Effects of external body vibrations on cognitive performance through brain-cardio-respiratory dynamics

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Physiology
• Computational Modeling

Background:

• External body vibrations (EBV) are known to affect human physiological and cognitive functions.
• Understanding the mechanisms linking physical stimuli to brain and cardiovascular responses is crucial for exploring cognitive performance modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a neurophysiological model integrating cortical and cardiovascular systems to investigate the impact of EBV on cognitive and physiological states.
• To explore the frequency-dependent effects of EBV on perceptual alternation, brain variability, and heart rate variability.

Main Methods:

• A reservoir computing model was used to simulate cortical dynamics and cognitive effects, specifically focusing on binocular rivalry.
• The model integrated cortical dynamics with a cardiovascular system model to explore neurophysiological responses to EBV.
• Simulations were validated by replicating observed changes in perceptual alternation during voluntary respiratory control and cycling exercise.

Main Results:

• EBV demonstrated frequency-dependent effects on perceptual alternation, brain variability, and heart rate variability.
• Synchronization between the locus coeruleus and the cardiorespiratory system was identified as a key factor influencing these measures.
• The model successfully replicated human perceptual alternation changes under different physiological conditions.

Conclusions:

• EBV can finely tune brain and cardiovascular dynamics.
• The findings suggest a mechanistic link between external vibrations, neurophysiological responses, and cognitive function.
• EBV may offer a non-invasive method for potentially optimizing cognitive performance through modulation of brain and cardiovascular systems.