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Online Test Measures Speed of your Brain

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the new-kind-of-quick-draw dept.

KingSkippus writes "According to CNet, a company named Posit Science has produced an online test using Flash that uses sounds to measure the speed of your brain down to the millisecond. According to the company, the test 'measures auditory processing (listening) speed—one of many measures of brain function...The faster we can take in information accurately, the better we can keep up with, respond to and remember what we hear.'"

37 of 256 comments (clear)

  1. 64-bit owners too smart by XanC · · Score: 2, Funny
    We who use 64-bit browsers already know we're smart! We don't need (and can't use) this test.

    I still can't decide if the absence of 64-bit Flash is a blessing or a curse...

    1. Re:64-bit owners too smart by kimvette · · Score: 2, Insightful

      Oh, really? Installing gplflash allows you to run Shockwave applets?

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  2. Problems by BWJones · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Problem: The linked test only works with Windows...... So, never mind.

    Seriously though, this title is in a way, kinda bogus science in that it does not measure brain speed per se, but is more a measure of efficiency (a subtle but important difference). Basic central auditory response curves should be identical for most folks unless there is a processing delay like a developmental abnormality in one of the auditory nuclei or unless there is some pathology like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) which could bias the test and not be indicative of cognitive performance. Also, this test could be biased by damage to the cochlear hair cells that reduce ones frequency perception, but this apparent deficiency would have no real bearing on "brain speed" either.

    If they are using this test to determine cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer's Disease, they should have some disclaimers present that explicitly point out that even mild hearing loss could compromise the results of this study among other causes.

    And yes..... IAANS (I Am A NeuroScientist).

    And it also appears that the author of the software is trying to sell it to "help people reduce the effects of aging", to which I say pffffft! Just stay physically and mentally active. Go running/walking/swimming/riding a bike and read books or hell, for your brain and auditory processing, even play video games (just make sure you get the physical exercise too and please continue to read books/newspapers). All of that is lots cheaper than forking out $500 for this software and likely more effective?

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    1. Re:Problems by BWJones · · Score: 4, Informative

      we're all familiar with plasticity, eg blind people who acquire acute hearing as a way of coping with their loss by "exercising" the parts of the brain that deal with hearing.

      It should also be known that there is negative plasticity as well, such as the type that can be found in epilepsy, retinal degeneration and other neurodegenerative diseases.

      There could be some legitimacy behind this program under these principals, couldn't there? If you constantly tax those parts of the brain through these tests, as those who are blind do every day, couldn't you reap the same benefits? Here's a snip of some of the benefits I'm talking about, taken from a clinical study on the subject.

      You are absolutely correct, and there is some legitimacy to this. My objection was the lack of disclosure (and being Windows only) as well as pointing out that there are healthier and cheaper ways to accomplish the same results. i.e. One does not have to buy into dumbed down science and fork over $500 to get the same results.

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    2. Re:Problems by BWJones · · Score: 2, Informative

      I may be uniquely qualified to comment on this, as I spent the last decade of my life, until last October, working closely with Dr. Merzenich on issues of how the brain is altered by reinforced behaviors, and know the details of the testing that has, so far, gone into their program to address age-related cognitive decline.

      I love it. We need more scientists on Slashdot. Seriously.

      First, let's clear up any thought this would address Alzheimer's. It has nothing to do with neurofibrillary tangles and plaques that define Alzheimers.

      No, not the cellular/molecular pathology per se, but the cognitive decline in Alzheimer's is of interest, yes? From the website: "Early-Stage Alzheimer's Disease: We are conducting a pilot study with UCSF in early-stage Alzheimer's disease. This study is currently enrolling participants through the UCSF Memory and Aging Center."

      What has been done so far, is to demonstrate that practicing certain types of computer guided behaviors for about an hour a day, every day, can have a fairly enormous impact on age-related cognitive decline. Attention and vigilance in rewarded behaviors, nothing more.

      Absolutely. I am not refuting this, rather I am saying that it could be surmised that an equivalent degree of mental exercise doing a number of real world tasks could have the same effect.

      And you might wonder where this guy, Merzenich, gets off thinking this...well, here are some resume highlights.

      I was not questioning the credentials (or yours for that matter). I was simply pointing out that one does not necessarily need a $500 piece of software to limit age related cognitive decline.

      But for certain in the initial short-term, people who have substantially advanced cognitive decline relative to their peers can lose a decade or more of their age-related loss in a several week long training period. And that is worth getting excited about.

      I have no doubt. The brain, just like any biological system, gets "better" with use/reinforcement.

