Abstract
Thresholds for detecting linear motion (self-motion) increased following exposure of human observers to sustained linear oscillation (fatiguing stimulus) at 0.26 Hz and approximately 0.5 G peak-to-peak for durations up to 30 min. Recovery to preexposure levels took place over a period of 10 to 15 rain following the sustained oscillation termination. Differences in threshold shift magnitudes following sustained oscillation in various orientations support the interpretation that the observed threshold shifts resulted from fatigue of the utricular otolith receptors. Threshold shifts were not obtained following exposure of the human observers to sustained, unidirectional linear acceleration (2 G) for durations up to 10 rain with a centrifuge. The results of this study suggest a previously unobserved response property of the otolith organs, namely, that these organs can be fatigued in a manner analogous to other receptor systems.
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This investigation was supported by funds from Contract F3361575C5029 between the United States Air Force and Miami University, Contract NAS 914538 between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Miami University, and the Miami University Faculty Research Committee. We thank F. E. Guedry, C. S. Harris, and H. Schóne for their comments on a preliminary draft of this paper.
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Parker, D.E., Gulledge, W.L., Tubbs, R.L. et al. A temporary threshold shift for self-motion detection following sustained, oscillating linear acceleration. Perception & Psychophysics 23, 461–467 (1978). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199520
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199520