in both neuroscience research and clinical assessment, few automated devices exist for delivering ...

Biologia

Assessment of Midline Lingual Point-Pressure Somatosensation Using Von Frey Hair Monofilaments

Detection and discrimination threshold estimates for oral point pressure are assessed using Von Frey Hair monofilaments. Consistent with previously published protocols, threshold estimates are determined using a two-interval forced choice (2-IFC) paradigm with a three down/one up approach. Detection threshold estimates determine the mean force in which a participant can identify the presence of pressure. During the detection threshold procedure, the participant is instructed to choose which of two sequentially presented observation intervals contained the tactile test stimulus. If the participant performs three correct detections in a row (i.e., 3 &#39;hits&#39;), the researcher decreases the stimulus to the next lower target force level. With one incorrect detection (a &#39;miss&#39;), the researcher increases the force delivered to the next higher level. This threshold estimation approach is known as a 3-down/1-up adaptive staircase. Reponses are recorded on a paper ballot, and a participant&#39;s estimated threshold is defined as the geometric mean of five reversals. During the discrimination threshold procedure, the participant is asked to make a choice between two serially presented stimuli as to which is the &#34;harder&#34; or &#34;stronger&#34; pressure. The same scoring of &#39;hits&#39;, &#39;misses&#39;, and stopping points are used. Detection and discrimination testing for oral point pressure at tongue midline takes approximately 20 min to complete. Using these commercially-available clinical tools, individual touch sensation profiles for the midline tongue can be achieved in a relatively time and cost effective means.

This work describes a standard method to assess tactile sensation at the midline of the tongue tip. Using Von Frey Hair (VFH) monofilaments, this protocol provides estimates of detection and discrimination threshold estimates for oral point pressure (OPP).

Valutazione della somatoscia della pressione dei punti linguali della linea mediana utilizzando i monofili von Frey

Detection and discrimination threshold estimates for oral point pressure are assessed using Von Frey Hair monofilaments. Consistent with previously ...

Tactile Semiautomatic Passive-Finger Angle Stimulator (TSPAS)

Passive tactile perception is the ability to passively and statically perceive stimulus information coming from the skin; for example, the ability to sense spatial information is the strongest in the skin on the hands. This ability is termed tactile spatial acuity, and is measured by the tactile threshold or discrimination threshold. At present, the two-point threshold is extensively used as a measure of tactile spatial acuity, although many studies have indicated that critical deficits exist in two-point discrimination. Therefore, a computer-controlled tactile stimulus system was developed, the tactile semiautomated passive-finger angle stimulator (TSPAS), using the tactile angle discrimination threshold as a new measure for tactile spatial acuity. The TSPAS is a simple, easily operated system that applies raised angle stimuli to a subject&#39;s passive fingerpad, while controlling movement speed, distance, and contact duration. The components of the TSPAS are described in detail as well as the procedure to calculate the tactile angle discrimination threshold.

Tactile Semiautomatic Passive-Finger Angle Stimulator TSPAS

Presented is the tactile semiautomated passive-finger angle stimulator TSPAS, a new way to assess tactile spatial acuity and tactile angle discrimination using a computer-controlled tactile stimulus system that applies raised angle stimuli to a subject&#39;s passive fingerpad, while controlling for movement speed, distance, and contact duration.

Stimolatore ad angolo passivo-dito semiautomatico tattile (TSPAS)

Passive tactile perception is the ability to passively and statically perceive stimulus information coming from the skin; for example, the ability to ...

Tactile Vibrating Toolkit and Driving Simulation Platform for Driving-Related Research

