We investigated a relationship between auditory training for audio engineers and its influence on auditory selective attention performance. One of main tasks for audio engineers is to segregate multiple auditory streams, apply optimal signal processing for each stream and integrate those process streams into a coherent sonic object with the best quality. Therefore, auditory engineering training essentially involves the complex cognitive process of auditory selective attention. In this study, we conducted a controlled study that compared listeners’ auditory selective attention based on their amount of audio engineering training. The result shows that the group trained with the closed-loop and audio-motor training paradigm significantly improved performance of identifying speech, but not the control group who received a general training. The results implicate that a gamified audio engineering training can serve as a supportive tool to improve adult’s auditory selective attention performance.

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) is luminescence triggered by electrochemical reactions at the surface of the electrode. We have developed ECL systems that visualize oxygen consumption and secretion of biological cells. In the session, evaluation of model cell membrane with the ECL system will also be discussed.

Through the cooperation with National Taiwan University by RIEC Cooperation Project Research, we have been working on estimating mental states of learners to improve education system as one of several collaboration with researchers between NTU and Tohoku U. Knowing engagement levels while studying is important to improve teaching methods. We investigated whether facial expressions can be used to estimate mental states of learners during learning, conducting experiments to measure behavioral indexes related to learning processes. Our attempts with machine learning methods succeeded to predict learning related behaviors from facial expressions. This indicates that there is close relationship between facial expressions and mental states.