AUTHOR=Shin Joon-Ho , Jeong Eunju 

TITLE=Virtual reality-based music attention training for acquired brain injury: A protocol for randomized cross-over trial

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Neurology

VOLUME=Volume 14 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2023.1192181

DOI=10.3389/fneur.2023.1192181

ISSN=1664-2295

ABSTRACT=Attention training is considered the primary step in the rehabilitation for patients with acquired brain injury (ABI). Active music performance has been reported to aid neural and functional recovery; however, its efficacy for patients with ABI remains uncertain due to methodological concerns. The purpose of the study is to develop a virtual reality-based music attention training (VR-MAT) that utilizes a visually guided, bilateral drumming in an immersive environment, targeting to train attention and executive functions. We also aims to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of the VR-MAT with a small sample size of participants (3-60 months after ABI, N= 20 approximately).Participants will be randomly assigned to either a waitlist control or music group, in which VR-MAT will take place five times weekly over four weeks (randomized crossover design). The evaluation of VR-MAT performance will include accuracy and response time in music responses. Neurocognitive outcome measures will be administered to quantify pre-post changes in attention, working memory, and executive functions. Additionally, functional near-infrared spectroscopy will be employed to explore the relationships between musical behavior, neurocognitive function, and neurophysiological responses.