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    3. Re:Problems by BWJones · · Score: 3, Informative

      It is quite easy to pose the pundit.

      True. It is harder however to make informed decisions without training/knowledge and that is what we rely upon our scientists to do for us, inform us as to their opinion based upon their knowledge and their training. I was simply functioning in that role for this community.

      Controlled scientific studies show over a decacde-equivalent improvement in age-related decline.

      You are absolutely correct. This has been the case in study after study for what...... 40 years or more?

      What basis do you have to claim that these effects may be obtained more simply? What have you done, or what are you referring to, that has been studied in a carefully controlled manner?

      As I said just above, these studies have been done for years and the literature is very, very rich. You and the author of this software are not incorrect here.

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    4. Re:Problems by blakestah · · Score: 2, Informative

      I am completely financially disengaged, I don't work for them, don't work for Merzenich anymore, and have no conflict of interest with their work. I've just been around it a lot...

    5. Re:Problems by Oxen · · Score: 2, Insightful

      I have no doubt. The brain, just like any biological system, gets "better" with use/reinforcement.

      Funny, my liver seems to get worse every weekend.

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    6. Re:Problems by hmahncke · · Score: 5, Informative
      Hi,

      I am the Vice President for Research and Outcomes at Posit Science, which means that among other things, I worked with the team that designed the on-line test and collected the relevant normative data. Like BWJones, IAANS - I did my Ph.D. with Mike Merzenich, the co-founder of the company, on temporal processing in cortical sensory systems (and worked with Blakestah when he was a postdoc there - althought a friend of mine, he's irascible enough that I guarantee he's not an astroturfer :-). I'd like to answer a few of BWJones thoughts:

      1) brain speed and brain efficiency: BWJones is correct, there's a difference between brain speed and brain efficiency. In the interests of making an interesting on-line test, we called this brain speed because the threshold output is a reasonable measure of the minimum amount of time the brain requires to correctly identify and sequence two similar sounds. The task is relevant to the fundamental accuracy of the brain's ability to process auditory information and speech.

      2) aging and brain speed: BWJones suggests that there should be no differences in these time order judgment (TOJ) thresholds across generally healthy populations, but only in pathological conditions like MS. However, it is the case that many elements of basic brain function, particularly including TOJ thresholds, change significantly over the the normal non-pathological course of aging. We've collected quite a lot of data on this topic over the past year, which is consistent with a large literature on changes in temporal processing (e.g., backward masking, temporal integration) that occur with normal aging.

      3) ordinary physical and mental activity: it's absolutely the case that staying physically and mentally active is helpful. However, on the basis of our research and that of many others, we think that larger improvements are possible using appropriate tasks and stimuli that are specifically designed to renormalize the accuracy and speed with which the brain processes information using the principles of brain plasticity.

      4) negative plasticity: BWJones mentioned negative plasticity. I agree completely - we have suggested (coming out this year in Progress in Brain Research) that normal age-related cognitive decline is contributed to by negative plastic processes in the CNS, and that appropriate designed training programs to reverse that negative plasticity are likely to improve perception, cognition, memory, and action.

      It's nice to see at least a small group of neuroscientists here on slashdot...

      Thanks,

      Henry

    7. Re:Problems by BWJones · · Score: 2, Interesting

      I am the Vice President for Research and Outcomes at Posit Science, which means that among other things, I worked with the team that designed the on-line test and collected the relevant normative data.

      Now, this is what on occasion makes Slashdot great and is unfortunately all to rare. To have people answer questions who are the subjects or are involved in articles posted on Slashdot respond to and address issues and concerns raised in this forum is a wonderful thing. Thank you Henry.

      In the interests of making an interesting on-line test, we called this brain speed because the threshold output is a reasonable measure of the minimum amount of time the brain requires to correctly identify and sequence two similar sounds. The task is relevant to the fundamental accuracy of the brain's ability to process auditory information and speech.

      I'll accept that. However, I would like to see disclaimers that address the possibility that "abnormally slow" results may not represent cognitive slowing, but can be the result of other issues, such as cochlear pathologies and hearing loss.

      However, it is the case that many elements of basic brain function, particularly including TOJ thresholds, change significantly over the the normal non-pathological course of aging.

      Auditory evoked potentials were more of what I was addressing when I specifically mentioned nuclei. Cognitive processing is indeed another most relevant abstraction that I agree is what is at issue here.

      We've collected quite a lot of data on this topic over the past year, which is consistent with a large literature on changes in temporal processing (e.g., backward masking, temporal integration) that occur with normal aging.

