Name: measurement of vibration detection threshold and tactile spatial acuity in human subjects
Uploaded: 2016-09-01T13:00:00.000+00:00
Duration: 7 min 32 s
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Measurement of Vibration Detection Threshold and Tactile Spatial Acuity in Human Subjects at JoVE.com

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.

試験プロトコルはシャリテ-Universitätsmedizin倫理委員会によって承認されました。 1.振動検出しきい値（VDT） <ol><li>デバイスとテストプロトコルアセンブリ - 事前テスト<ol><li> 図1（a）に係る装置の構成部品を組み立てます。テーブルの上に滑らかな表面のボード（40センチメートル×80センチ）を配置します。ボード上の黄銅棒を置きます。 </li><li>コントローラ部に圧電アクチュエータ（振動刺激）を接続します。 </li><li>応答ボックスとモニタ装置は、データ収集システム（補足コードファイルを参照してください）​​に接続します。 </li><li>コンピュータ（またはラップトップ）にデータ収集システムを接続し、アクチュエータ制御ユニットをピエゾします。 </li><li> （プローブの詳細はマテリアルを参照）の圧電アクチュエータの可動部にカスタムメイドの刺激プローブをねじ込みます。 </li><li>バランスのとれた黄銅棒上のプローブを用いて圧電アクチュエータをマウントします。 </li></ol></li><li>試験プロトコル<ol><li>スクリプトの2区間強制選択の形質転換ルールを上に実装し、方法ダウン試験プロトコル。スクリプトの概要のための補足コードファイルを参照してください。 </li><li>特性を正弦波として振動刺激の波形を構築し、刺激持続時間を指定し、立ち上がりおよび立ち下がり。 <ol><li>オープンソフトウェア（ 例えば 、LabChart）。セットアップ&gt;刺激を選択します。 </li><li>カスタム波形を選択して、刺激のオプションを設定します。各区間（STIM1及びSTIM2）に関連する2刺激波形を作成します。 注：1.8秒の正弦波に続いて4秒の遅延、および1.8秒（無刺激）の遅延：波形STIM1は、3つの部分から構成されています。波形stimの2は3つの部分から構成されている：4秒の遅延は、1.8秒（無刺激）の遅延に続いて、1.8秒の正弦波で。 </li><li>正弦波形の場合は、周波数と振幅のための新しい変数パラメータを作成。 MODIFyの立ち上がりと立ち下がりに以下の機能を入力することにより、正弦波関数。 （1-E -bt）∙振幅∙正弦（周波数）、B = 9.1：波形を上昇 （E -bt）∙振幅∙正弦（周波数）、B = 9.1：波形秋</li><li>ラボチャートのデータパネルで、振動刺激の35振幅強度（またはレベル）に関連する35の電圧出力のセットを作成します。 表1を参照してください。 </li></ol></li><li> （補足コードファイルのセクションを参照）試験手順のためのマクロスクリプトでテストした振動周波数に対する振動刺激の開始/デフォルトの振幅を設定します。 </li></ol></li><li>調製と被験者のトレーニング - テストセッション<ol><li>試験手順について被験者に通知し、それらは、書面による同意書に署名しています。匿名性を確保し、データ保護の要件を満たすために、各参加者に番号を割り当てます。 </li><li>快適に被験者を着座20〜30℃の間の温度で、静かな部屋インチ被験者が試験中に期待することを知っているように、シンプルかつ明確な方法でテストについてのそれらに指示します。 </li><li>ボード上の被験者の腕を置きます。パッドの動きを最小限に抑えるために、医療生地と小指。ちょうど爪床の下にテストした手の小指にプローブを配置するために、ボード上の黄銅棒を置きます。プローブと皮膚との間の適切な接触を確保し、水位を使用して水平位置にプローブの位置を調整します。円形フラットプローブの縁で皮膚の接触を避けます。 注：これは、プローブの平らな面が皮膚表面に30グラム（0.3 N）の周りに適用されることを保証します。シャープエッジが低下検出しきい値につながることができます。黄銅棒の重い質量は、デバイスに周囲から邪魔振動の伝達を防止し、適用される正弦波の損失を最小限に抑えることができます。 </li><li>試験の前に、参加者を得ますセットアップに慣れsです。被験者は実験手順が理解されていることを確認するために、振動を感知するまで試験周波数に依存して、本両方の簡単（レベル23）とハード（レベル7）は、振幅を変化させることにより、振動刺激を知覚します。 </li><li>必要に応じて試験プロトコルの開始時に被験者が容易に刺激を検出できるように、（1.2.3を参照）選択された周波数で開始します（デフォルト）の振幅をリセットします。 </li><li>試験中に対象と審査官の間の相互作用を最小限に抑えます。 </li><li>アップダウン適応法22で2-の代替強制選択手順を使用するスクリプトを実行してテストを開始します。 注：1.3.7-1.3.12中のアクションは、プログラムスクリプトによって自動化されています。 </li><li>各試験では、無作為に視覚的にモニター（ 図1B）の画面上の「1」と「2」として被験者に示されている2つの間隔の間に振動刺激を管理します。被験体は、第1又は第2のシーケンシャルな間隔は、2つのボタン「1」または応答ボックスに「2」のいずれかを押すことにより、振動刺激が含まれている場合を示しています。刺激が提示されたとき、彼または彼女がわからない場合には、被験者が推測してみましょう。 注：強制選択技術は、被験者が振動を知覚されない場合であっても応答することが必要です。 </li><li> 9単一試行の最大6で構成されて裁判シリーズでは、少なくとも6回連続して1つの振幅レベルで同じ振動刺激を繰り返します。応答がすべて正しい場合は、その後の裁判シリーズの刺激強度レベル（ダウンルール）を低減。 </li><li>被験者が裁判シリーズにエラーをした場合、適応方法（スクリプト内の論理演算子）の決定ルールに基づいて、同じ刺激​​強度に対象をより多くの試練を付与します。 2未満で正しく刺激が正しく、少なくとも5試験で識別された場合に刺激強度を低減し、トライアル。 </li><li>被験者が裁判シリーズの2間違った回答をした場合、刺激レベルを上げ、または、複数の不正な応答と5未満の正解。 </li><li>反転点と刺激強度の方向の変化を文書化します。反転ポイント数に応じて刺激強度を変更：4の強度レベルによって、第三の反転点の前に。 3 番目の反転点で2強度レベルによって、 1レベルによって、他（詳細は補足コードファイルと図4Bを参照してください）。 </li><li>被験者は8逆転の合計を完了したときにテストを終了します。 </li><li>最後の6逆転の刺激振幅値の中央値を取ることによって、VDTを計算します。 </li></ol></li></ol> 2.触覚空間視力テスト<ol><li>触覚視力キューブ（TAC）を使用して、2-の代替強制選択格子方位テストと触覚視力を決定します。 TACは、それぞれが含有する6面で構成されていますその幅が0.75ミリメートル、1.25ミリメートル、1.75ミリメートル、3.0ミリメートル、4.5ミリメートル、および6.0ミリメートルである回折格子（バーと溝）。 </li><li> 20〜30°Cとタスクの指示の間の温度で、静かな部屋でシート科目。 </li><li>実験中、シールド眼鏡を使用して、被験者を目隠し。掌面を上に向けてテーブルの上に利き手を置きます。 </li><li>各試行では、2格子の向きの一方に指パッドにTACを適用：垂直（平行な方向）または水平方向（横方向）の指の長軸に整列されます。ランダムに各試行のための格子の向きの順序を選択します。 </li><li>キューブは、指（233グラム）に、その全体の重量を発揮するように人差し指の指腹に2秒間TACの格子を適用します。指腹にTACを押すことは避けてください。 </li><li>キューブは、その指から削除される前に整列の向きを決定するために被験者を確認して下さい。 </li><li>参加者のf iの動きを避けますそれは向きに手がかりを提供するかもしれないので、nger。実験者は、指が移動したことを検知した場合に裁判を破棄します。 注：小さな指の動きが手順で実験者によって検出されない可能性があることに注意してください。 </li><li>階段のアルゴリズムで2ダウンと1アップ適応方式を採用。 </li><li>最大の格子、6.0ミリメートルで始まります。 </li><li>オリエンテーション（正しい応答）の2正しい識別した後、回折格子の幅を減少させます。 </li><li>次の、小さい幅をテストし、被験者が誤った応答を行い、反転点として格子幅を文書化するまで、ステッピングルールを続行します。 </li><li>幅の2つの向きが正しく再び決定されるまで、再び格子幅を段階的に増やします。 </li><li> 13逆転の完了後にテストを終了します。 </li><li>最後の10逆転の格子幅の中央値をとることによって、触覚格子の向きのしきい値を計算します。 </li></ol>

