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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Rett Syndrome | Research article

The role of a virtual avatar in attention and memory tasks in Rett syndrome

Authors: Rosa Angela Fabio, Giorgia Pergolizzi, Andrea Nucita, Giancarlo Iannizzotto, Tindara Caprì

Published in: BMC Neurology | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

Since subjects with Rett syndrome (RTT) focus their attention mainly on the faces of people with whom they interact, in this study the role of a human-like smart interactive agent (an avatar) in enhancing cognitive processes is examined. More in depth, this study aimed to understand if, and to what extent, the use of an avatar can improve attention and memory abilities in subjects with RTT.

Method

Thirty-six subjects with RTT participated in the study. All participants performed over-selectivity and memory tasks, for a total of six trials. These trials were randomly presented in two different conditions: with and without virtual avatar.

Results

The results indicated that the participants improved their attention and memory abilities when they performed the tasks with the avatar. There were no improvements when they performed the tasks without the avatar.

Discussion

The results were discussed considering the relationship between motivation, attention and memory in RTT.

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Title: The role of a virtual avatar in attention and memory tasks in Rett syndrome
Authors: Rosa Angela Fabio
Giorgia Pergolizzi
Andrea Nucita
Giancarlo Iannizzotto
Tindara Caprì
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keyword: Rett Syndrome
Published in: BMC Neurology / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2377
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-021-02212-w

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Springer Medicine

The role of a virtual avatar in attention and memory tasks in Rett syndrome

Abstract

Background

Method

Results

Discussion

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Method

Results

Discussion

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