      Can you direct me to any relevant publications of your data? Disclaimer: I realize that for many commercial endeavors, there may in fact be a delay in publishing scientific data. We are facing the same issue with some of our efforts as well. Unfortunately, criticism tends to fill the space in between commercialization and publication, but hey....we're scientists and it is our job to be critical, right? :-)

      we have suggested (coming out this year in Progress in Brain Research) that normal age-related cognitive decline is contributed to by negative plastic processes in the CNS, and that appropriate designed training programs to reverse that negative plasticity are likely to improve perception, cognition, memory, and action.

      I will look forward to this article.

      It's nice to see at least a small group of neuroscientists here on slashdot...

      You are absolutely right. The nice thing about Slashdot is that there actually *are* lots of scientists around here. Many of us are quiet and we go long periods without commenting or participating here, but we have jobs that have to pay the bills.... Seriously though, there are a number of folks here that have engaged in most stimulating conversations from a variety of disciplines including neuroscience, genetics, astrophysics, bioengineering etc...etc...etc... There is more noise these days, but on occasion, gems appear.

      Thanks for your time is responding here on your effort here on Slashdot Henry,

      Bryan

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  3. What a joke by gooberguy · · Score: 4, Informative

    First, their test only works on windows systems. Secondly, it's just a ploy to get you to buy their stupid software for the low low price of $500.

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  4. But what if I'm smart enuf to see that it's bogus by Harmonious+Botch · · Score: 5, Funny

    What if I'm smart enough to instantly recognize that this test is bogus?

  5. Flash Applications by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Interesting

    I'd be curious if someone were to download and review the function calls in their little "flash helper" application. Once you agree to that installation the program can do anything on your computer that you can. Highly suspicious.

  6. OMG by irimi_00 · · Score: 5, Interesting
    OMG this makes me feel so stupid and incomptetant.

    Go here to find out what a big racist, jingoist, judgemental biggot you are:
    https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/

  7. Brain speed? by gmerideth · · Score: 4, Funny

    The flash component required to view "provides spacfic sounds" so the brain test didn't get past the spelling test before I cancelled it.

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  8. Incompatible... by Cheesewhiz · · Score: 4, Funny
    "We're Sorry. The current version of the Brain Speed Test is only available for Windows based computers. We are working a version that is compatible with Mac's."

    DAMNIT! Why can't I get some friggin' SUPPORT here, people?!? It's the same lame excuse every time -- brain tests, operating systems, popular gaming titles, girlfriends: "Sorry...not compatible."

    You know what, FINE! Keep your silly brain test... I'm going to go spend some quality time with my Mac, playing Breakout...

    -c

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  9. Spacific? by entrylevel · · Score: 3, Funny

    The Shockwave application wanted to install a component so that my computer could "generate spacific sounds"... Anyone trying to sell me a brain tester damn well better be able to spell "specific".

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  10. I got a 27...where's my prize? by stungod · · Score: 3, Interesting

    So my score was 27ms. I guess that ain't a bad speed for a 37-year-old.

    So does this mean that I am smart, or that I'm just dumb faster? Really, I think I would rather take a little longer to be more correct. It seems that there's plenty of historical evidence to show that the smart people aren't always the first to come up with an answer to a problem.

    I guess if I was interested in buying whatevr it is that this guy is selling the I could figure it out. But according to the results of his test, I already have a faster brain than just about everybody. All I need is sharks with freakin' laser beams and I could take over the world!

    Then again, maybe I should drink less coffee...

    1. Re:I got a 27...where's my prize? by Sebastopol · · Score: 4, Informative

      Four of my friends took it and we all got 27!!!

      Something smells rotten in Denmark...

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    2. Re:I got a 27...where's my prize? by adolfojp · · Score: 4, Informative

      I got a 27 also. This raises some suspicions.

    3. Re:I got a 27...where's my prize? by updog · · Score: 2, Informative

      I got 27ms as well!

  11. Well, Microserf Brain Speed Anyways... by Cheesewhiz · · Score: 4, Funny
    Error Message from Site: We're Sorry. The current version of the Brain Speed Test is only available for Windows based computers.

    If anyone was wondering why the average test score seemed a little on the LOW side...

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    1. Re:Well, Microserf Brain Speed Anyways... by user24 · · Score: 4, Informative

      erm that would be funny, except that for this test, a lower score is better....

  12. Looks like a scam by jerald_hams · · Score: 3, Interesting

    The company claims that their exercises improves...(ugh) your speed of thinking. Gods, that's horrible bunk. They don't actually show that repeatedly taking their tests improves anything but your performance on those specific tests. There's no research behind this, just a scam to take advantage of the elderly with baseless promises of preserving your aging brain's cognitive abilities.

