Effects of conventional and high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on driving abilities: A tDCS-driving simulator study

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2023.102111
• Publication Date: 2023-08-16T06:00:41Z
• Authors: Alessio Facchin; Stefania La Rocca; Laura Vacchi; Roberta Daini; Massimiliano Gobbo; Simone Fontana; Carlotta Lega
• Keywords: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation; Driving simulator; Human multitasking; Driving simulation

Due to the multitasking nature of driving, drivers are physiologically distracted by both relevant and irrelevant environmental stimuli. The ability select stimuli suppress distractors during driving two factors for safety. There is a lot evidence suggesting that frontal eye field (FEF) plays an important role in target selection suppression, as well attentional mechanisms crucial safety performance. Taking these points into account, this study was designed examine effects different transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) montages over right FEF determine whether could improve simulated environment. Twenty-seven adult participants took part study. A specific simulator task developed which had respond brake light events preceding car front them while driving. second distracting consisted road signs countries cities appeared together with braking lights or alone. Participants were required one categories their hand. These tasks be performed alone combined condition. Each participant completed three sessions comparing tDCS montages, i.e. conventional, focal 4*1 ring high-definition (HD-tDCS) sham stimulations FEF. Results indicated overall better performance under HD-tDCS In particular, improved RTs task. Taken results interesting from theoretical methodological point view, demonstrating effect anodal on response ecological