Memory Optimization through Vagally Enhanced Signaling (MOVES)

There are many situations in DOD missions when soldiers could operate much more effectively if they could successfully recall previously presented information that is vital for mission execution. However, the quantity of information supplied to today’s Warfighter is constantly increasing. This is due to greater reliance on network-centric operations and the expanding range of missions Warfighters must address, including conventional and asymmetric warfare and stability and support operations. Neurocognitive research indicates that information is acquired most effectively when the brain is in certain synchronous states. Specifically, receiving new information when brainwaves are in a Gamma state seems to improve working memory encoding, while a Theta brainwave state seems to enhance long-term storage of new information. What is needed to address the information challenge, then, is a simple device exploiting the advantages of these brainwave states to improve Warfighter memory. Infoscitex proposes to develop a device, Memory Optimization through Vagally Enhanced Signaling or MOVES, to meet this objective. This device will induce productive brainwave states in Warfighters and present important new information to those users when these states are attained. This will result in better memory for key information leading to much more effective mission performance.