  13. Article is wrong... by dcapel · · Score: 2, Informative

    It uses shockwave, not flash. Ergo, it is windows only. :/

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  14. Score by airjrdn · · Score: 2, Informative

    I'm 36, and scored 27ms.

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  15. old ... by Lazy+Jones · · Score: 2, Informative

    a friend of mine wrote this a long time ago, it measures your reflexes too (and doesn't require some stupid windows software)

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  16. Oblig. Homer Quote by arrrrg · · Score: 4, Funny

    So does this mean that I am smart, or that I'm just dumb faster?

    Offtopic, but hilarious nonetheless:

    Max Power (Homer): Kids, there's three ways to do things. The right way, the wrong way, and the Max Power way!
    Bart: Isn't that the wrong way?
    Max Power: Yeah, but faster! (Max runs into a cactus)

  17. Obviously a confidence trick. by Sir+Pallas · · Score: 2

    1.) Tell people they might be stupid.
    2.) Give them a test that you invented that proves it.
    3.) No question here: you happen to sell the solution!
    4.) Profit!

    1. Re:Obviously a confidence trick. by Indras · · Score: 3, Insightful

      The scary thing is, this is exactly how the Church of Scientology recruits. They administer a free "Personality Test" to anyone who wants to take it. The test results ALWAYS have some "critical" flaw that is causing you to be unstable. If you don't fix it right away, you might just go insane. Fortunately, the Church has a remedy for your mental disease, if you just sign up for one of our free classes...

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  18. Hmm... by Draconix · · Score: 4, Funny

    We're Sorry

    The current version of the Brain Speed Test is only available for Windows based computers. We are working a version that is compatible with Mac's.

    Wow! Their brains are so fast they skipped over learning how to pluralize!

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  19. More correctly, by ScrewMaster · · Score: 2, Funny

    it measures the speed of electronic funds transfer, if you're foolish enough to actually buy that program.

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  20. Bah! by Godji · · Score: 2, Informative

    WTF?! The latency ( != speed ) of a certain brain subsystem is NOT brain speed. Why? Because, as far as I know, brain speed is not defined! That's like measuring computer speed: you could measure the performance of the computer/brain at a given task but that says nothing about its performance on a different task. What is computer speed? The frequency of the CPU, the efficiency of the CPU, the input/output throughput, or the RAM latency? The same problem holds for defining brain speed as well.

    Besides, being a somewhat experienced programmer (and by no means a guru), I could write the same program and release it for free (given the same amount of probably freely available scientific knowledge and a month or two of time). Why charge $500? If you ask me, they want to cover their rather low production costs with 5 sales or so...

    Also, what's that nonsense about improving something by testing it? Short of the exercise performed during the test, this makes no sense whatsoever!

  21. Re:I didnt know people still use shockwave? by Breakfast+Pants · · Score: 2, Insightful

    "According to CNet, a company named Posit Science has produced an online test using Flash that uses sounds to measure the speed of your brain down to the millisecond"
     
    I thought this was hilarious simply because I'm aware of latency to the soundcard due to buffering for mixing output, etc. and it varies on machines by hundreds of milliseconds.

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  22. Mouse use speed? by eMartin · · Score: 3, Interesting

    Why would this require using a mouse to click on two icons placed next to each other when that takes time itself?

    Wouldn't it make a lot more sense to map the input to two keys on a keyboard?

    I have to wonder about the validity of any kind of intelligence test that lacks common sense like that. Well, that and has the spelling mistakes that others noted.

    Or maybe I'm just upset that I got a 49.

    1. Re:Mouse use speed? by AlterTick · · Score: 3, Insightful
      Why would this require using a mouse to click on two icons placed next to each other when that takes time itself? Wouldn't it make a lot more sense to map the input to two keys on a keyboard? I have to wonder about the validity of any kind of intelligence test that lacks common sense like that.

      Well, first, it's not an intelligence test, but a test of auditory processing speed; and second, it doesn't matter how fast you click the arrows, only whether you click them in the correct order. Did you even read the instructions?

      Anyway, I question the seriousness of a test that's clearly there as a marketing aid for some dubious $500 "Brain Fitness" training software. Also, the fact that the best score they have recorded on their graph for ANY age group was 32, and I, a 37 year old Army vet with permanent "artillery ear" tinnitus, got 23.

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    2. Re:Mouse use speed? by Cylix · · Score: 2, Funny

      I managed an 87 (down from 100).

      It's official...

      I'm clinically retarded.

      On the bright side, I think I qualify for better parking.

      I'll probably try it again later... I'm just a bit exhausted right now and I keep making mistakes.

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