Phase confusion: How inconsistent cardiac labeling obscures interoception research

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Physiology

Background:

• Interoception research increasingly examines cardiac phase influence on sensory processing.
• Inconsistent definitions of cardiac systole and diastole across studies create variability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review how cardiac phases modulate stimulus perception.
• To highlight methodological inconsistencies in defining cardiac phases.
• To introduce the HEARTS framework for standardizing cardiac interoception research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on cardiac phase modulation of perception.
• Analysis of methodological variations in defining cardiac phases (biomedical vs. estimated latency).
• Development of the HEARTS framework with six standardization recommendations.

Main Results:

• Significant variability exists in defining cardiac phases, impacting study interpretation.
• Inconsistencies stem from differing definitions and additional factors like equipment and interoceptive measures.
• The HEARTS framework provides actionable guidelines for methodological standardization.

Conclusions:

• Standardizing cardiac phase definitions is crucial for improving replicability and interpretation in interoception research.
• The HEARTS framework offers a path toward greater consistency and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Implementing standardized methodologies will enhance understanding of cardiac interoceptive signals' role in perception and cognition.