The analysis of the cognitive function parameters in exposure to noise using emotiv-EPOC electroencephalography headset

Aim: Exposure to noise in different work and nonwork places is considered to be a problem. Noises impertinent to professional duties are highly dangerous to the safety, efficiency, and personal health of an individual. This study aims to analyze the electroencephalography (EEG) signals to reveal the effect of produced noises in a laboratory environment on the cognitive function of the brain. Materials and Methods: In this case/control study, the sample volume was determined based on similar studies and previous researches of 20 individuals. Fifty percentage of the individuals were male and the other half were female. Initially, the EEG device was connected to the students' heads. The duration of this test was 8 min; the student took it a number of times, while his cognitive performance was measured with the EEG device in the midst and at the end of the test. The fulfillment of cognitive duties (the daily quota of lessons) and the n-back test took place for the cohort in an environment in which a simulated noise was provided. Results: The age average in boys and girls were respectively 24 ± 4.2 and 23 ± 3.5. The results demonstrated that cognitive parameters of concentration, excitement, anxiety, calmness, commitment, and interest in exposure to low-frequency sound using an EEG Emotiv EPOC headset in different intervals. The parameters of commitment, concentration, and calmness decreased as the allotted time increased, and only the fall in commitment parameter was significant (P = 0.006). Conclusion: The findings of the present study demonstrate that the decrease in cognitive performance and brain signals in exposure to 85 dB noise was significant. This could have also been caused by psycho-acoustic factors such as sound level, tonality, duration of exposition, and the type of sound. In relation to exposure time, results have shown that in the presence of loud noise and in comparison, to quietude, the average response time to stimulants increase (slower response).