The effect of interstimulus interval on somatosensory point localization.
Somatosensory point localization is a clinical test evaluating spatial accuracy of the somatosensory system. Possible effects of the interstimulus interval (ISI) on point localization threshold have not been previously examined. In the present set of experiments the effect of time delay on somatosensory point localization was studied using ISIs of 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 s, and applying a newly developed computer-controlled application method of a Semmes-Weinstein monofilament. It was found that the point localization threshold was not significantly affected by the ISI length. However, the response time was shorter and response accuracy better at the shorter (1 and 3 s) than at the longer (5, 7, and 9 s) ISIs, suggesting a change in the mechanism underlying point localization decision criteria in ISIs longer than 3 s.
Ylioja
Shelley
S
Neuroscience Unit, Institute of Biomedicine/Physiology, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Pertovaara
Antti
A
Koivisto
Juha
J
Korvenoja
Antti
A
Artchakov
Denis
D
Carlson
Synnöve
S
D000328:Adult; D004558:Electric Stimulation / Q000379:methods*; D005073:Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory; D005260:Female; D006225:Hand / Q000294:innervation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012684:Sensory Thresholds / Q000502:physiology*; D012867:Skin / Q000294:innervation; D014110:Touch / Q000502:physiology*