Collision warning system plays a key role in the prevention of driving distractions and drowsy driving. Previous studies have proven the advantages of tactile warnings in reducing driver&#8217;s brake response time. At the same time, tactile warnings have been proved effective in take-over request (TOR) for partially autonomous vehicles.
How the performance of tactile warnings can be optimized is an ongoing hot research topic in this field. Thus, the presented low-cost driving simulation software and methods are introduced to attract more researchers to take part in the investigation. The presented protocol has been divided into five sections: 1) participants, 2) driving simulation software configuration, 3) driving simulator preparation, 4) vibrating toolkit configuration and preparation, and 5) conducting the experiment.
In the exemplar study, participants wore the tactile vibrating toolkit and performed an established car-following task using the customized driving simulation software. The front vehicle braked intermittently, and vibrating warnings were delivered whenever the front vehicle was braking. Participants were instructed to respond as quickly as possible to the sudden brakes of the front vehicle. Driving dynamics, such as the brake response time and brake response rate, were recorded by the simulation software for data analysis.
The presented protocol offers insight into the exploration of the effectiveness of tactile warnings on different body locations. In addition to the car-following task that is demonstrated in the exemplar experiment, this protocol also provides options&#160;to apply other paradigms to the driving simulation studies by making simple software configuration without any code development. However, it is important to note that due to its affordable price, the driving simulation software and hardware introduced here may not be able to fully compete with other high-fidelity commercial driving simulators. Nevertheless, this protocol can act as an affordable and user-friendly alternative to the general high-fidelity commercial driving simulators.

This protocol describes a driving simulation platform and a tactile vibrating toolkit for the investigation of driving-related research. An exemplar experiment exploring the effectiveness of tactile warnings is also presented.&#160;

Toolkit vibrante tattile e piattaforma di simulazione di guida per la ricerca relativa alla guida

Collision warning system plays a key role in the prevention of driving distractions and drowsy driving. Previous studies have proven the advantages of ...

Measuring Changes in Tactile Sensitivity in the Hind Paw of Mice Using an Electronic von Frey Apparatus

Measuring inflammation-induced changes in thresholds of hind paw withdrawal from mechanical pressure is a useful technique to assess changes in pain perception in rodents. Withdrawal thresholds can be measured first at baseline and then following drug, venom, injury, allergen,&#160;or otherwise evoked inflammation by applying an accurate force on very specific areas of the skin. An electronic von Frey apparatus allows precise assessment of mouse hind paw withdrawal thresholds that are not limited by the available filament sizes in contrast to classical von Frey measurements. The ease and rapidity of measurements allow for incorporation of assessment of tactile sensitivity outcomes in diverse models of rapid-onset inflammatory and neuropathic pain as multiple measurements can be taken within a short time period. Experimental measurements for individual rodent subjects can be internally controlled against individual baseline responses and exclusion criteria easily established to standardize baseline responses within and across experimental groups. Thus, measurements using an electronic von Frey apparatus represent a useful modification of the well-established classical von Frey filament-based assays for rodent mechanical allodynia that may also be applied to other nonhuman mammalian models.

Electronic von Frey measurements are an effective and improved alternative to classical von Frey filaments, as they allow rapid and precise measurement of changes in rodent mechanical withdrawal thresholds to continuously applied pressure stimuli before and after an inflammatory event.

Measuring inflammation-induced changes in thresholds of hind paw withdrawal from mechanical pressure is a useful technique to assess changes in pain ...

Neuroscienze

A Method for Evaluating Timeliness and Accuracy of Volitional Motor Responses to Vibrotactile Stimuli

Artificial sensory feedback (ASF) systems can be used to compensate for lost proprioception in individuals with lower-limb impairments. Effective design of these ASF systems requires an in-depth understanding of how the parameters of specific feedback mechanism affect user perception and reaction to stimuli. This article presents a method for applying vibrotactile stimuli to human participants and measuring their response. Rotating mass vibratory motors are placed at pre-defined locations on the participant's thigh, and controlled through custom hardware and software. The speed and accuracy of participants' volitional responses to vibrotactile stimuli are measured for researcher-specified combinations of motor placement and vibration frequency. While the protocol described here uses push-buttons to collect a simple binary response to the vibrotactile stimuli, the technique can be extended to other response mechanisms using inertial measurement units or pressure sensors to measure joint angle and weight bearing ratios, respectively. Similarly, the application of vibrotactile stimuli can be explored for body segments other than the thigh.

This article describes a technique for applying vibrotactile stimuli to the thigh of a human participant, and measuring the accuracy and reaction time of the participant&#39;s volitional response for various combinations of stimulation location and frequency.

Un metodo per la valutazione tempestività e l&#39;accuratezza delle risposte volitivo motore a vibrotattili stimoli

Artificial sensory feedback (ASF) systems can be used to compensate for lost proprioception in individuals with lower-limb impairments.  Effective design ...