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K., Nguyen, R. H., Francisco, E. M., Zhang, Z., Dennis, R. G., Tommerdahl, 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+novel+device+for+the+study+of+somatosensory+information+processing.">A novel device for the study of somatosensory information processing.</a> J Neurosci Methods. 204 (2), 215-220 (2012).</li><li>G&#252;&#231;l&#252;, B., Oztek, C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Tactile+sensitivity+of+children:+effects+of+frequency,+masking,+and+the+non-Pacinian+I+psychophysical+channel.">Tactile sensitivity of children: effects of frequency, masking, and the non-Pacinian I psychophysical channel.</a> J Exp Child Psychol. 98 (2), 113-130 (2007).</li><li>Cohen, J. C., Makous, J. C., Bolanowski, S. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Under+which+conditions+do+the+skin+and+probe+decouple+during+sinusoidal+vibrations?.">Under which conditions do the skin and probe decouple during sinusoidal vibrations?.</a> Exp Brain Res. 129 (2), 211-217 (1999).</li><li>Makous, J. C., Gescheider, G. A., Bolanowski, S. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+effects+of+static+indentation+on+vibrotactile+threshold.">The effects of static indentation on vibrotactile threshold.</a> J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 99 (5), 3149-3153 (1996).</li><li>Goldreich, D., Kanics, I. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Tactile+Acuity+is+Enhanced+in+Blindness.">Tactile Acuity is Enhanced in Blindness.</a> J. Neurosci. 23 (8), 3439-3445 (2003).</li><li>Peters, R. M., Goldreich, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Tactile+Spatial+Acuity+in+Childhood:+Effects+of+Age+and+Fingertip+Size.">Tactile Spatial Acuity in Childhood: Effects of Age and Fingertip Size.</a> PLoS One. 8 (12), (2013).</li><li>Tong, J., Mao, O., Goldreich, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Two-point+orientation+discrimination+versus+the+traditional+two-point+test+for+tactile+spatial+acuity+assessment.">Two-point orientation discrimination versus the traditional two-point test for tactile spatial acuity assessment.</a> Front Hum Neurosci. 7, 579 (2013).</li><li>Goldreich, D., Wong, M., Peters, R. M., Kanics, I. 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.

VDTを評価するために使用される技術は、装置の仕様、ハードウェア、及び試験プロトコルに関して異なります。国際標準化機構は、振動計のさまざまなコンポーネントのための勧告（ISO 13091から1および2 26,27）を含む振動触覚閾値を分析し、解釈するための方法と手順を指定する記載の試験システムは、試験周波数範囲に関連するISO勧告に遵守してい（4-125 Hz）で、メソッド、プロー...

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.

圧電アクチュエータは、被験体に振動刺激を提供します。振動刺激は、1.8秒の全持続時間を有し、第一または第二の間隔（ 図2A）の間の試験中に一度だけ提示されています。立ち上がり開始時に立ち下がり時間と刺激のオフセットは、それぞれ（1-E -bt）∙振幅∙正弦（周波数）、および（e -bt）∙振幅∙正弦（周波数）、ここで、関数に?...

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

ここでは、プロトコルは、ヒトにおける心理物理学的方法を用いて、振動検出閾値と触覚視力を決定するために提示します。

ヒト対象における振動検出しきい値と触覚空間視力の測定

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

Universidad San Sebastian

Research

JoVE Journal

Behavior

12.6K ビュー.  Charite Universitätsmedzin, Campus Virchow Klinikum und Campus Charite Mitte. ここでは、プロトコルは、ヒトにおける心理物理学的方法を用いて、振動検出閾値と触覚視力を決定するために提示します。 

ビデオ: 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.

ラット脊髄損傷後の急性および慢性の触覚官能検査

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

医学

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.

前腕の間のテスト触覚マスキング

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

行動学

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.

単純な非侵襲的上肢感覚の一時的なノックダウン法

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.

振動触覚フィードバックを用いた物体移動時の不適合視覚触覚刺激の適用

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.

触覚自動パッシブフィンガースティミュレーター（TAPS）

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

生物学

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).

フォン・フレイヘアモノフィラメントを用いた正中リンガルポイント血圧間感覚の評価

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.

触覚半自動受動指角刺激装置(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;

走行関連研究のための触覚振動ツールキットとドライビングシミュレーションプラットフォーム

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 ...

神経科学

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.

振動触覚刺激に随意運動反応の適時性と精度の評価方法

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