Using innovative brain-monitoring technology, a recent study delved into the realm of brain activity during cognitive assessments under the influence of various stimulants, such as music, coffee, and perfume. The findings indicated heightened brain wave activity in the “beta band,” a range linked to optimal cognitive functioning, when participants interacted with music or consumed coffee.
Of particular interest was the notable enhancement in performance attributed to AI-generated music, which has the potential to open novel avenues for investigation.
Music and coffee boost brain power
Everyday indulgences like listening to music and sipping coffee have been demonstrated to influence brain activity in ways that can augment cognitive performance, especially in tasks demanding concentration and memory.
This discovery is a result of the NYU Tandon School of Engineering’s research involving MINDWATCH, an innovative brain-monitoring algorithm. Developed by Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Rose Faghih, over a six-year span, MINDWATCH assesses an individual’s brain activity using data from wearable devices capable of monitoring electrodermal activity (EDA). This activity reflects changes in electrical conductance triggered by emotional stress, which is tied to sweat responses.
In the recent study detailed in Nature Scientific Reports, participants wore wristbands monitoring their skin and headbands tracking brain activity while undertaking cognitive tests. These tests were carried out both while they listened to music, drank coffee, and smelled perfumes tailored to their preferences, as well as without any of these stimulants.
The outcomes of the MINDWATCH algorithm analysis revealed that both music and coffee led to measurable changes in participants’ brain arousal, essentially inducing a physiological “mindset” that could influence their performance in tasks related to working memory.
To be specific, the stimulants prompted an increase in brain wave activity within the “beta band,” a state associated with optimal cognitive performance. While perfume also displayed a modest positive effect, it indicated a need for further investigation.
Music and coffee boost brain power
“The global pandemic has significantly impacted the mental well-being of countless individuals, emphasizing the pressing need for continuous monitoring of the detrimental effects of daily stressors on cognitive function,” Faghih remarked.
“While MINDWATCH is presently in its developmental stage, our ultimate objective is to create technology that empowers individuals to monitor their cognitive arousal in real time. This would enable the detection of instances of acute stress or cognitive disengagement. In such moments, MINDWATCH could gently guide individuals toward simple and safe interventions—such as listening to music—helping them attain a more favorable brain state, thereby enhancing performance in work or academic tasks.”
While AI-generated music exhibited the most significant improvements across all three types, further research is necessary to validate these findings. Coffee consumption led to noticeable albeit less pronounced performance enhancements compared to music, while perfume yielded the most modest gains.
References: Fekri Azgomi, H., F. Branco, L.R., Amin, M.R. et al. Regulation of brain cognitive states through auditory, gustatory, and olfactory stimulation with wearable monitoring. Sci Rep 13, 12399 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-37829-z
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